Strategy, Tactical, Leadership, and Technology

The Antonov A-7bis was a refined version of the A-7 glider, developed in 1941 to improve structural strength, payload capacity, and handling during landings. While maintaining the high-wing, all-wood design of its predecessor, the A-7bis featured reinforced fuselage frames, slightly larger cargo capacity, and better aerodynamic surfaces to reduce drag during towed flight. It remained capable of carrying seven troops but could also accommodate light artillery or small vehicles with careful loading.

Performance and Design

The A-7bis retained a wingspan of roughly 15 meters but benefited from strengthened spars and thicker plywood skinning, allowing a maximum takeoff weight of around 1,850 kg. Towed by medium bombers or transport aircraft, it could achieve release altitudes sufficient to glide 50–60 km depending on conditions. Troop ingress and egress were facilitated by an improved side hatch and reinforced flooring for cargo.

Improvements

Key upgrades over the original A-7 included:

• Reinforced structure to withstand rough or uneven landing zones.

• Slightly increased payload capacity for additional equipment or supplies.

• Aerodynamic refinements that improved glide ratio and stability.

Pilot and Crew Feedback

Pilots found the A-7bis easier to control in tow and more forgiving on landing than the A-7, particularly when fully loaded. Troops appreciated better interior arrangement and sturdier flooring, though glider landings still required careful coordination to avoid damage. Crew chiefs praised the simple maintenance of wooden components and the ability to produce the gliders quickly in wartime factories.

Operational Context

The A-7bis was deployed in Soviet airborne operations during World War II, providing silent insertion of troops behind German lines in support of offensive actions. Its improvements made it more reliable and versatile than the original A-7, though glider operations remained high-risk. The A-7bis demonstrated the practicality and limitations of early Soviet assault gliders and influenced postwar Soviet transport glider designs.