What was the primary objective behind the development of the Myasishchev M-4 Molot bomber?

The primary objective behind the development of the Myasishchev M-4 Molot bomber was to create a strategic bomber for the Soviet Long Range Aviation capable of reaching targets in North America. This was a key part of the Soviet Union's Cold War strategy to project power against the United States.

What was the USAF/DoD reporting name assigned to the Myasishchev M-4 bomber?

The USAF/DoD reporting name assigned to the Myasishchev M-4 bomber was Bison. This designation was part of a system used by the United States to identify Soviet aircraft during the Cold War.

What specific role did the M-4 and its successor, the 3M, primarily fulfill in their later years of service?

In their later years of service, the M-4 and 3M aircraft were primarily repurposed as long-range maritime reconnaissance and strike aircraft. Most were later converted into tanker aircraft for aerial refueling operations.

How did the public display of 18 M-4 aircraft on May Day 1954 impact the United States' perception of Soviet air power?

The public display of 18 M-4 aircraft on May Day 1954 surprised the United States, as they were unaware the Soviets possessed such a jet bomber. This event fueled fears of a bomber gap, leading the US to accelerate its own bomber production, such as the B-47 and B-52.

What was the Soviet Union's initial strategy for developing a long-range strategic bomber after World War II, and what aircraft served as a stop-gap?

Following World War II, the Soviet Union initially prioritized developing a long-range strategic bomber by reverse-engineering the American B-29 Superfortress to create the Tupolev Tu-4. This aircraft served as a stop-gap solution while a more advanced jet bomber was developed.

Why was the Tupolev Tu-4 considered only a temporary solution for Soviet long-range bombing needs?

The Tupolev Tu-4 was considered a temporary solution because, unlike American bombers that could operate from bases near the USSR, it lacked the range to reach the continental United States. Furthermore, experiences in the Korean War showed that piston-engine bombers were highly vulnerable to jet fighter interception.

Who was Vladimir Mikhailovich Myasishchev, and what was his primary directive regarding the development of a new strategic bomber?

Vladimir Mikhailovich Myasishchev was the designer tasked by the Soviet Union in the spring of 1951 to construct a *strategichesky dalny bombardirovshchik* (SDB), or strategic long-range bomber. This directive aimed to counter the advancements in Western jet bombers.

When did the first prototype of the M-4 take flight, and what year did it officially enter service?

The first M-4 prototype flew on January 20, 1953. It was handed over for state acceptance trials in March 1954 and entered service in 1955.

What were the primary construction materials used for the Myasishchev M-4?

The Myasishchev M-4 was constructed primarily from aircraft aluminum alloys, with the inclusion of some steel and magnesium components.

What were the four Mikulin AM-3A turbojet engines used in the early M-4 rated for in terms of thrust?

The four Mikulin AM-3A turbojet engines used in the early M-4 were rated for a maximum thrust of 85.8 kN (8,750 kgf or 19,290 lbf) each.

What was the specified range target for the M-4, and how did its actual operational range compare?

The M-4 was initially specified to have a range of 12,000 km (7,500 mi). However, its actual operational range was approximately 9,500 km (5,900 mi), falling short of the requirement.

Describe the defensive armament configuration of the M-4 bomber, including the types and locations of cannons.

The M-4's defensive armament consisted of six 23 mm cannons. These were typically configured as two cannons in a manned twin tail turret with 400 rounds per gun, and two twin remote-controlled turrets (one dorsal, one ventral) each with 300 rounds per gun.

What was the typical crew complement for the Myasishchev M-4, and what were their general roles?

The M-4 typically had a crew of eight. These included a navigator/bombardier in the nose, pilot and copilot in the cockpit, a radar operator/navigator and flight engineer/gunner in a compartment behind the cockpit, a radio operator/gunner, and a tail gunner.

How did the 3M variant represent an improvement over the original M-4 design, particularly concerning its engines and range?

The 3M variant improved upon the M-4 by using four more fuel-efficient Dobrynin RD-7 turbojets and incorporating a nose inflight refueling probe. These changes aimed to increase its operational range and effectiveness.

What aerodynamic and structural modifications were incorporated into the 3M variant to enhance its performance?

The 3M variant featured a redesigned center fuselage to reduce weight and improve aerodynamics, along with wings that had a wider span and area. These modifications contributed to better performance compared to the original M-4.

