The Yakovlev Yak-11 “Moose” (a United Nations Designation), went into service with the Russian Air Force in 1946 as a high-performance two-place advanced trainer. As a military airplane it was very successful, with a long production run and an excellent service record. The airplane was used by several of the Iron Curtain nations, and was even produced outside of Russia. The small wings and high empty weight give the Yak-11 a high landing speed, but this high wing loading also contributes to the airplane’s high cruise and top speed. Two of the few that have been imported to the United States have been converted to larger American engines and raced at the National Championship Air Races in Reno, Nevada. Part of their conversions resulted in smaller canopies and single-place seating arrangements. With its elegant lines and sharply tapered wings, the type is admired by warbird aficionados worldwide.
YAKOVLEV Yak-11
