Ilyushin IL-2 Shturmovik

The Ilyushin IL-2 Shturmovik was one of the most significant ground-attack aircraft of World War II and a vital asset to the Soviet Union’s air force. Designed by Sergey Ilyushin, the IL-2 was introduced in 1941 as a heavily armored, single-engine aircraft specifically built to support ground troops and destroy enemy tanks and fortifications. Its most distinctive feature was its extensive armor plating, which was integrated into the fuselage structure—offering protection for the engine, cockpit, and fuel tanks. This rugged design allowed the IL-2 to withstand considerable enemy fire, earning it nicknames such as the “Flying Tank” and “Black Death” (the latter from German troops who frequently faced its wrath).

Over 36,000 IL-2s were produced, making it one of the most manufactured military aircraft in history. It played a crucial role on the Eastern Front, particularly in major battles like Stalingrad and Kursk, where its ability to conduct low-level precision strikes against enemy armor and supply lines proved decisive. Though vulnerable to fighter aircraft in its early single-seat version, later two-seat models included a rear gunner for improved defense. The IL-2 was more than just a tactical weapon—it became a symbol of Soviet resilience and technological ingenuity, embodying the USSR’s ability to adapt industrial capacity to meet the demands of total war.

In this case, I chose to build the single-seat version because I liked the winter camouflage option. The Zvezda kit is pretty good. It does not have major fit issues and the included detail is very nice. It includes a full Mikulin AM-38 engine, although it is not very visible through the optional open panels. In order to enhance the cockpit, I purchased a “Space” set from Eduard, with 3D-Printed decals for the instrument panel and Photo-etched seatbelts.

The build process

Project Inventory

Kit	Box	Scale	Code
Zvezda IL-2 Shturmovik		1/48	4825
Eduard IL-2 SPACE 1/48		1/72	AM-48-156