When did the Soviet Union begin exploring inflight refueling (IFR) capabilities for the M-4, and why was it necessary?

The Soviet Union began investigating inflight refueling (IFR) for the M-4 in 1955, shortly after the aircraft's range shortfall became apparent. This was a crucial step to extend the bomber's operational reach.

How were the M-4 and 3M aircraft eventually converted into tanker aircraft for aerial refueling?

The M-4 and 3M aircraft were converted into tanker aircraft by fitting them with a hose-drum unit (HDU) and additional fuel tanks, typically in the bomb bay. Defensive armament was usually removed during these conversions.

What was the initial public unveiling of the M-4, and what was the significant surprise it presented to the West?

The M-4 was first publicly displayed in Red Square on May Day, 1954. Its appearance was a surprise to the United States, as they had not previously known about the existence of a Soviet jet bomber of this class.

What was the 'bomber gap' scare of the mid-1950s, and how did the Central Intelligence Agency's estimates contribute to it?

The bomber gap scare was a period in the mid-1950s when the United States feared the Soviet Union possessed a significantly larger fleet of strategic bombers than it actually did. This fear was exacerbated by inflated estimates from the Central Intelligence Agency, partly based on Soviet propaganda displays like the M-4 flyby, which led to a perceived strategic imbalance.

Despite its limitations as a strategic bomber, what crucial role did the 3M variant fulfill for the Soviet Naval Aviation?

Although the 3M variant still could not effectively bomb targets like Washington D.C., it possessed sufficient range to serve as a long-range maritime patrol aircraft for the Soviet Naval Aviation, a critical role in monitoring naval activities.

What significant world records did the 3M variant achieve in 1959 related to payload and altitude?

In 1959, the 3M variant broke several world records for payload-to-altitude capabilities. These included lifting 10,000 kg to 15,317 meters and 55,220 kg to 2,000 meters.

How did Western intelligence agencies' perceptions of the M-4's capabilities differ from its actual performance, and for how long did this misconception persist?

Western intelligence agencies vastly overestimated the capability of the M-4, often mistaking the improved 3M variant for the original M-4. This misconception persisted until 1961, leading to an inflated view of the Soviet bomber threat.

What was the 'Bison-C' variant, and what distinguished it from earlier models?

The Bison-C was an early 1960s variant of the M-4/3M family that featured a specialized search radar. It represented a further development in the aircraft's reconnaissance and targeting capabilities.

Did the Myasishchev M-4 or 3M bombers ever engage in combat operations?

No, neither the Myasishchev M-4 nor the 3M bombers ever saw combat. They were primarily designed for strategic deterrence and later adapted for support roles.

When did the production of all Bison aircraft variants conclude, and what was the total number built?

Production of the Bison aircraft variants ceased in 1963. In total, 125 aircraft, encompassing both M-4 and 3M versions, were produced.

What happened to most of the retired Myasishchev M-4 and 3M airframes following the Cold War?

Following the Cold War, the vast majority of the retired Myasishchev M-4 and 3M airframes were broken up as part of arms limitation agreements between nations.

What was the purpose of the Myasishchev VM-T aircraft, and what modifications were made to convert them from 3MN-2 tankers?

The Myasishchev VM-T was a heavy lift transport aircraft designed to carry large, oversized cargo externally, notably components for the Buran space shuttle and Energia rocket. To convert them from 3MN-2 tankers, they received a large cargo pod supported by struts above the fuselage and modified tail fins for improved control.

What was the in-house designation used by Myasishchev for the M-4 program?

The in-house designation used by Myasishchev for the M-4 program was Izdeliye M, which translates to Product M. It was also referred to internally as Project 25.

What does the designation SDB represent in the context of the M-4's development?

SDB stands for *strategichesky dalny bombardirovshchik*, a Russian term that translates to 'strategic long-range bomber.' This designation was used by the Soviet government for the program that produced the M-4.

What was the NATO reporting name for the mass-produced M-4 bomber?

The NATO reporting name for the mass-produced M-4 bomber was Bison-A. NATO assigned codenames to Soviet aircraft to facilitate identification and reporting during the Cold War.

What was the NATO reporting name for the improved 3M variant?

The NATO reporting name for the improved 3M variant was Bison-B. This designation distinguished it from the earlier Bison-A model.

