Yakovlev Yak-55

The Yakovlev Yak‑55 is a single‑seat aerobatic aircraft developed in the Soviet Union during the early 1980s. Designed by the Yakovlev Design Bureau to replace the older Yak‑52 in competition, the prototype first flew on 30 April 1981 and entered production shortly thereafter. Powered by a 268 kW (360 hp) Vedeneyev M14P nine‑cylinder radial engine, the Yak‑55 features a compact low‑wing monoplane layout, all‑metal stressed‑skin construction and a symmetrical airfoil that gives equal performance upright and inverted. Its large ailerons, balanced elevators and a robust steel‑tube fuselage enable extreme rolls, loops and snap maneuvers at sustained +10 g and –10 g limits. The aircraft’s lightweight design—dry weight under 900 kg—and a fuel capacity of 215 L provide a favorable power‑to‑weight ratio essential for precision aerobatics. Since its debut, the Yak‑55 has become a staple at international air‑show competitions, winning several World Aerobatic Championships and inspiring later variants such as the Yak‑55M and Yak‑55U. Its blend of Soviet engineering, exceptional maneuverability and reliable power has cemented the Yak‑55 as a benchmark in the evolution of modern competition aerobatics. Today many aerobatic training schools worldwide use the Yak‑55 to teach advanced pilot techniques, and its airframe continues to be supported by an active enthusiast community.

Yakovlev

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