Guideline has just added the Ilyushin IL-2 to the list of titles in their “Warpaint” series.

The pages of this book are all printed on high-quality, glossy stock, and the covers are in stiffer card stock, also glossy. As with other titles in this series, the production quality is quite high.

There are not really any distinct “chapters” in the book, but each new section is labeled in bold type. The author dives right in on page one to explain the history behind the idea of the Il-2, and its subsequent creation. Having established that, he then discusses early production, modifications, and further production. The addition of a second crewman (rear gunner) is covered in depth, as this was a major change to the initial version of the aircraft. Some brief combat history is woven throughout the developmental history, as in large part it was the combat experience that resulted in the need for changes to the airframe.

Throughout the text there are numerous black and white photos, as well as some interesting wartime sketches showing combat tactics. A set of 1/72 scale plans are included, with the major versions covered in 3-view, and various sub-types shown in side views.

To me, the centerpiece of any Warpaint volume is the color profile section. This one does not disappoint. There are no fewer than 8 pages of very well-done color side profiles of both single- and two-seat Soviet IL-2s, as well as several foreign-marked Sturmoviks (including one from the Mongolian Air Force in interesting-looking markings). There are also color 5-view profiles on both inside covers.

Besides the profiles, there are 2 sections at the end that might be of particular use to modelers. The “in detail” section comprises 2 pages of color photos taken of an IL-2 in the Central Air Museum, outside of Moscow. All 14 photos on these pages are close-ups of areas like the landing light, exhaust area, canopy, etc. Following this is a 2-page compilation of all IL-2 kits, decals, and accessories on the market. No commentary or reviews of these items are present, but the list itself could be a useful resource.

I like this series, and do like this particular volume. The text does have a few oddities that most likely are the result of non-native English speaking author, but his subject knowledge shines through and more than makes up for this. This is a good, concise history of the aircraft, has some excellent detail photos, and superb color profiles. Highly recommend!

Thanks to Guideline for the review copy, and to IPMS for allowing me to review it.