SV-51 - Variants

Variants

• SV-51α (single-seat variant): Mass production type. An estimated 32 units manufactured.
• SV-51 (two-seat variant): An estimated 6 units manufactured.
• SV-51γ: Specially tuned version. Flown by Anti-U.N. aces Nora Polyansky and D.D. Ivanov.
• SV-52: a modified version of the SV-51α. 12 were converted.

Several units have been modified for underwater launching capabilities from converted ballistic missile submarines. Launch was performed at a depth of up to 30 metres (98 ft) underwater by using rocket motors, and once airborne the aircraft switched to standard turbofan engines. These units have been modified with improved waterproofing, pressure resistance, and folding wing construction to make them compact enough for stowage in the submarine launching docks.