The Biplane that Struck Fear in Invaders, Outsmarted Radar, and Took Down a Jet During WWII

In the early years of aviation, one unassuming biplane made a name for itself despite its simple design and modest performance. This aircraft, known as the Polar CaRu P2—or later simply as the PO2—first took to the air in 1927. It was designed as a trainer with a mostly wooden and fabric construction. Over time, more than 20,000 of these planes were built, making it the most produced biplane in history. Its basic design allowed it to be built quickly and at a low cost. Even though it did not look like a modern combat aircraft, it carved out an unexpected career for itself during World War II.

In the 1920s, the PO2 was the brainchild of Russian aeronautical engineer Nikolai Nicolich Po Carpov, one of the busiest aircraft designers of that time. He produced several models for the Soviet Red Air Force, including a sturdy plane known as the U2. As the 1930s progressed, the Soviet Union faced many challenges, and the aircraft industry was not spared. Po Carpov was expected to deliver new designs quickly, but when he failed to meet his production targets, he was arrested and sentenced to death. Instead of being executed, he was sent to a top secret research center, where he continued his work on future aircraft designs.

A Role Beyond Training

When Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941, the Soviet Air Force found itself in dire need of every available aircraft. Although the U2 did not look like much, its ability to fly low and slow gave it a unique role. On October 8, 1941, three new ground attack regiments were formed with the approval of Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, after efforts by famous pilot Maria Rasco. For the next four years, these regiments were staffed entirely by female pilots, who flew the U2 with determination. The aircraft, later renamed the PO2 after its designer, completed over 20,000 missions. One pilot, Arena SAA, flew more than 108 missions, surpassing the records of many British and American pilots during the war.

Though many considered the PO2 a slow and outdated biplane, its very slowness turned out to be an asset. With a maximum speed of only about 95 mph, the PO2 could fly slower than the minimum speed of most German fighters. This meant that enemy aircraft, which relied on high speed to engage their targets, were less effective when attempting to intercept the PO2. The sudden, quiet approach of these biplanes at night disrupted enemy routines, and their presence instilled a measure of fear among opposing forces.

Unexpected Success in Combat

The PO2 was not built as a combat aircraft, yet its role expanded during the war. It was adapted for ground attack missions and even used as a night bomber. On one famous mission, the PO2 surprised a German jet fighter during a low-speed encounter. The fighter was unable to adjust its speed and maneuver effectively, allowing the biplane to score an unexpected victory. Such successes, although mostly symbolic, boosted the morale of those who flew and supported the aircraft. Its slow speed, rather than being a disadvantage, proved useful in avoiding the faster and more agile enemy fighters.

The design of the PO2 allowed it to operate in conditions where more modern aircraft could not. Its low-speed performance and the use of simple materials made it hard to detect by early radar systems. The camouflage and the low, quiet flight of the biplane helped it slip through enemy defenses. This ability was important not only for combat but also for psychological warfare. The appearance of a seemingly outdated biplane suddenly attacking at night served to unsettle enemy troops.

Lasting Impact and Legacy

After the war, the PO2 continued to be remembered not only for its unexpected combat success but also for its influence on later aircraft design. The idea that a simple, slow aircraft could be effective against more advanced fighters was surprising to many military planners. Its design encouraged further research into low-observable technology and stealth methods in aviation. Despite its humble beginnings as a trainer, the PO2’s wartime record of over 20,000 missions and its role in disrupting enemy operations earned it a unique place in aviation history. Although many of its original models have not survived, the story of the PO2 remains a striking example of how basic design and clever tactics can overcome technological disadvantages on the battlefield.