What was the NATO reporting name for the 3MD variant, and what was its primary role?

The NATO reporting name for the 3MD variant was Bison-C. This version was specifically designed as a cruise missile carrying aircraft.

What was the intended purpose of the projected Myasishchev 3M-A variant?

The projected Myasishchev 3M-A variant was intended to be a nuclear-powered reconnaissance aircraft. It was designed to utilize an indirect heat transfer reactor to power turbines and house the crew in a heavily shielded cockpit.

What was the proposed configuration for the Myasishchev 3M-M variant?

The Myasishchev 3M-M variant was proposed as a naval version featuring a boat-hulled fuselage and floats under the wingtips, suggesting a seaplane configuration.

Which Soviet military branches operated the M-4 and 3M aircraft?

The M-4 and 3M aircraft were operated by the Soviet Long Range Aviation (part of the Soviet Air Forces) and the Soviet Naval Aviation.

Which country continued to operate the M-4/3M aircraft after the dissolution of the Soviet Union?

The Russian Air Force continued to operate the M-4/3M aircraft after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

How many Myasishchev M-4/3M aircraft are currently preserved in museums or as static displays?

Four Myasishchev M-4/3M aircraft are known to survive and are preserved in museums or as static displays.

At which museum is the Myasishchev 3MD '30 Red' aircraft displayed?

The Myasishchev 3MD '30 Red' aircraft is displayed at the Central Russian Air Force Museum in Monino, Moscow Oblast.

What were the key dimensions of the M-4, including its length, wingspan, and height?

The Myasishchev M-4 had a length of 47.2 meters (154 ft 10 in), a wingspan of 50.5 meters (165 ft 8 in), and a height of 14.1 meters (46 ft 3 in).

What was the maximum takeoff weight specified for the M-4?

The maximum takeoff weight specified for the M-4 was 181,500 kg (400,139 lb).

What was the combat range and ferry range of the M-4 bomber?

The M-4 bomber had a combat range of approximately 5,600 km (3,500 mi) and a ferry range of about 8,100 km (5,000 mi).

What was the typical internal bomb load capacity of the M-4?

The M-4 typically carried 12,000 kilograms (26,000 lb) of internal stores. It could carry up to 24,000 kilograms (53,000 lb) in maximum configurations.

What types of cruise missiles could the M-4 potentially carry externally?

The M-4 could potentially carry up to four cruise missiles externally. The text mentions the KSR-5, P-6, and Kh-10 missiles in relation to variants like the 3MD.

What related aircraft is listed under 'Related development' in the 'See also' section?

The Myasishchev VM-T is listed under 'Related development' in the 'See also' section.

Name two comparable strategic bombers from the United States mentioned in the 'See also' section.

Two comparable strategic bombers from the United States mentioned in the 'See also' section are the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress and the Convair YB-60.

What is the title of the book by Yefim Gordon and Dimitriy Komissarov that details the Myasishchev M-4 and 3M?

The title of the book by Yefim Gordon and Dimitriy Komissarov that details the Myasishchev M-4 and 3M is 'Myasishchev M-4 and 3M'.

What media related to the Myasishchev 3M is available on Wikimedia Commons?

Wikimedia Commons has media related to the Myasishchev 3M, accessible through its category.

Myasishchev M-4 Wiki: The Myasishchev M-4: Soviet Strategic Ambition in the Jet Age

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Overview

Strategic Bomber Role

The Myasishchev M-4 Molot (Hammer), designated 'Type 37' by the USAF and codenamed 'Bison' by NATO, was a four-engine strategic bomber developed by the Soviet Union. Its primary objective was to provide Long Range Aviation with a bomber capable of reaching targets in North America.

Cold War Impact

Despite falling short of its intended range and operational effectiveness, the M-4's public debut in 1954, alongside 17 other aircraft, created significant alarm in the West. This perceived "bomber gap" prompted the United States to accelerate its own bomber production, including the Boeing B-47 and B-52, significantly shaping Cold War military strategy.

Evolution and Adaptation

Initial shortcomings in range led to crucial upgrades, including more efficient engines, inflight refueling capabilities, and revised avionics. As its strategic bombing role diminished, many M-4 and its successor, the 3M, were converted into vital tanker aircraft, extending their service life and utility well into the post-Cold War era.

