Complete Specs & Data on BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika | Aircraft Database

The BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika is a Soviet amphibious aircraft designed by the Beriev Design Bureau and manufactured by the Irkutsk Aviation Plant. It is a twin-engine, high-wing aircraft with a distinctive gull wing design. The Be-12 was developed for the Soviet Navy to perform maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, and search and rescue operations. It entered service in 1960 and remains in service with the Russian Navy today.

The Be-12 is a versatile aircraft that can operate from both land and water. It has a long range and endurance, making it ideal for long-range patrols and search and rescue operations. The aircraft is also equipped with a variety of sensors and weapons, including radar, sonar, and torpedoes. The Be-12 has been used in a variety of roles, including maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and electronic intelligence.

Main Article Topics

Design and development
Operational history
Variants
Operators
Specifications

BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika Specs

Dimensions: 30.1 m (98 ft 9 in) wingspan, 22.25 m (73 ft 0 in) length, 5.75 m (18 ft 10 in) height
Weight: 20,300 kg (44,750 lb) empty, 33,000 kg (72,750 lb) max takeoff
Performance: 550 km/h (342 mph) max speed, 460 km/h (286 mph) cruise speed, 6,000 km (3,730 mi) range, 10,500 m (34,450 ft) service ceiling
Armament: 4 x 23 mm NR-23 cannons, 4 x 57 mm S-5 unguided rockets, 2 x 450 mm torpedoes, or 2 x 500 kg (1,100 lb) bombs
Crew: 5
Variants: Be-12, Be-12PS, Be-12N, Be-12RR
Operators: Soviet Navy, Russian Navy, Ukrainian Navy

Dimensions

The dimensions of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika are an important aspect of its design and performance. The aircraft’s wingspan, length, and height all contribute to its overall size and weight, which in turn affect its speed, range, and maneuverability.

Wingspan: The Be-12’s wingspan of 30.1 m (98 ft 9 in) gives it a large surface area, which provides lift and allows the aircraft to fly. The gull wing design of the Be-12 also contributes to its stability and handling characteristics.
Length: The Be-12’s length of 22.25 m (73 ft 0 in) gives it a long fuselage, which provides space for the aircraft’s crew, passengers, and cargo. The length of the fuselage also affects the aircraft’s center of gravity and stability.
Height: The Be-12’s height of 5.75 m (18 ft 10 in) gives it a high profile, which makes it more visible to radar and other detection systems. However, the height of the aircraft also gives it a higher vantage point, which is beneficial for maritime patrol and search and rescue operations.

Overall, the dimensions of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika are an important aspect of its design and performance. The aircraft’s large wingspan, long fuselage, and high profile all contribute to its overall size and weight, which in turn affect its speed, range, and maneuverability.

Weight

The weight of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika is an important aspect of its design and performance. The aircraft’s weight affects its speed, range, maneuverability, and takeoff and landing performance.

Empty weight: The empty weight of the Be-12 is 20,300 kg (44,750 lb). This includes the weight of the aircraft’s structure, engines, and systems.
Maximum takeoff weight: The maximum takeoff weight of the Be-12 is 33,000 kg (72,750 lb). This includes the weight of the aircraft’s empty weight, fuel, payload, and crew.
Payload: The Be-12 can carry a payload of up to 12,700 kg (28,000 lb). This includes the weight of passengers, cargo, and weapons.
Range: The Be-12’s range is affected by its weight. A heavier aircraft will have a shorter range than a lighter aircraft.
Speed: The Be-12’s speed is also affected by its weight. A heavier aircraft will be slower than a lighter aircraft.
Maneuverability: The Be-12’s maneuverability is also affected by its weight. A heavier aircraft will be less maneuverable than a lighter aircraft.
Takeoff and landing performance: The Be-12’s takeoff and landing performance is also affected by its weight. A heavier aircraft will require a longer takeoff roll and landing distance than a lighter aircraft.

Overall, the weight of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika is an important factor to consider when operating the aircraft. The aircraft’s weight affects its speed, range, maneuverability, and takeoff and landing performance.

Performance

The performance specifications of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika are an important aspect of its design and capabilities. The aircraft’s performance is determined by a number of factors, including its engine power, aerodynamic design, and weight. The Be-12’s performance specifications are as follows:

Maximum speed: 550 km/h (342 mph)
Cruise speed: 460 km/h (286 mph)
Range: 6,000 km (3,730 mi)
Service ceiling: 10,500 m (34,450 ft)

These performance specifications make the Be-12 a versatile aircraft that is well-suited for a variety of roles, including maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and electronic intelligence.

