An illustrated technical history of the most famous Soviet warplane of World War Two, the Il-2 Shturmovik. Built in larger numbers than any other aircraft, the Il-2 ground-attack and close-support aircraft was perhaps the most important aircraft on the Eastern Front in WW2. The different versions of the plane, from the prototypes to the final aircraft of 1945 are described and illustrated; all the changes in specification, equipment and performance are recorded. Drawings and data from the original technical manuals, full dimensional details and photographs of surviving examples preserved in aviation museums illustrate all aspects of the airframe, inside and out. Wartime photographs and many pages of color illustrations complete the book's comprehensive coverage. About 100 color profiles. Profusely illustrated with photos, including walk-around section showing all aspects of the airframe, and diagrams from official manuals. Includes 1/72nd scale plans, and color profiles showing camouflage and markings applied to the Shturmovik by its users.