Soviet Naval Aviation 1946 – 1991
By Chris Banyai-Riepl
Authors: Yefim Gordon & Dmitriy Komissarov
Publisher: Hikoki Publications
ISBN: 978-1-9021093-1-2
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 368
There is no truer examination of the concerns of the Soviet Union than their naval forces. While the United States developed a massive offensive armada centered around a large fleet of aircraft carriers, the Soviet Navy focused on developing a solid and diverse littoral combat force aimed at securing and dominating their shores. This title from Hikoki Publications examines the Soviet Naval Aviation (AVMF) as a whole, from flying boats to helicopters to the impressive Ekranoplan ground effect designs.
The book begins with an overview of Soviet naval aviation in the immediate post-war years, as it made the transition from combat to peacetime activities. Following this introduction, the book then examines the different types of aircraft and their mission. This begins with probably the largest use: maritime reconnaissance. Knowing what's out there is critical to preparing a solid defense, so the maritime reconnaissance force saw extensive use. This is followed by the AVMF Strike Force and the submarine hunters, then by naval fighters and strike aircraft and auxiliary & special mission aircraft. Each of these sections provides a good overview of the operations of each section, with extensive photo documentation backing up the well-written text.
Following these overview chapters, the book then looks at when the Cold War heated up with various clashes between Soviet and Western forces. These stories, while perhaps not as numerous as one might think, do help put a more personal face on the buildup of Soviet naval aviation, and help put their story in context. The book also provides a section on the Soviet aircraft carriers. Finally, there is a chapter dedicated solely to the aircraft used by the AVMF.
This is an excellent book for those interested in Cold War Soviet aircraft, or naval aviation as a whole. My thanks to Specialty Press for the review copy.