Soviet Tactical Aviation Book Review
By David L. Veres
| Date of Review | March 2012 | Title | Soviet Tactical Aviation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Author | Yefim Gordon and Dmitriy Komissarov | Publisher | Hikoki Publications |
| Published | 2011 | ISBN | 9781902109237 |
| Format | 356 pages, hardcover | MSRP (USD) | $56.95 |
Review
Soviet Tactical Aviation by Yefim Gordon and Dmitriy Komissarov superbly illumines the amazing scope and scale of "Frontal Aviation" assets from Nazism's 1945 defeat to communism's 1991 collapse.
Text traces the total tale – planning, equipment, operations and politics – in one handy, helpful tome. Coverage chronologically courses from the Korean Conflict, to competing post-war priorities, through tactical aviation's rebirth in the 1960's and 1970's, to growing sophistication and capability during the Cold War's final decade.
I especially enjoyed sections on embryonic tactical assets. There, the authors capably chronicle the earliest Il-10's through elusive La-15's to iconic MiG-15's. Sections on "Friendly Nations" assistance and Soviet Afghan War operations proved equally absorbing.
Hobbyists will welcome the book's 600 B&W and color photos – many previously unpublished. All the customary cast appear – MiGs, Sukhois, Yaks and more – often in striking livery. And the heavily illustrated tome sports 50 beautifully rendered color profiles for abundant model project inspiration.
Reflecting latest research, this captivating volume deserves a spot in your Cold War library. Soviet Tactical Aviation earned my highest recommendation.
My sincere thanks to Specialty Press for this review sample!