Ilyushin Il-2

History of the Ilyushin Il-2 During World War II

Origins and Development

The Ilyushin Il-2 was conceived in the late 1930s as a dedicated ground-attack aircraft to support Soviet infantry and armoured forces.

Designed by Sergey Ilyushin, it prioritised survivability and firepower.

The prototype, designated TsKB-55, first flew in October 1939.

Production began in early 1941, just months before Germany invaded the Soviet Union.

Strategic Role

The Il-2 was designed to perform shturmovik (assault) missions—low-level attacks against enemy tanks, artillery, and fortified positions.

Its heavy armour protected the pilot and engine, allowing it to absorb significant damage and return safely.

This made it ideal for the brutal conditions of the Eastern Front.

Combat Deployment

Initial Use (1941)

Early single-seat models entered service during the German advance into Soviet territory.

Losses were high due to lack of rear defence and poor coordination with fighter escorts.

Two-Seat Variant (1942)

In response, the Il-2M introduced a rear gunner position, improving survivability against German fighters.

Mass Production

By mid-war, the Il-2 was produced in vast numbers.

Soviet factories prioritised its output, often at the expense of other aircraft types.

It became the most-produced military aircraft in history, with over 36,000 units built.

Tactical Evolution

Il-2 units developed specialised tactics:

Flying in tight formations to concentrate firepower

Coordinated attacks with Yak and La fighters for escort

Use of RS-82 and RS-132 rockets against armoured columns

Precision bombing of bridges, rail yards, and supply depots

Key Engagements

Battle of Kursk (1943)

Il-2s played a decisive role in halting German armoured advances, targeting Panzer divisions and artillery positions.

Operation Bagration (1944)

Provided relentless air support during the Soviet counteroffensive, crippling German logistics and rear positions.

Berlin Offensive (1945)

Continued to operate in close support roles, despite newer aircraft entering service.

Legacy and Impact

The Il-2 became a symbol of Soviet resilience and industrial might.

Stalin famously declared it “as essential to the Red Army as air and bread.”

Its success reshaped Soviet air doctrine, emphasising armoured ground-attack aircraft.

Postwar, it influenced the design of the Il-10 and later jet-powered attack aircraft.