in the design, the decision was made not to produce the aircraft due to a reduction in requirements for the type with the end of the war in May of that year. A proposed diesel-engined version, which began flight tests in July 1945, met the same fate. Proving in service to be underpowered yet still easy to fly, and establishing a reputation for reliability and ease of maintenance, the Shche-2 was widely used by Soviet forces during the war. Seeing extensive service supplying guerrilla and partisan forces, the Shche-2 also proved to be useful for the delivery of paratroopers. It is estimated that at least 550 Shche-2 aircraft were completed before the close of production in 1946, the OKB-47 factory being closed down at the conclusion of production. After the end of the war, the aircraft remained in service for several years, with the air forces of Yugoslavia and Poland making use of the type, in addition to the aircraft being extensively utilised in transport and air ambulance duties in civilian service within the Soviet Union. In addition, the Shche-2 was operated by Aeroflot on several local airline routes within the Soviet Union for several years after the end of the war, before its replacement by the Antonov An-2. Operators Civil operators Aeroflot Military operators Polish Air Force – 5 aircraft, used 1945–1947. Soviet Air Force Yugoslav Air Force – 5 aircraft, delivered in 1945, used through 1952. Specifications (Shche-2) See also References Notes Bibliography Dexter, Keith. The Numbered Factories and Other Establishments of the Soviet Defence Industry, 1928 to 1967: a Guide, Part II. Research & Design Establishments: Version 1.0. University of Warwick, Department of Economics, July 2000. PDF link. Donald, David, ed. The Complete Encyclopedia of World Aircraft. London: Orbis, 1997. . Shche-2 1940s Soviet military transport aircraft High-wing aircraft Aircraft first flown in 1942 Twin piston-engined tractor aircraft