P-40E flown by Major Pyotr Afanasevich Pokryshev, commander of 154 IAP. Leningrad Front 1942.
Pokryshev was an experienced pilot in the northern sectors, even flying combat missions against the Finns during the Winter War in 1939-1940. He rose through the ranks to lead 154 IAP and was one of the first leaders in the Soviet Air Force to implement formations of fighting pairs, ala the American "Finger-four" and German "Schwarm". He spent the entire war fighting in the Leningrad area, downing 22 enemies and earning Hero of the Soviet Union twice.
Pokryshev's aircraft was provided to the Soviet VVS through Lend-Lease and had no previous American or British markings. Soviet stars and the white spinner of the Leningrad Front's Air Army were added upon delivery. Yellow and red victory stars indicate personal and shared kills.
