If there’s one place where the massive gap between Russia and Ukraine’s military capabilities is painfully clear, it’s in the skies. With a tiny and outdated air force, Ukraine has had to scramble and use every trick in the book to fend off Russian air threats.
One of the most unconventional solutions has been the Yakovlev Yak-52, an old Soviet propeller trainer aircraft from the 1970s, never meant to see combat. Despite its age, this rugged plane was built to take off from dirt runways and survive the harshest conditions, proving its versatility and toughness.
Now, with few options left, the Ukrainian Armed Forces are deploying these nearly obsolete trainers to intercept Russian attacks over Ukraine. There’s just one hitch – the Yakovlev Yak-52 isn’t equipped with a single weapon system.
Yet, Ukraine refuses to back down. In a jaw-dropping high-altitude video recently posted on social media, a Ukrainian Yak-52 is seen banking hard as it chases a Russian drone intruding into Ukrainian airspace. Behind the pilot, with the canopy thrown open, sits the gunner. He doesn’t need a fuselage-mounted cannon; he’s wielding his own firearm, ready to take down the high-tech drone, old-school style.
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