The DB-3 could operate as both a long-range bomber and a torpedo bomber. Its crews valued reach, usefulness, and reliability more than one spectacular performance figure. It served with the Republic of China Air Force, saw Soviet employment around the Winter War, and later took part in the first Soviet bombing raids on Berlin. That record provides the baseline for understanding why the substantially altered Il-4 should not simply be treated as the same aircraft under another name.
Chapter · 12:21-14:16
DB-3 reliability made it broadly useful
The DB-3 is introduced as a long-range bomber and torpedo bomber that served China, Finland, and Soviet naval aviation before and during the war.