Description

The Il-2 was a single-engine, low-wing monoplane with early versions armed with two 23-millimetre cannons and two 7.6-millimetre machine guns mounted in the wings. The aircraft could also carry about 1,000 pounds (450 kg) of bombs or a lesser quantity of rockets. Later versions mounted two 37-millimetre cannons, and a two-seat version had provision for a tail gunner. The entire forward part of the aircraft was constructed of a single armour-plated shell that afforded maximum protection to the pilot. The Il-2’s cannons and other weapons made it particularly effective at destroying tanks, and its use against the German panzer divisions in 1941–43 helped turn the tide of battle in the Soviets’ favour.