Severski I-13 “Fencer” (Feb 1936): A rude shock to French and International pilots when the actionistes first fielded it in 1937, the I-13 had in fact entered squadron service in Russia in February 1936. Given the nickname for its ability at higher altitudes and its facility with slashing attacks (and making an F-nickname traditional for Russian hunters), the I-13 gained its performance from the two-stage supercharger and large intercooler attached to its radial engine. The length of this apparatus necessitated a cockpit set well aft, harming visibility particularly on takeoff and landing, but the benefit was extreme. A full 25mph faster than early marks of the Hawk, with a full throttle height three thousand feet higher, maneuverable and well-armed and armored, the I-13 was the best hunter of its day. Only the Thunderbird could fight it at high altitude, but the I-13 heavily outgunned it and was much more maneuverable; it would take the release for export of the Hawk Mk III with its own two-stage supercharged engine for the républicains to have a counter. I-13 Type 3: 6239lb dry, 7650lb loaded, 1350HP, 375mph, 2x 23mm cannon, 4x 7.62mm MG.
I-13 Type 6 prior to shipment to France, 1937.
I-13 Type 6 prior to shipment to France, 1937.