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Ilyushin Il-2M -vulnerable to attack from behind, the r
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Ilyushin Il-2M -vulnerable to attack from behind, the r
Ilyushin Il-2M -vulnerable to attack from behind, the rear gunner version entered service in Summer 1942 Nearly 36, 200 built
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Media ID 14222772
© Hugh W. Cowin Aviation Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
1942 Attack Behind Entered Gunner Ilyushin Rear Version Vulnerable Nearly
EDITORS COMMENTS
Ilyushin Il-2M: Vulnerable from Behind in the Sky of World War II Amidst the intense aerial battles of World War II, the Ilyushin Il-2M emerged as a formidable force in the Eastern Front. Known as the "Flying Tank," this Soviet ground-attack aircraft was a crucial asset for the Red Army, capable of delivering devastating firepower against enemy ground targets. However, its design had a significant weakness: its vulnerability to attack from behind. In response to this threat, the Ilyushin Il-2M rear gunner version was developed and entered service in the summer of 1942. This variant was outfitted with a dorsal machine gun turret manned by a dedicated gunner, providing crucial defensive coverage against enemy fighters. The addition of this defensive measure significantly improved the Il-2M's survivability in combat. The Ilyushin Il-2M was a single-engine, two-seat aircraft designed by the Soviet aircraft manufacturer, Ilyushin. Nearly 36,200 units were built during its production run, making it one of the most produced military aircraft in history. Its versatility and reliability made it a staple of the Soviet air force, serving in various roles, including ground attack, fighter-bomber, and trainer. This photograph captures an Ilyushin Il-2M in flight, its distinctive silhouette and armament on display. The rear gunner, poised and alert, scans the sky for any signs of enemy aircraft. The vulnerability of this aircraft from behind is a stark reminder of the realities of aerial combat during World War II. Despite this weakness, the Il-2M's impact on the war cannot be denied, and its legacy continues to be celebrated in the annals of aviation history.
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