Soviet Pilots of the 566th Assault Aviation Regiment with Il-2, Kingisepp 1944

August 27, 2025 - Reading time: 4 minutes

Soviet pilots of the 566th Assault Aviation Regiment with Il-2 aircraft in Kingisepp, summer 1944.

This photograph captures Soviet pilots and air gunners of the 566th Assault Aviation Regiment of the Red Army, posing in front of an Ilyushin Il-2 attack aircraft in Kingisepp, Leningrad Oblast, during the summer of 1944.

The 566th Assault Aviation Regiment, part of the 277th Assault Aviation Division, 1st Air Army, 3rd Belorussian Front, played a crucial role in the Soviet offensive against German forces in the Baltic region. The Il-2, known as the "Flying Tank," was the primary ground-attack aircraft of the Soviet Air Force, renowned for its formidable firepower and armor protection.

Among the individuals in the photograph are notable heroes of the Soviet Union:

Mikhail Ivanovich Golomazov: Deputy squadron commander, recognized for his bravery and leadership.
Lev Pavlovich Korchagin: Hero of the Soviet Union, celebrated for his exceptional combat skills.
Vasily Ilyich Mykhlik: Twice Hero of the Soviet Union, distinguished for his remarkable achievements in aerial combat.

The image reflects the camaraderie and determination of the Soviet airmen during a pivotal period in World War II, highlighting their contributions to the liberation of Soviet territories from Nazi occupation.

Technical photo data:
📝 Source of information: Family archive of A. Golomazov
📍 Location: Kingisepp, Leningrad Oblast, USSR
📅 Date of photo: Summer 1944
📷 Photographer: Unknown