Largely unknown outside of Russia, the Ermolaev Er-2 enjoyed a long and complicated development history, and enjoyed an enviable service record. Despite the modest numbers of machines produced, the Er-2 employed a host of engine types, while the fuselage design remained largely unchanged right through the War.
The Er-2 was popular in service with its crews, and participated in many heroic encounters. Er-2s played a key role in the Defense of Moscow, took part in the bombing of Berlin, and conducted very long duration patrols over the Baltic coastline, almost always without escort. Examples of both major versions were still in service in 1945 with several Regiments.
