Dating back to 1953, the twin-engined transport was a development of the Il-12. Over 1000 were built, some sources claiming more than 3500.

Sergej Vladimirovich Ilyushin, 1894-1977, Designer Major of the TsKB since 1935, where development of long-range two-engine aircraft was concentrated. The result was Il-4, the best bomber in it's class in the world (according to 'Combat Aircraft Of World War II' and other sources). On his own initiative created the most produced aircraft of the WWII - Il-2 Sturmovik - extremely efficient and reliable ground attack machine. After the War S.V.Ilyushin and his team created many types of civil and military aircraft. Awarded The Hero of The Socialist Labour (highest non-military medal) three times (1941, 1957, 1974). More facts: June 1922 - submitted petition in support of suspened (for political reasons) K.A.Kalinin. It was safe for him at the moment - purges were 'soft' yet and S.V.Ilyushin was a member of the IVF Party organzation. But anyway... Was honored for his designer's and organiser's achievements while studied in the VVA (former IVF), where he was a head of the Engine and the Aviation sections of the scientific-military society.