Russian drop tanks

[dimlee]

Short answer is: yes, they did exist in the Soviet Air Force.
Long answer is more complicated. Drop tanks were used when/where necessary, for example, in the Northern Fleet and the Baltic Fleet aviation units (I-16, P-39, P-40, Yak-1, LaGG-3). Apparently there was less demand for them in the units deployed for support of ground troops.
LaGG-3 series 11 did carry external tanks (not experimental) but hard points were removed eventually.
I recall drop tanks mentioned on Yak-9 in Black Sea.
Can not remember anything about their usage on La-5 and La-7.

[greybeard1]

Originally Posted by dimlee

Drop tanks were used when/where necessary, for example, in the Northern Fleet and the Baltic Fleet aviation units (I-16, P-39, P-40, Yak-1, LaGG-3).

Oh, yes, of course! I forgot I-16 (I recall to have seen some photo) and lend-lease (having presumably their original drop tanks). Didn't know about Yak-1 and LaGG-3.

I recall drop tanks mentioned on Yak-9 in Black Sea.

Curious, given the already long range of the Yak-9, not to mention the availability of the Yak-9DD.

Can not remember anything about their usage on La-5 and La-7.

Funny! Almost the sole having drop tanks in game!

Thank you very much for your exhaustive reply!