The Be-12’s maximum speed of 550 km/h (342 mph) gives it the ability to intercept and engage fast-moving targets. The aircraft’s cruise speed of 460 km/h (286 mph) gives it a good balance of speed and fuel efficiency. The Be-12’s range of 6,000 km (3,730 mi) gives it the ability to patrol large areas of ocean without having to refuel. The aircraft’s service ceiling of 10,500 m (34,450 ft) gives it the ability to operate at high altitudes, which is beneficial for surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

Overall, the performance specifications of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika make it a valuable asset for a variety of maritime operations.

Armament

The armament of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika is an important aspect of its design and capabilities. The aircraft’s armament allows it to perform a variety of roles, including maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and electronic intelligence.

Anti-air warfare: The Be-12’s 4 x 23 mm NR-23 cannons are primarily used for anti-air warfare. The cannons are mounted in a dorsal turret and are capable of firing at a rate of 850 rounds per minute. The cannons are effective against both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.
Anti-ship warfare: The Be-12’s 4 x 57 mm S-5 unguided rockets are primarily used for anti-ship warfare. The rockets are mounted in pods under the aircraft’s wings and are capable of penetrating the armor of most ships. The rockets are also effective against land targets.
Anti-submarine warfare: The Be-12’s 2 x 450 mm torpedoes are primarily used for anti-submarine warfare. The torpedoes are mounted in a weapons bay in the aircraft’s fuselage and are capable of homing in on enemy submarines. The torpedoes are also effective against surface targets.
Bombing: The Be-12’s 2 x 500 kg (1,100 lb) bombs are primarily used for bombing missions. The bombs are mounted in a weapons bay in the aircraft’s fuselage and are capable of destroying a variety of targets, including buildings, bridges, and ships. The bombs are also effective against personnel.

The armament of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika makes it a versatile aircraft that is well-suited for a variety of roles. The aircraft’s armament allows it to engage a variety of targets, both in the air and on the ground.

Crew

The crew of a BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika consists of five members: two pilots, a navigator, a flight engineer, and a radio operator. Each crew member has a specific role to play in the operation of the aircraft.

Pilots: The pilots are responsible for flying the aircraft. They control the aircraft’s flight path, altitude, and speed. They also monitor the aircraft’s systems and make decisions about how to respond to emergencies.
Navigator: The navigator is responsible for planning and navigating the aircraft’s flight path. They use maps, charts, and other navigational aids to determine the aircraft’s position and course. They also work with the pilots to ensure that the aircraft is on track and on schedule.
Flight engineer: The flight engineer is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the aircraft’s systems. They ensure that the aircraft’s engines, electrical systems, and other systems are operating properly. They also troubleshoot any problems that may arise with the aircraft’s systems.
Radio operator: The radio operator is responsible for communicating with other aircraft, ground stations, and ships. They also operate the aircraft’s radar and other electronic equipment.

The crew of a BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika is a highly trained and experienced team. They work together to ensure that the aircraft is operated safely and efficiently.

Variants

The BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika has four main variants: the Be-12, Be-12PS, Be-12N, and Be-12RR. Each variant has its own unique set of specifications and capabilities, which are tailored to meet the specific requirements of different missions.

The Be-12 is the base variant of the Tchaika. It is a general-purpose maritime patrol aircraft that can be used for a variety of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and electronic intelligence. The Be-12 is equipped with a variety of sensors and weapons, including radar, sonar, and torpedoes.

The Be-12PS is a specialized anti-submarine warfare variant of the Tchaika. It is equipped with a more powerful radar and sonar system than the Be-12, as well as a variety of anti-submarine weapons, including depth charges and torpedoes. The Be-12PS is also equipped with a magnetic anomaly detector, which can be used to locate submarines that are submerged.

The Be-12N is a specialized search and rescue variant of the Tchaika. It is equipped with a variety of search and rescue equipment, including life rafts, medical supplies, and a searchlight. The Be-12N also has a large cabin that can accommodate up to 12 survivors.

The Be-12RR is a specialized electronic intelligence variant of the Tchaika. It is equipped with a variety of electronic intelligence equipment, including radar, sonar, and communications intercept systems. The Be-12RR is used to collect intelligence on foreign military forces and to monitor their activities.

The different variants of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika are an important part of the aircraft’s specifications. Each variant has its own unique set of capabilities, which makes it well-suited for a variety of missions. The Be-12 Tchaika is a versatile aircraft that can be used for a wide range of maritime operations.

Operators

The operators of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika are an important aspect of its specifications because they determine the aircraft’s mission and operational requirements. The Soviet Navy, Russian Navy, and Ukrainian Navy have all operated the Be-12 Tchaika for a variety of purposes, including maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and electronic intelligence.

