This newest offering in the Finnish Air Force History series from Keri Stenman Publishing covers the Soviet bombers used by the Finnish Air Force during the Winter, Continuation and Lapland Wars.  The bombers were the Tupolev SB, Ilyushin DB-3M, the Ilyushin IL-4 and  Petlyakov PE-2 / PE-3. 

Although this is part of the Finnish Air Force History series, for those interested in Soviet aircraft, this volume makes a perfect companion to the previously released Russian Fighters in the FAF. 

As was the case with the Russian fighters, Finland acquired the bombers both through capture and through purchase from German war booty depots.  In fact, all the Ilyushin IL-4 bombers were obtained solely through purchase from the Germans.  The aircraft were used not only in the level-bombing role, but also for training, reconnaissance and anti-submarine work 

Like the other volumes in the series, this one is well organized and presents the information in parallel columns of Finnish and English.  The authors provide a brief background on the development and procurement of each of the aircraft.  The specifications of the aircraft in Finnish service are then given.  Finally, the use of each aircraft by various units in the FAF is presented. 

As one would expect from this series, there are numerous high quality photographs. Nearly all of the photographs are of the aircraft in the field, but there are a few interior and cockpit pictures. 

With regard to the operational history of each individual aircraft, this volume, unlike the Russian fighter volume, provides the information in English at the end; a most welcome improvement.

CONCLUSION:

The Finnish Air Force History series continues to go from success to success, and this volume is no exception.  As I noted in the beginning, even if your interest is confined to Soviet aircraft, one will find this a rewarding addition to one’s library. 

A selection of pictures and color profiles in this book may be seen on the Kari Stenman Publishing web site at  http://www.kolumbus.fi/kari.stenman/sih09.html

Thanks to Kari Stenman  for the sample.

All Keri Stenman Publishing books are available direct from the publishers,
who now accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard).

Review Copyright © 2006 by Steven "Modeldad" Eisenman
Page Created 02 May, 2006
Last updated 25 May, 2006

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