Polish Wings No. 33 Ilyushin Il-2

This book provides detailed documentation of the Soviet attack aircraft Il-2 and its models in the Polish Air Force, including unpublished photographs and color profiles.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2023
Publisher: Wydawnictwo STRATUS, Artur Juszczak

The renowned Soviet attack aircraft Il-2, and its various models within the Polish Air Force, have been meticulously documented with unparalleled detail. This comprehensive publication encompasses a vast collection of unpublished photographs sourced from private collections, accompanied by a series of specially commissioned color profiles that vividly illustrate and provide comprehensive descriptions of the color schemes and markings employed. Spanning a total of 96 pages, this book showcases an impressive array of 52 color profiles, ensuring a thorough exploration of the visual aesthetics of these iconic aircraft.

The Il-2, known as the "Sturmovik" in Soviet service, played a pivotal role in World War II, serving as a versatile ground-attack aircraft. Its variants, including the Il-2 Shturmovik, Il-2 Sturmovik, and Il-2 Stuka, were widely used by the Polish Air Force during the war. The Polish Air Force operated a significant number of Il-2s, with the most prominent units being the 303rd, 308th, and 310th Fighter-Bomber Regiments. These units were primarily deployed in the Eastern Front, where they engaged in ground-attack missions against German forces.

The Polish Air Force's Il-2s were adorned with a variety of color schemes and markings, reflecting their individual units and operational roles. The most common color scheme for the Il-2s was a dark green and brown camouflage pattern, which helped them blend in with the forested terrain of the Eastern Front. However, some units also used different camouflage patterns, such as light green, dark green, or even gray, depending on the environment and the specific mission requirements.

In addition to camouflage patterns, the Polish Air Force also applied a range of markings and insignia to their Il-2s. These markings included unit badges, individual aircraft serial numbers, and national insignia. The unit badges typically featured the symbol of the respective regiment, such as a eagle, lion, or bear, and were often accompanied by the unit's motto or other distinctive symbols. Individual aircraft serial numbers were also prominently displayed, often in large numbers or in unique patterns, to aid in identification and tracking.

The color profiles included in this publication provide a detailed account of the color schemes and markings used on the Polish Air Force's Il-2s. Each profile includes photographs of the aircraft in various stages of completion, as well as detailed descriptions of the colors and patterns used. The profiles also include information on the manufacturers and suppliers of the paint and markings used, as well as the techniques and processes employed to apply them.

This publication is a valuable resource for historians, military enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the history of World War II and the aircraft that played a crucial role in it. The unpublished photographs and specially commissioned color profiles offer a unique perspective on the Il-2 and its various models within the Polish Air Force, providing a deeper understanding of the role these aircraft played in the war effort.

In conclusion, the renowned Soviet attack aircraft Il-2, and its various models within the Polish Air Force, have been meticulously documented with unparalleled detail in this comprehensive publication. The collection of unpublished photographs, accompanied by specially commissioned color profiles, offers a vivid portrayal of the color schemes and markings used on these iconic aircraft. This book is a valuable resource for historians, military enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the history of World War II and the aircraft that played a crucial role in it.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 209 x 297 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788366549999