The Polikarpov I-16. Ink, pencil and watercolor drawings by Joan Mañé
The Polikarpov I-16 is a Soviet single-engine single-seat fighter aircraft. It uses a low-wing cantilever monoplane design with retractable landing gear. It was the first of its kind to enter operational squadron service.
The Soviets introduced the I-16 in the mid-1930s. It became the backbone of the Soviet Air Force at the start of World War II. Pilots nicknamed it “Ishak” or “Ishachok” (“donkey” or “burro”).
The aircraft saw major action in several conflicts. These include the Second Sino-Japanese War, the Battle of Khalkhin Gol, the Winter War, and the Spanish Civil War. In Spain, Nationalists called it “Rata” (“rat”), while Republicans called it “Mosca” (“fly”).
