[Buggins]

Thanks again for your replies Anton. I'm sure I speak for everyone on this forum who appreciate your essential tidbits of information.

By the way, I'm in New Zealand and there is a world renowned warbirds group here who have restored 5 Polikarpov I-16s to original flying condition. The planes were all sourced from Russia (of course) and it is simply breathtaking to see them fly. Tricky aircraft to land! Anton, I was wondering if the Russian aviation community knows much about this, as they are the only flying examples in the world, so there must be a huge sense of pride to see those tough little fighters in the air again. Can't wait to fly one myself in Birds of Prey.