IL-28 Beagle – PDF

The Ilyushin Il-28 “Beagle” was developed during the late 1940s to provide the Soviet Union with a modern jet-powered tactical bomber. Designed by the Ilyushin design bureau, the Il-28 combined two turbojet engines with a conventional straight-wing layout and a three-man crew. Its relatively simple and rugged construction allowed it to operate from a wide variety of airfields while carrying a substantial bomb load, making the aircraft well suited to the Soviet requirement for a dependable tactical strike platform.

Entering service in 1950, the Il-28 rapidly became an important component of Soviet bomber aviation. Beagles were employed in conventional and nuclear strike roles, while specialized versions performed reconnaissance, electronic warfare, target towing, and training missions. Large numbers were deployed throughout the Soviet Union and Warsaw Pact, presenting NATO planners with a significant tactical bombing threat during the 1950s and early 1960s.

The Il-28 was also widely exported to Soviet allies and became one of the most internationally operated Soviet combat aircraft of its generation. Chinese-built versions, designated H-5, further expanded the aircraft’s worldwide service. Il-28s participated in several Cold War conflicts, including fighting in the Middle East and Africa. North Vietnam also operated the Il-28 during the Vietnam War, although its small bomber force saw very limited operational use compared with North Vietnamese fighters and transports.

As more advanced jet bombers and tactical strike aircraft entered service, the Soviet Union gradually withdrew the Il-28 from frontline duties, but the type continued flying with foreign operators for decades. Its widespread service, adaptability, and role in introducing jet-powered tactical bombing to numerous air forces made the NATO-designated “Beagle” one of the most significant light bombers of the early Cold War.

Service Branch: Soviet Air Forces; numerous Soviet-allied air forces
Soviet Service: 1950–1980s
Number Built: 6,700+ (including licensed production)

What’s Included:

For both the USSR and North Vietnam versions

• 12 1.5” square counter images
• 24 1” square counter images
• 35 .75” square counter images
• 40 .625” square counter images
• Numbered Images to assist with game organization and tracking
• Printable PDF format for personal gaming use

Each image size is contained on a ½ sheet.

• Enables users to save paper and print 2 types of aircraft on the same page.
• Print one set of aircraft images then reverse the page in the printer and print a second type of your choice on the same page.