Kovozavody Prostejov 1/72 Avia B-10 'Ski' # 72003

The Avia B-10 with skis was a variant of the Czechoslovakian-designed Avia B-10, a twin-engine light bomber aircraft introduced in the 1930s.

The B-10 was notable for being one of the first all-metal monoplane bombers in Europe, representing a leap in aviation technology over the older biplane designs.

Adding skis to the B-10 allowed it to operate in harsh, snow-covered environments, expanding its utility in regions with severe winters or where traditional wheeled landing gear would be impractical.

Design and Features
The Avia B-10 featured a streamlined, low-wing monoplane design with retractable landing gear, which was quite advanced for its time.

Powered by two Walter Pegasus radial engines, the B-10 could reach a top speed of around 230 mph (370 km/h) and had an operational range of about 750 miles (1,200 km).

Its armament typically included three machine guns and up to 800 kg (1,764 lbs) of bombs, making it a capable light bomber for its era.

When equipped with skis, the B-10 was adapted for winter operations, particularly in areas where heavy snow or frozen terrain made conventional landings difficult.

The ski-equipped variant was used in regions where snow was a seasonal or year-round issue, ensuring that the bomber could still operate effectively without being grounded by environmental conditions.

The ski modifications were designed to replace the retractable wheels, allowing the aircraft to take off and land on snow or ice without sinking or getting stuck.

Role and Usage
While the B-10 was primarily a light bomber, the ski-equipped version would have been used for reconnaissance, bombing raids, or logistical support in winter conditions.

The ability to perform operations in snowy or icy areas was crucial for military forces that needed to maintain air operations during the winter months.

Czechoslovakia's harsh winters, and the possibility of operating in snow-covered regions of Central and Eastern Europe, made the ski variant particularly useful for air forces preparing for a variety of climatic challenges.

This adaptation enhanced the B-10’s operational versatility, making it one of the early military aircraft that could be configured for all-weather operations.

Legacy
While the Avia B-10 became somewhat outdated by the outbreak of World War II, its innovations in bomber design, such as its monoplane structure and all-metal construction, paved the way for more modern bombers.

The ski-equipped variant showcased the adaptability of military aircraft to different environmental conditions, ensuring that air operations could continue despite challenging weather.