ICM Pilots of the Soviet Air Force 1943-1945

In the first half of the war, the Soviet Air Force suffered significant losses in combat equipment and personnel. However, from 1942 onwards, the situation gradually changed. The production of new types of aircraft was accelerated, and the tactics and methods of air warfare also evolved. For instance, Air Force General Walter Schwabedissen noted the aggressiveness, self-confidence, stubbornness in aerial combat, frequent self-sacrifice, and disregard for danger of the Soviet fighter pilots when assessing them. According to his recollections, some selected Soviet air units were practically on par with their German opponents in terms of combat capabilities.