Mikhail Maslov's POLIKARPOV I-15, I-16 AND I-153 ACES devotes itself to the trio of highly maneuverable fighters designed by Nikolay Polikarpov. From the mid-1930s to late 1941, the I-15, I-153 and I-16 formed the bulwark of Russian Air Force units. Committed to action worldwide, the stubby, sturdy Polikarpov fighters proved to be deadly opponents. Although later eclipsed by LaGG, MiG and Yak products, the Polikarpov family of fighters compiled a first-rate combat record, a record described in this fine 'Osprey Aircraft of the Aces' volume, #95 in the series.
After detailing the production history of the three fighters, Maslov relates the combat record of Polikarpov fighters over Spain, China, the Khalkhin Gol, Finland and Mother Russia itself. In all, some 16,000+ I-15, I-153 and I-16 models were produced. When Hitler invaded Russia in June 1941, I-16s made up 40% of the VVS fighter inventory. I-15bis and I-153 variants were still on strength and Luftwaffe pilots soon learned to fear Polikarpov's fighters. Though outclassed by Bf 109s, VVS pilots were fearless in their attacks on Luftwaffe formations, Russian pilots often launching ramming - 'taran' - attacks in their determination to down the hated 'Fascists.'
POLIKARPOV I-15, I-16 and I-153 ACES is a nicely-done, well-illustrated guide to Polikarpov aces wherever they flew and whatever their nationality. Maslov makes excellent use of first-person reminiscences. Interestingly enough, he devotes several pages to taran attacks and the VVS use of air-to-air rockets, subjects dear to my heart. Given the frantic nature of air combat whether over Spain, China or Moscow, overclaiming was rampant, Maslov making an effort to compare claims against actual losses where known. Whatever the true score of those Polikarpov aces, they proved to be dangerous opponents.
The book is illustrated with 90 photographs, some new to the reviewer, and ten pages of nicely-done color profiles by Andrey Yurgenson. And there's dramatic cover art by Mark Styling, natch!
Air combat buffs should enjoy this overview of Polikarpov fighters in action. Although many of the pilots' names are tongue-twisters, the book is an easy read and quite informative. Recommended.