The latest book in the Finnish Air Force history covers Russian Bombers. More than just about any other warring nation during the Second World War, Finland made the most out of aircraft it had captured from its enemy; in this case the Soviet Union. These aircraft were further added to by the purchase of war booty from Germany, whose huge advances during the opening days of the war with the Soviet Union allowed them to capture a considerable number of aircraft in operational or near-operational condition.

In this book the four types used by Finland; the SB-2, DB-4, IL-2 and Pe-2/3 are covered. Each aircraft has a historical section that includes the development of the type, technical specifications,  and acquisition and use by Finland. Because there were not that many, a rather detailed operational history is given.

The book itself is typical of the superb works in the rest of the series. It is a dual Finnish/English publication with outstanding photographs and in this case include a number of interior and other detail photographs. These are perfect for the modeler as they are crisply done. This series always has a brief history of each aircraft and I'm glad to see that in this one it is also provided in English; a first from my recollection. All of this is topped off by some great period color photos and profiles on the cover sheets.

Another superb book and one that is a must for the enthusiast.

May 2006

Review book courtesy of  Kari Stenman Publishing, where you can order your copy of this and several other superb books on the Finnish AF.

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and quickly by a site that has over 300,000 visitors a month, please contact me or see other details in the Note to Contributors.