Design & Engineering

Airframe and Propulsion

Constructed primarily from aluminum alloys with steel and magnesium components, the M-4 featured wings swept at 35 degrees. It was initially powered by four Mikulin AM-3A turbojets, later upgraded in the 3M variant to more fuel-efficient Dobrynin RD-7 turbojets. The aircraft housed a substantial internal fuel capacity across numerous tanks, though the initial range fell short of design specifications.

Armament & Payload

The M-4 was equipped with defensive armament, typically consisting of 23 mm cannons in dorsal, ventral, and tail barbettes. Its offensive capability included a significant internal bomb bay designed to carry up to 24 tonnes (26.4 tons) of ordnance, including nuclear and conventional bombs, or later, air-to-surface missiles.

Crew Configuration

A crew of eight managed the complex operations of the M-4. This included a navigator/bombardier in the nose, pilots in the cockpit, a radar operator/navigator and flight engineer/gunner in a compartment behind the cockpit, a radio operator/gunner, and a tail gunner, ensuring comprehensive coverage of navigation, flight control, and defensive systems.

Operational History & Context

Development and Debut

Following World War II, the Soviet Union sought a long-range bomber to counter Western capabilities. The M-4, designed by Vladimir Myasishchev, first flew in January 1953. Its public debut on May Day 1954, with 18 aircraft flying in formation, was a strategic deception that significantly overestimated Soviet bomber strength to Western intelligence agencies.

The Bomber Gap Scare

The impressive display led to the widely publicized "bomber gap" fears in the United States. This perceived threat spurred significant investment in American bomber programs and strategic defense initiatives, highlighting the psychological impact of Soviet military demonstrations during the Cold War.

Role Evolution

While initially intended as a strategic nuclear bomber, the M-4's range limitations led to its adaptation for maritime reconnaissance and strike roles, particularly for the Soviet Naval Aviation. The subsequent 3M variant, with improved engines and inflight refueling, offered enhanced capabilities. Ultimately, the majority of the fleet was converted into aerial refueling tankers, serving crucial support roles.

Variants & Developments

Prototypes & Early Models

The initial M-4 (Bison-A) served as the baseline. The '3M' variant represented a significant redesign, featuring more powerful and fuel-efficient engines, an inflight refueling probe, and aerodynamic improvements. Various sub-designations like 3MS and 3MN indicated engine configurations and avionics upgrades.

M-4: The initial mass-produced bomber variant (NATO: Bison-A).
3M: Improved variant with Dobrynin RD-7 engines and inflight refueling probe (NATO: Bison-B).
3MD: Cruise missile carrier variant (NATO: Bison-C).
3MS-1 / 3MN-1: Sub-variants of the 3M with different engine configurations or avionics.

Tanker Conversions

Recognizing the range limitations, numerous M-4 and 3M aircraft were converted into aerial refueling tankers. These variants, such as the M-4-2, 3MS-2, and 3MN-2, played a critical role in extending the operational reach of other Soviet long-range aircraft.

M-4-2: M-4 converted to tanker configuration.
3MS-2 / 3MN-2: 3M variants converted to tankers.

Specialized Transport

A unique development was the VM-T (Vladimir Myasishchev-Transportny), converted from 3MN-2 tankers. These aircraft were adapted for heavy cargo transport, notably carrying components for the Buran space shuttle and Energia rocket, demonstrating the airframe's versatility.

VM-T: Heavy lift transport aircraft derived from 3MN-2 tankers.

Projected Designs

Several ambitious projects were proposed but not fully realized, including nuclear-powered reconnaissance variants (3M-A), flying boat designs (3M-M), and advanced missile carriers. These concepts highlight the continuous pursuit of strategic capabilities within the Myasishchev design bureau.

3M-A: Projected nuclear-powered reconnaissance aircraft.
3M-M: Proposed flying boat variant.
3M-R: Proposed reconnaissance aircraft.
3M-K: Proposed missile-carrying strike aircraft.
3MP / 3M-T: Projected convertible tanker/bomber variants.
M-29: Projected airliner based on the M-4.

Specifications (M-4)

Performance Metrics

The M-4 was a large aircraft designed for long-range operations. Its specifications reflect the capabilities and limitations of Soviet aerospace engineering in the mid-20th century.

