Yakovlev Yak-9 Russian fighter. Ace Marcel Lefevre (Free France)
Ark Models 48014

Dimensions: 177
No. of parts: 66

The Yak-7DI experimental aircraft was the prototype of Yak-9, one of the most numerous fighters in the Soviet Air Force during WWII. The fighter was designed in mid-1942 by A. Yakovlev Design Bureau. Yak-7DI / Yak-9 possessed good flight characteristics and was easy in service and maintenance. From fall of 1942 Yak-7DI / Yak-9 fighters were in action on all fronts of the Soviet-German war. Yak-7DI / Yak-9 fighters were in service with the Soviet Air Force and the Free French “Normandie-Niemen” Regiment. During 1942-1945 the fighter was produced in great numbers. Many Soviet aces fought at Yak-9 controls with Nazis. Among them were distinguished pilots twice Hero of the Soviet Union A. Vorozheykin (52 victories), A. Koldunov (46 victories) and French pilot, Hero of the Soviet Union M. Albert (23 victories). In total 15,470 Yak-7DI / Yak-9 fighters in 15 types and modifications were built.

Marcel Lefevre was among the best aces of the French Fighter Aviation Regiment “Normandie-Niemen” that fought on the Eastern Front in 1943-45. He logged 105 sorties and 30 air battle, scoring 11 kills. Lefevre was killed in action on 28 May 1944 and was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union posthumously on 04 June 1945.