THE RED GAMBIT SERIES

In Impasse, Djorov told the Mikoyan engineers (Arunshan, I believe) to perhaps build the Soviet AF some Me 262s. Will they do it? If so, would they have the same armaments as the original German versions, or would they have Soviet weapons? Also, would they continue to improve and perfect the new MiG jet design?

Before I started on RG, it had been my intent to get the Soviets to produce 262s. Once I researched the matter, I felt that reverse engineering was simply beyond them during the time frame, and that advancing other aircraft, excusing early arrival because of the war conditions that continued to exist, was the best alternative. There will be 262s and have been 262s flying for the Soviet Air Force, but it is important to remember that it was not the world beater many see it as. Its record in air-to-air combat against piston engined allied fighters was not good. It was ok as a bomber interceptor.

gee_colin@yahoo.co.uk at July 16, 2014 at 12:42 PM

Before I started on RG, it had been my intent to get the Soviets to produce 262s. Once I researched the matter, I felt that reverse engineering was simply beyond them during the time frame, and that advancing other aircraft, excusing early arrival because of the war conditions that continued to exist, was the best alternative. There will be 262s and have been 262s flying for the Soviet Air Force, but it is important to remember that it was not the world beater many see it as. Its record in air-to-air combat against piston engined allied fighters was not good. It was ok as a bomber interceptor.

Still, wouldn't the Sovs have captured some of the plans of the 262, and maybe some of the people who designed it? The Sovs would be particularly interested in a bomber interceptor what with the B-29s coming. While Hooten's sabotage of the Dutch airfield destroyed a number of the bombers, and bought the Soviets more time, the US will be interested in making and sending new replacements as quickly as possible. What do you think the Soviet Air Force will do to try to counter the new American super bomber?

I don't doubt they would, and Ive just writen something concerning that in book#5. the Soviets will take whatever they can get of course, and any 262s capable of flying may get a run out. the new generation of aircraft will keep the pot boiling whilst other types are developed. Have no fear, B29s and more are winging their way to Europe as I write.