This Soviet ground attack aircraft is the most widely produced  military aircraft of all time . Over 36,100 have been produced.

    Soviet doctrine in WW2 did not stress strategic bombing , the huge distances involved  on the eastern front made it impractical.

    The Red Air force was considered  to be an extension  of the army . Their aircraft were used for short range , low level tactical missions.

Bomber Command R.C.A.F.  F/LT  Sean Dunn

    The Sturmovik  was superbly designed for this role .It was heavily armored , and carried 1300 pounds (590 KG)  of bombs , two 37 mm cannon ,one 12.7 mm and two 7.62mm  machine guns .

Ilyushin Il-2  Sturmovik