The Ilyushin IL-2 Sturmovik was one of the most significant and influential ground attack aircraft of World War II, often referred to as the “Flying Tank” or “Black Death” by its pilots and enemies, respectively. Designed by Soviet engineer Sergei Ilyushin 🔗, the IL-2 played a critical role in the Soviet Union’s efforts on the Eastern Front, becoming one of the most produced military aircraft in aviation history.

The IL-2 was developed in response to the Soviet military’s need for a heavily armored ground-attack aircraft that could support ground troops by destroying tanks, artillery, and infantry positions. Initial prototypes were developed in the late 1930s, but the aircraft went through significant changes before entering mass production in 1941.

One of the defining features of the IL-2 was its heavy armor. The aircraft was essentially built around an armored shell that protected the engine, cockpit, fuel tanks, and other critical components. This armor allowed it to withstand significant damage from ground fire, which was essential for its low-altitude attack missions.

The IL-2 was equipped with a variety of weapons tailored for ground attack, including 23mm or 37mm cannons, machine guns, bombs, and unguided rockets. This firepower made it particularly effective against German armored vehicles, supply convoys, and fortified positions. Powered by a Mikulin AM-38 V-12 piston engine, the IL-2 was not particularly fast or agile compared to fighters but was highly effective in low-level attack roles. Its robust construction allowed it to perform missions in the harsh conditions of the Eastern Front, including extreme cold and rough airfields.