PZL.38 Wilk

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PZL P38 Wilk

The PZL.38 Wilk (polish: "wolf") (PZL-38) was a Polish fighter-bomber designed by the engineer Franciszek Misztal developed and manufactured by PZL (the state-owned aviation institute) in 1937. Because of the start of the Second World War, the plane never progressed beyond the prototype stage.

[edit] History

In 1934 the Polish Air Force ordered a new multi-role fighter-bomber. It was part of three-year modernization and development plan for the air force. The plan covered development and manufacturing of: a reconnaissance-bomber (then called PZL.23 Karas), a medium bomber (PZL.37 Łoś) and a heavy fighter. In an internal PZL competition Misztal's project won and was given the designation PZL.38 Wilk. In this construction was used aerodynamic profile from (which succeeded) PZL.37 Łoś. The powerplant had to be produced by Polish Skoda Works and called PZL Foka (pol. seal) and projected by Stanisław Nowkuński. Unfortunately he died in Tatry mountains on 30 July 1936 and work on the project slowed down. Due to technical problems, overheating and vibration, it was decided to use a foreign engine. In 1937 two prototypes were built. The first received the American engine Ranger SGV-770B engine (420-450 hp), which was weaker and heavier. As a result the prototype didn't meet expected performance. The second one, prepared in the same year, got the PZL Foka engine. It was shown in 1938 at the Paris aviation show and was chosen as the most beautiful aircraft. It was tested in 1939 and also didn't have meet necessary parameters. The outbreak of the war disrupted work on the prototype.