Lisunov Li-2 facts for kids

Lisunov Li-2

The Lisunov Li-2 (called Лисунов Ли-2 in Russian) was a famous transport airplane. It was built in the Soviet Union by a team led by Boris Lisunov. This aircraft was very important for carrying people and supplies. It also played a big role in many historical events.

What is the Lisunov Li-2?

The Li-2 was a special airplane. It was a version of the American Douglas DC-3 aircraft. The Soviet Union bought a license to build the DC-3. This meant they had permission to make their own versions. Boris Lisunov helped change the American design for Soviet needs.

How the Li-2 was Built

The first Li-2 planes were made in 1939. They were built in a factory near Moscow. The team made some changes to the original DC-3 design. For example, they used different engines. They also changed some parts to fit Soviet standards.

Key Features of the Li-2

The Li-2 was a strong and reliable plane. It had two powerful engines. These engines were mounted on its low wings. The plane could carry a lot of weight. It was known for being able to land and take off from many different places.

What Was the Li-2 Used For?

The Lisunov Li-2 was a very busy airplane. It had many important jobs. It served both military and civilian purposes.

During World War II

The Li-2 was a hero during World War II. It helped the Soviet military in many ways.

• Transporting Soldiers: It carried troops and supplies to the front lines.
• Dropping Paratroopers: It was used to drop paratroopers behind enemy lines.
• Medical Flights: It brought wounded soldiers back from battles.
• Supplying Partisans: It delivered food and weapons to resistance fighters.

After the War

After World War II, the Li-2 continued to be useful. Many planes were changed for civilian use.

• Passenger Flights: They carried people for the Soviet airline, Aeroflot.
• Cargo Transport: They moved goods across the country.
• Other Countries: Some Li-2s were also used by other countries. These included China and several Eastern European nations.

Legacy of the Li-2

The Lisunov Li-2 was a very important aircraft. It helped the Soviet Union during a difficult time. It also helped build air travel after the war. Many people remember it as a symbol of Soviet aviation. Some Li-2 planes are still in museums today. They remind us of this amazing aircraft's history.

Images for kids

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  Li-2 HA-LIX in Budaörs, Hungary, 2008. It was then the only airworthy Li-2 known. 2002-2008 named Kármán Tódor

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  Shvetsov ASh-62 radial piston engine, mounted on Li-2 HA-LIX, 2008

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  Li-2 HA-LIX Cockpit, 2008

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  Li-2 passenger cabin

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  Li-2 medevac cabin

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  Lisunov Li-2 of Aeroflot at Monino near Moscow in 1994

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  Li-2 in the Chinese RMB

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  Lisunov Li-2 at Chinese Aviation Museum

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  Lisunov Li-2 at Beijing Civil Aviation Museum

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  Lisunov Li-2 side elevation silhouette

See also

In Spanish: Lisunov Li-2 para niños