Description
Overview
The Tamiya 1/72 Ilyushin IL-2 Shturmovik is a precision plastic model assembly kit recreating the most-produced military aircraft in aviation history. With over 36,000 examples built during World War II, the IL-2 was the Soviet military's primary ground-attack aircraft and played a crucial role in the eventual Russian victory on the Eastern Front. This heavily armored "flying tank" was feared by German ground forces and beloved by Soviet pilots for its incredible durability.
This detailed kit from Tamiya's War Bird Collection captures the robust, purposeful form of this legendary aircraft, including its characteristic integrated armor protecting the cockpit, engine, and fuel tank. The kit depicts the improved two-seat variant with rear gunner and 15-degree swept wings that was introduced in late 1943. Together with the T-34 tank, the IL-2 Shturmovik contributed greatly to Soviet military success on the Eastern Front.
Key Features
- Accurate 1/72 scale with 162mm length and 203mm wingspan
- Robust form accurately reproduced while offering easy assembly
- Intake duct with radiator and oil cooler parts for accurate reproduction
- Two-seat cockpit with rich detail finish
- Wheel well with armored shutters faithfully recreated
- Two types of 23mm cannon fairings included
- 100kg and 250kg bomb parts included
- Three types of RS-132 rocket launch rails
- Three marking options included
Performance Benefits
- Highly realistic finish on fuselage and wing surfaces
- Wooden rear fuselage section accurately depicted
- 15-degree swept wing configuration for late-war accuracy
- Multiple ordnance options for varied display configurations
- Tamiya precision engineering ensures excellent part fit
Usage Notes
- Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Recommended for ages 10 and up
- Assembly time: 4-8 hours
- Use Olive Green and Earth tones for authentic Soviet VVS camouflage
- Panel line accent recommended for enhanced weathering effects
Technical Specs
- Scale: 1/72
- Length: 162mm (6.4 inches)
- Wingspan: 203mm (8.0 inches)
- Subject: Ilyushin IL-2 Shturmovik
- Type: Plastic model assembly kit
- Manufacturer: Tamiya
- Item Number: 60781
What's Included
- Plastic model sprues with detailed parts
- Clear canopy parts
- 100kg and 250kg bomb parts
- RS-132 rocket launch rails (3 types)
- 23mm cannon fairings (2 types)
- Waterslide decal sheet with 3 marking options
- Detailed pictorial assembly instructions
Needed to Complete
- Plastic model cement/glue
- Hobby knife and cutting tools
- Model paints (Olive Green, Earth Brown, Light Blue undersides, and detail colors)
- Paint brushes or airbrush
- Finishing supplies
Summary
The Tamiya 1/72 Ilyushin IL-2 Shturmovik delivers an exceptional representation of aviation history's most-produced military aircraft. With its robust armored form, multiple weapons options, and three authentic Soviet VVS marking schemes, this kit is essential for WWII Eastern Front enthusiasts and aviation history collectors seeking to commemorate this legendary ground-attack aircraft.