In June 1941 Adolf Hitler launched Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of Russia and the defining moment of World War 2. Drawing upon his knowledge as a professional pilot and on detailed researches, Andrew Brookes examines the history of the aerial war on the Eastern Front. Covering the war chronologically, the author initially examines the strategic balance before analysing the role of the Luftwaffe in the first phase of Barbarossa, with the Germans again adopting their Blitzkrieg tactics. Subsequent chapters record the changing strategic balance as the Russians employ more potent aircraft, including many supplied through the Arctic convoys by Britain and the USA, as the tide of war turned against the Germans. Supplementing the authors well-researched and authoritative text are over 160 mono illustrations including line drawings and contemporary photographs.