About the book: 2004 / The Pe-2 aircraft became the most popular bomber of the Red Army Air Force during the Second World War. In the period from 1940 to 1945 aircraft factories built 11,247 aircraft - more than any other Soviet bomber in history. The high-speed Pe-2 was distinguished by high bombing accuracy, but in the internal compartment the aircraft could carry no more than 600 kg of bombs, in addition, the vehicle had poor controllability during landing. The last factor played a particularly important role when operating from front-line field airfields. "Pawn" remained the main striking force of front-line bomber aviation throughout the Great Patriotic War.