Unlike other Yak-3 variants, the Yak-3U is fitted with a large radial engine, in an attempt to increase performance while avoiding the overheating problems of the VK-107 and VK-108 engines.
This Yak-3 is based at Lelystad Apt in the Netherlands and is seen arriving here for the Tail Dragger & Old Timer Fly in held on Texel Island in the weekend of 16/17 May 2009. Poor visibility, high winds and rain marred the event.
This Yak-3 is one of a number converted C-11's by Avioane at Cariova, Romania. The fighter is powered by a P&W R-1830 radial. '48'is based at Lelystad Apt in the Netherlands.