Construction Numbers of I-16s?
 

Is there a way to check the validity of the Construction Number of a particular I-16?

I have a photo of a belly landed I-16, photographed probably in the late Summer of 1941, with the c/n stencilled in white over the rear fuselage, the fin and the rudder. Also, a white, diamond shape logo is applied on the rudder top, which I assume is the constructor's logo. Unfortunately, no individual number was painted on the airframe.

The c/n appears to be 5210935. Would it be possible to find out the details of this particular 'Ishak'?

Thanks,

Re: Construction Numbers of I-16s?
 

Hello,

Yes, this I-16 was built by Factory No 21 in Gor'ky. It is an I-16 Type 5 (M-25A engine). 521 = Type 5, Factory No 21, and 0935 = aircraft number. I believe that it was built around 1936.

Lennart Andersson

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The c/n appears to be 5210935. Would it be possible to find out the details of this particular 'Ishak'?

Re: Construction Numbers of I-16s?
 

does the photo show a reflector gun-sight or a telescopic gun-sight?
is the canopy the forward-sliding version or the fixed type?

if this has a fixed canopy and reflector gun-sight then it was produced in 1938
although I am not 100% sure I think it is plane 35 in series 09 , indicating
late production.

also, what is this diamond-shaped logo ?
I've never seen anything like that on an I-16.

Re: Construction Numbers of I-16s?
 

Here is a scan of the photo and a detail view of the diamond shape logo on the rudder top.

Re: Construction Numbers of I-16s?
 

I am still mystified at the logo.
could it be a factory logo? or quality-control ?

the rails for the sliding canopy can be seen but this plane has a fixed windscreen. (with unpainted framing)

although the telescopic gun-sight is not visible it appears that the forward mount(s?) have been modified with a ring sight. this is consistent with the reflector gun-sight.

I'll have to examine the photo a little more to be sure of the exact colors used. (if you are interested)

Re: Construction Numbers of I-16s?
 

I would assume it's a factory logo, but it would be nice if someone could confirm it.

As for the other details you mentioned, it would be nice if you could share your thoughts with us.

Thanks,

Re: Construction Numbers of I-16s?
 

Hello!

For what it is worth.

I do remember seeing a logo painted by major overhaul maker on DOSAAF Wilga. Not a factory emblem (PZL), but something else. I suppose it was factory level major overhaul where aircraft life ("resurss") was extended. This was around year 1989, but perhaps similar practices were used earlier too?

Regards,

Kari

Re: Construction Numbers of I-16s?
 

I noticed the cowling was darker than the rest of the plane and at first I thought it might be black.
(a common paint scheme for early 'Moskas')
but after examining the photo a bit more I realized it was not dark enough to be black.
if the meaning of the logo means that this aircraft was repaired and/or rebuilt then it might also have been repainted also.
if that was the case then the green paint over the original black cowling (?) may have caused the green to appear darker than usual.

Re: Construction Numbers of I-16s?
 

Interesting theory. I will check my original print tonight and return with the details.

What I am really interested in is the operational side of the story, namely when and where was this particular 'Ishak' shot down, and which unit did she belong to. I)nfo about the pilot would be noce, too.
Also, what would be the explanation of the lack of a tactical number?