SOVIET COMBAT AIRCRAFT of the Second World War

The first of a two-volume set detailing all Second World War combat aircraft – both prototype and operational. Arranged by the manufacturer, the book includes the products of famous designers such as Lavochkin, Mikoyan and Yakovlev as well as lesser-known names, such as Bereznyak and Isaev, who were responsible for a rocket propelled fighter.

Until now, books on Soviet aircraft of the era have relied very much on Western sources and have been lightweight on first-hand information, especially on design origins, production, flight testing and combat experience.

In researching Soviet Combat Aircraft of the Second World War, the authors have trawled rich resources of Russian origin, including manufacturers, flight test establishments and Soviet air force and naval aviation operational records.

This has produced a wealth of new material, much of which rewrites previously held Western views and at last presents a detailed and authoritative study of this fascinating subject.

In his introduction, world-renowned author Bill Gunston sets out the unique nature of Soviet aviation, both in terms of research and development, aircraft production and combat tactics.

He concludes: ‘I have no hesitation in claiming that this volume, together with the one dealing with twin-engined fighters, attack aircraft and bombers, are the first to cover the Soviet aircraft of the Great Patriotic War comprehensively and without errors.’

Supported by over 360 black and white photographs – many never published in the West before – plus 28 multi-view plans and 17 colour side views, Soviet Combat Aircraft of the Second World War is uniquely qualified to become the first source of reference on the subject.