Ilyushin Il-4 In Action By Hans-Heiri Stapfer Squadron/Signal Publications, ©2004 ISBN 0-89747-471-6 50 pages Reviewed By Michael Benolkin

The author has returned with a nicely detailed look at another subject frequently overlooked - the Ilyushin Il-4 bomber. Starting life as the DB-3 series bomber during the 1930s, the Ilyushin design team continued to evolve their twin-engined design into the Il-4 series used during WWII. The Il-4 would become the heart of Soviet Long-Range Aviation during the war, supplemented by Lend-Lease B-25 Mitchells. While the Il-4 had better ceiling and range capabilities over the Mitchell, the B-25 boasted greater speed and defensive armament.

The history of this series would not be complete without a look at the Il-6, which was a diesel-powered (?!?) 'improvement' on the Il-4. While containing some significant operational capabilities on paper, the aircraft proved to be underpowered and difficult to fly, keeping the type from entering production.

Whether you are an aviation historian or modeler, this is another great work to add to your reference library. You can purchase this and any of the Squadron/Signal Publications from your local hobby retailer, bookstore or directly from Squadron's website . They have some of the fastest mail order delivery in this industry - give them a try!

My sincere thanks to Squadron/Signal Publications for this review sample!