Very rare cockpit radio remains from Russian Ilyushin Il-2 Sturmovik 2118283 shot down by German ace Jakob Norz on 16 September in Norway

Copilot said:

This is a rare cockpit radio component recovered from one of the most famous Soviet aircraft of the Second World War, the Ilyushin Il-2 Sturmovik.

The relic consists of remains of the aircraft's radio equipment and retains a surprising amount of original detail. Traces of the original paintwork remain clearly visible, including areas of the characteristic light green cockpit finish. The piece also retains numerous original electrical components and sections of wiring. As a result of the crash, the part has been torn and bent, but it remains in solid condition and has been carefully cleaned and preserved. It displays exceptionally well and would make an excellent addition to any aviation, military, or battlefield relic collection.

The component measures approximately 9 inches long by 8 inches wide.

This radio was recovered from Ilyushin Il-2 Sturmovik serial number 2118283 of 46th ShAP, Soviet Northern Fleet Air Force (VVS SF). The aircraft was shot down on 16 September 1944 during an air battle over the Ropelv area of Finnmark, Norway, by German fighter ace Leutnant Jakob "Jochel" Norz of 11./JG 5 flying a Messerschmitt Bf 109.

Despite successfully shooting down the Sturmovik, Norz's aircraft was itself hit by return fire from the Il-2's rear gunner. The German fighter subsequently crashed nearby, killing Norz. This was his 117th and final aerial victory.

The burning Sturmovik managed to perform a forced landing near Ropelv. The pilot, Lieutenant B. V. Titov, was fatally injured during the crash landing and died at the scene. The rear gunner, Sergeant Yu. I. Minejev, survived and was later captured by German forces after they located the crash site while searching for Norz's aircraft.

The part comes from a long-established private collection, assembled over many years by a dedicated aviation historian who personally visited numerous crash sites across Northern Europe. The collection includes both surface-recovered items and components from professionally excavated aircraft wrecks, many of which are being offered for sale for the first time.

Included are two A5 laminated information cards featuring photographs of the crash site, historical research, and background information relating to the aircraft, crew, and combat action.

A scarce and historically significant relic from a documented wartime loss, connected to both a famous Soviet ground-attack aircraft and the final combat victory of one of JG 5's leading aces.