The Soviet Navy was the original operator of the Be-12 Tchaika, and it used the aircraft extensively during the Cold War. The Be-12 was a valuable asset to the Soviet Navy because of its long range and endurance, which allowed it to patrol vast areas of ocean. The aircraft was also equipped with a variety of sensors and weapons, which made it well-suited for anti-submarine warfare and search and rescue operations.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Be-12 Tchaika was inherited by the Russian Navy and the Ukrainian Navy. The Russian Navy continues to operate the Be-12 Tchaika for maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare missions. The Ukrainian Navy also operates the Be-12 Tchaika, but it has primarily been used for search and rescue operations.

The different operators of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika have had a significant impact on the aircraft’s specifications. The Soviet Navy’s need for a long-range, endurance aircraft led to the development of the Be-12’s distinctive gull wing design. The Russian Navy’s continued use of the Be-12 for anti-submarine warfare missions has resulted in the development of new sensors and weapons for the aircraft. The Ukrainian Navy’s use of the Be-12 for search and rescue operations has led to the development of new search and rescue equipment for the aircraft.

Overall, the operators of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika have played a major role in shaping the aircraft’s specifications. The aircraft’s design and capabilities have been tailored to meet the specific requirements of the Soviet Navy, Russian Navy, and Ukrainian Navy.

FAQs on “BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika Specs”

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika’s specifications.

Question 1: What are the dimensions of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika?

Answer: The Be-12 Tchaika has a wingspan of 30.1 m (98 ft 9 in), a length of 22.25 m (73 ft 0 in), and a height of 5.75 m (18 ft 10 in).

Question 2: What is the weight of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika?

Answer: The empty weight of the Be-12 Tchaika is 20,300 kg (44,750 lb), and its maximum takeoff weight is 33,000 kg (72,750 lb).

Question 3: What is the performance of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika?

Answer: The Be-12 Tchaika has a maximum speed of 550 km/h (342 mph), a cruise speed of 460 km/h (286 mph), a range of 6,000 km (3,730 mi), and a service ceiling of 10,500 m (34,450 ft).

Question 4: What is the armament of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika?

Answer: The Be-12 Tchaika is armed with 4 x 23 mm NR-23 cannons, 4 x 57 mm S-5 unguided rockets, 2 x 450 mm torpedoes, or 2 x 500 kg (1,100 lb) bombs.

Question 5: What is the crew of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika?

Answer: The Be-12 Tchaika has a crew of five, consisting of two pilots, a navigator, a flight engineer, and a radio operator.

Question 6: Who are the operators of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika?

Answer: The Be-12 Tchaika has been operated by the Soviet Navy, Russian Navy, and Ukrainian Navy.

These FAQs provide a comprehensive overview of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika’s specifications.

Transitioning to the next article section…

Tips on “BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika Specs”

Effective utilization of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika’s specifications requires a thorough understanding of its capabilities and limitations. Here are several tips to optimize your knowledge and enhance operational outcomes:

Tip 1: Familiarize yourself with the aircraft’s dimensions and weight.

Grasping the Be-12 Tchaika’s physical parameters is crucial for efficient operation. Its dimensions influence factors such as maneuverability and storage requirements, while its weight affects takeoff and landing performance.

Tip 2: Understand the aircraft’s performance envelope.

The Be-12 Tchaika’s performance specifications, including speed, range, and endurance, are critical considerations for mission planning. Understanding these parameters ensures optimal utilization of the aircraft’s capabilities.

Tip 3: Study the aircraft’s armament.

The Be-12 Tchaika’s armament options provide versatility for various mission profiles. Familiarize yourself with the capabilities and limitations of each weapon system to effectively engage different targets.

Tip 4: Train your crew thoroughly.

A well-trained crew is essential for maximizing the Be-12 Tchaika’s capabilities. Ensure your crew is proficient in operating the aircraft’s systems, employing its sensors and weapons, and responding to emergencies.

Tip 5: Utilize maintenance and inspection schedules.

Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial for maintaining the Be-12 Tchaika’s airworthiness and performance. Adhere to established schedules to prevent malfunctions and ensure the aircraft’s reliability.

By following these tips, you can harness the full potential of the BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika and achieve mission success in various operational scenarios.

Conclusion

The BERIEV Be-12 Tchaika is a versatile and capable aircraft that has served a variety of roles for the Soviet Navy, Russian Navy, and Ukrainian Navy. Its unique design and impressive specifications make it well-suited for maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and electronic intelligence missions. The Be-12 Tchaika has a long and distinguished history, and it continues to be an important part of the Russian and Ukrainian navies today.

The Be-12 Tchaika’s specifications are a testament to the skill and ingenuity of the Soviet engineers who designed it. The aircraft’s long range, endurance, and armament make it a valuable asset to any navy. The Be-12 Tchaika is a powerful symbol of Soviet and Russian naval aviation, and it is sure to continue to play an important role in the defense of both countries for many years to come.