216 Petlyakov Pe-2

Author:
Publisher: Profile Publications England
Cover: Soft
Profile

More Reference Books

Synopsis: This comprehensive study examines the Petlyakov Pe-2, one of the Soviet Union's most important and successful combat aircraft of World War II, serving with distinction throughout the Great Patriotic War. The book traces the aircraft's remarkable development from its origins as a high-altitude fighter to its evolution into a versatile dive bomber and attack aircraft. The Pe-2 emerged from the creative genius of Vladimir Petlyakov, who designed this multi-role aircraft while imprisoned in a special design bureau, creating one of the war's most effective combat aircraft under extraordinary circumstances. The publication details the aircraft's advanced features including all-metal construction, retractable landing gear, and sophisticated systems that made it competitive with Western designs. Technical analysis reveals the engineering excellence that enabled the Pe-2 to perform effectively in multiple roles including dive bombing, level bombing, reconnaissance, and fighter duties. The book chronicles the aircraft's extensive operational history on the Eastern Front, where it proved instrumental in halting German advances and supporting Soviet offensive operations throughout the war. Combat accounts from Soviet aircrew provide insights into the aircraft's performance in the brutal aerial combat conditions of the Eastern Front, highlighting its effectiveness against both ground targets and enemy aircraft. The publication examines the numerous variants developed for specialized roles, including night fighter configurations and long-range reconnaissance models that demonstrated the design's inherent versatility. Performance data illustrates the aircraft's impressive speed and maneuverability that made it one of the most successful twin-engine fighters of the war. The book also covers the aircraft's post-war service and its influence on subsequent Soviet aircraft designs, demonstrating the lasting impact of Petlyakov's innovations. Production history reveals the Soviet Union's remarkable ability to mass-produce complex aircraft under wartime conditions, with over 11,000 Pe-2s manufactured during the conflict. Personal stories from pilots, navigators, and gunners illuminate the human aspects of operating this sophisticated aircraft in combat. The publication includes detailed technical specifications, performance comparisons, and unit histories. This Profile Publication provides valuable insights into Soviet aviation capabilities and the contributions of one of the war's most underappreciated aircraft designs.

216 Petlyakov Pe-2, is one of the many primary source materials in the Army Air Corps Museum collection.