C-6bis • wp.archivoaereo.com

Table of Contents

Origins and Design

The C-6bis was a training dive bomber, designed by Herberts Cukurs and constructed in 1940. It stood out as the sole all-metal aircraft of its class ever built in Latvia. This particular model was developed based on the successful C-6 Tris Zvaigznes, an aircraft renowned for completing a flight to Japan.

Technical Evolution and Production

A significant upgrade for the C-6bis involved the installation of a new, more powerful engine. The Armaments Department of the Latvian Ministry of Defense had placed an order for the construction of a series of these aircraft, highlighting the potential and confidence in Cukurs’ design.

Flight Testing and Historical Context

Flight tests for the C-6bis were conducted by pilots from the 2nd Fighter Squadron, including Captain J. Balodis and Senior Lieutenants A. Graudiņš and A. Grants. These crucial flights concluded on June 7, 1940, just ten days before the Sovietization of Latvia, effectively ending this promising project.

Technical Specifications

Modification	C-6bis
Upper wingspan, m	11.00
Aircraft length, m	8.50
Aircraft height, m	2.40
Wing area, m2	12.80
Empty weight	680
Maximum takeoff weight	1340
Engine type	1 Piston engine Hispano Suiza 6
Power, hp	1 x 280
Maximum speed, km/h	440
Practical range, km	680
Practical ceiling, m	5800
Crew, crew members	2
Armament	several light bombs weighing up to 50 kg