An Ilyushin Il-2 Sturmovik ground attack aircraft

Designed by Sergey Ilyushin, the heavily armored Sturmovik attack aircraft went into production in the spring of 1941. Although initially unsuccessful, improved tactics and technical modifications made to later versions caused the Sturmovik to become one of the most feared ground attack aircraft flown in the Second World War.

The Sturmovik is most remembered for its thick armor plating; allowing it to take enormous punishment from either Axis anti-aircraft guns or Axis fighters. Both the pilot and engine were encased in an armored tub capable of stopping all small arms fire and, on occasion, even direct hits from 20mm cannon. In addition to being remembered for its ability to take a beating, the Sturmovik is known for its fearsome armament; including 20mm, 23mm or 37mm cannon, rockets, bombs or bomblets - all capable of penetrating the thin top armor of Axis armored vehicles. The Sturmovik also has one more claim to fame - with over 36,000 built it was the most produced aircraft during the Second World War.



Picture in Public Domain in Russia