RuAviation

On 10th February 1983, test pilot Yuri Mitikov made the first full-profile flight in the Yak-38M vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. This strike fighter was a thorough modernisation of the Yak-38, addressing the need for increased range, combat effectiveness, and improved aerodynamic performance.

Development of the Yak-38M commenced in 1980 when it became apparent that the Yak-38 did not fully meet military requirements. As part of the modernisation programme, significant changes were made to the power plant. The Soyuz Scientific Production Association (MNPO Soyuz), under the leadership of Oleg Favorsky, developed the R-28-300 lift-cruise engine based on the R-27V-300 engine, boasting a maximum horizontal thrust of 7,100 kgf and a vertical thrust of 6,700 kgf. Concurrently, the Rybinsk Design Bureau improved the parameters of the lift engines, increasing the thrust of the RD-38 to 3,250 kgf. These modifications significantly enhanced the aircraft’s flight performance.

In 1982, two Yak-38M prototypes were built. These featured the new engines and external fuel tanks, increasing both range and payload. In addition, the aircraft received a modified nose landing gear, improving handling during carrier landings. An expanded suite of equipment and armament also contributed to enhancing the machine’s combat effectiveness.

Factory trials of the Yak-38M commenced on 7th December 1982 and continued until 3rd June 1983. During the trials, the aircraft’s improved performance was verified, after which it was submitted for joint State Acceptance Trials. The results of these trials led to recommendations for the series production of the Yak-38M in late 1983. Phase “B” of the State Acceptance Trials concluded in June 1985, and the aircraft was accepted into service.

A key feature of the Yak-38M was the SK-EM forced ejection pilot escape system. This was designed to ensure pilot safety during vertical take-off and landing phases, where emergency situations could develop instantaneously. Automatic ejection was triggered when the aircraft reached specific angles of bank, dive, and pitch. The SK-EM received the relevant information from the integrated management system and its own sensors. The ejection system was deactivated if the angle of the lift-cruise engine nozzles exceeded 67° from the vertical.

The Yak-38M represented a logical progression in the development of carrier-based aviation in the USSR. Its introduction into service and operation from aircraft carriers confirmed the feasibility of creating effective VTOL aircraft. Despite limited operational use in combat, the Yak-38M was a significant step in the development of VTOL technologies and the creation of the more advanced Yak-141.