General Characteristics
Crew	8
Length	47.2 m (154 ft 10 in)
Wingspan	50.5 m (165 ft 8 in)
Height	14.1 m (46 ft 3 in)
Wing area	326.35 m² (3,512.8 sq ft)
Empty weight	79,700 kg (175,708 lb)
Gross weight	138,500 kg (305,340 lb)
Max takeoff weight	181,500 kg (400,139 lb)
Powerplant	4 × Mikulin AM-3A turbojets, 85.75 kN (19,280 lbf) thrust each

Performance
Maximum speed	947 km/h (588 mph, 511 kn)
Range	5,600 km (3,500 mi, 3,000 nmi)
Ferry range	8,100 km (5,000 mi, 4,400 nmi)
Service ceiling	11,000 m (36,000 ft)
Wing loading	425 kg/m² (87 lb/sq ft)
Thrust/weight	0.25

Armament
Guns	9 × 23 mm NR-23 cannon or 6 × 23 mm AM-23 cannon in ventral, dorsal and tail barbettes.
Missiles	Up to four cruise missiles carried externally.
Bombs	Typically 12,000 kilograms (26,000 lb) internal stores. Up to 24,000 kilograms (53,000 lb) including nuclear bombs, FAB-9000, FAB-5000, BRAB-6000, FAB-3000, FAB-500, or FAB-100 bombs.

Operators

Soviet Union & Russia

The M-4 and its variants were exclusively operated by the Soviet Union's armed forces. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, remaining aircraft passed to the Russian Air Force.

Soviet Union:
- Soviet Long Range Aviation, Soviet Air Forces
- Soviet Naval Aviation
Russia:
- Russian Air Force

Surviving Aircraft

Preserved Examples

Several Myasishchev M-4 and 3M aircraft have been preserved in museums, serving as tangible links to the era of strategic bomber development and the Cold War.

3MD '30 Red' (c/n 6302831): Central Russian Air Force Museum, Monino, Moscow Oblast.
M-4 '60 Red' (c/n 0301804): Long Range Aviation museum, Dyagilevo, Ryazan Oblast.
M-4 '63 Red' (c/n 5301518): Ukrainka Airbase, Amur Oblast.
3MS-2 '14 Red' (c/n 7300805): Engels-2 Airbase, Saratov Oblast.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Myasishchev M-4" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about myasishchev_m-4 while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

pittsburgh post-gazette

michigan–ohio state football rivalry

perushtitsa

livestock improvement corporation

chief of staff of the united states air force

prohibition in the united states

area codes 613 343 and 753

zoology

official hige dandism

clade

References

Myasishchev M-4 and 3M Yefim Gordon & Dimitriy Komissarov Page 238 Schiffer Publishing 2021. ISBN 9780764361821.

"Non-US Bomber listings." designation-systems.net. Retrieved: 19 May 2010.

The Myasishchev M-4 / 3M "Bison" & M-50 "Bounder". Air Vectors.net.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Myasishchev M-4 Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not military advice or endorsement. The information provided on this website is for historical and technical understanding only. It is not intended to glorify or promote any military hardware or conflict. Always consult official historical records and academic sources for comprehensive and verified information.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Myasishchev M-4

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

✈️ Strategic Bomber Role

💥 Cold War Impact

⛽ Evolution and Adaptation

Design & Engineering ⚙️

🏗️ Airframe and Propulsion

💣 Armament & Payload

🧑‍✈️ Crew Configuration

Operational History & Context 📜

🗓️ Development and Debut

🇺🇸 The Bomber Gap Scare

🔄 Role Evolution

Variants & Developments 🔧

🚀 Prototypes & Early Models

⛽ Tanker Conversions

🚚 Specialized Transport

💡 Projected Designs

Specifications (M-4) 📏

📊 Performance Metrics

Operators 🚩

🇷🇺 Soviet Union & Russia

Surviving Aircraft 🏛️

📍 Preserved Examples

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Strategic Bomber Role

Cold War Impact

Evolution and Adaptation

Design & Engineering

Airframe and Propulsion

Armament & Payload

Crew Configuration

Operational History & Context

Development and Debut

The Bomber Gap Scare

Role Evolution

Variants & Developments

Prototypes & Early Models

Tanker Conversions

Specialized Transport

Projected Designs

Specifications (M-4)

Performance Metrics

Operators

Soviet Union & Russia

Surviving Aircraft

Preserved Examples

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice