Il-2 model of 1943

The Ilyushin Il-2 model of 1943 is a plane from the Battle of Kuban module of IL-2 Sturmovik: Great Battles.

Important facts and figures

Engine management

Boosted power time limit: 5min.

Mixture control is automatic once the lever is set at 50%.

Single speed supercharger.

Airspeed considerations

Vne: 570km/h.

Stall speed without flaps: 144-159km/h.

Stall speed with flaps: 135-152km/h.

Flat out top speed at sea level: 407km/h.

Flying the Il-2 model of 1943

Out of combat

Startup and taxi

• Mixture and RPM 100%
• Throttle 10-15%.
• Begin engine startup sequence.
• For taxiing, don't forget that you can unlock the tail wheel for turning.

Takeoff

• Make sure the tailwheel is locked!
• Set the radiators for the inital climb to altitude.
• Mixture 50%.
• Smoothly throttle up to full power.
• As you gain speed, the engine will enter boosted power.
• Once you are airborne and above around 200km/h, you can adjust throttle and RPM to continuous power.

Climb

• Pitch trim to achieve the desired attitude.
• Keep an eye on your radiator temperature and adjust the radiator flaps if necessary.

Cruise

• Pitch trim to achieve the desired attitude.
• Keep an eye on your radiator temperature and adjust the radiator flaps if necessary.

Landing

• The pneumatic flap actuators can only exert enough force to extend the flaps under 220km/h. And even then, the flaps won't fully extend. Expect them to suddenly extend as your speed drops, with the usual effects on handling.
• Landing speed is around 160km/h.

In combat

Overall

The biggest feature that distinguishes the model of 1943 from its predecessors is the Visier Vladimirova iron sight. Though it looks primitive in comparison the the relflex sight the previous models used, and it is undoubtedly a pain in the ass with head tracking, it is a powerful aid for ground attack if you learn how to use it.

Flying against the Il-2 model of 1943

Do not do this

• Fly inside the field of fire of the rear gunner.