IL-2 Korea · Reviewed by Growling Sidewinder · Published 2026-06-22
Based on a review by Growling Sidewinder (accessed 2026-06-22).
Based on this review alone: worth considering for devastating 23mm cannons, but large, obstructive object ("cushion thing") in front of the pilot's face reduces visibility is a real trade-off.
The reviewer concludes that while the LA-11's 23mm guns are "absolutely devastating" and "very accurate" in a high-energy slashing role, the aircraft suffers from poor forward visibility and an obstructive cockpit element that makes high-aspect shots and aiming difficult in VR. Despite these drawbacks, with practice, the LA-11 "can actually be quite a threat."
This video offers an early access first look at the LA-11 aircraft in the IL-2 Korea flight simulator, experienced in virtual reality with a Pimax Crystal Super headset. The reviewer demonstrates the aircraft's combat capabilities, focusing on its 23mm cannons against both piston-driven fighters and jet aircraft.
The LA-11 is a conditionally effective piston fighter within IL-2 Korea, proving a significant threat if its unique characteristics are mastered. Its nose-mounted 23mm cannons are extremely devastating and accurate, allowing for easy target hits when a clear shot is available. However, a large, obstructive object constantly in front of the pilot's face severely hinders forward visibility and makes high-aspect shots difficult. Piloting the LA-11 requires adapting to its poor forward visibility and long nose, especially when engaging nimble or distant targets. If you prioritize raw firepower and excel at slashing attacks, the LA-11 is a viable choice; if you require clear forward visibility for close-in dogfights or need to consistently engage fast-moving jets, you should explore other aircraft.
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visual_inspectionneutralt=00:06–00:13
The reviewer is playing IL-2 Korea in virtual reality, specifically using the Pimax Crystal Super headset while flying the LA-11.
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The LA-11 is armed with three NS23 23mm cannons, which the reviewer states are quite devastating.
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The 'big hand thing' in front of the pilot's face in VR is very distracting when trying to gun down an enemy.
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The 23mm guns are described as 'absolutely devastating' after a successful hit on an enemy aircraft.
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The reviewer believes the LA-11 will struggle to hit aircraft in high-aspect situations due to the amount of lead required and visibility.
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The LA-11 performs 'pretty decently' against other piston fighters like the P-51 at lower altitudes.
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The 23mm cannons are 'pretty accurate' because they are nose-mounted, making them easy to hit targets and 'absolutely shred.'
comparisonnegativet=02:05–02:09
The F-80 jet is almost double the speed of the LA-11, making it very difficult for the LA-11 to keep up.
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The reviewer's assessment is that the LA-11 performs 'pretty well' against piston-driven aircraft.
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The 23mm cannon is described as even 'more devastating' than a .50 cal machine gun, which aligns with its larger caliber.
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The 'thing in front of your face' is obstructive, and the LA-11's long nose makes high-aspect shots difficult and results in 'not the best forward visibility.'
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Due to the central, nose-mounted nature of the guns, aiming center mass often results in hitting the pilot for 'easy kills.'
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The LA-11 performs 'really, really well' in high-altitude slashing attacks, indicating a strong tactical advantage in certain situations.
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Even the smallest burst from a 23mm cannon is described as 'very devastating for any aircraft,' highlighting its destructive power.
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The forward visibility out of the LA-11 is explicitly stated as 'really, really horrible,' making it challenging to see targets.
The LA-11 features three NS23 23mm cannons that the reviewer consistently describes as "absolutely devastating" and "very accurate," particularly because they are nose-mounted. These guns are effective enough that even a small burst can critically damage an aircraft, often hitting the pilot if aimed center mass.
The reviewer states that the LA-11 performs "pretty decently" and "pretty well" against other piston fighters such as the P-51. It is shown to be effective when diving on these aircraft and maintaining an energy advantage.
The LA-11 faces significant challenges against jet aircraft like the F80, which are noted to be nearly double its speed, making sustained engagement difficult. However, the reviewer suggests it can be effective in high-altitude slashing attacks, catching jets during their climb after a dive.
The reviewer frequently points out that the LA-11 has "really, really horrible" forward visibility, especially in VR. An obstructive cockpit element, referred to as a "big hand thing" or "cushion thing," is constantly in the pilot's face, making it distracting and difficult to aim, particularly in high-aspect situations where significant lead is required.
The LA-11 excels in high-altitude slashing attacks, where the pilot can use an energy advantage to dive on targets, deliver a burst from the devastating 23mm cannons, and then pull away. This tactic is particularly effective against climbing jets or piston fighters unaware of the attacker.
The reviewer suggests that to counter an LA-11, an opponent should "build aspect problems" for the LA-11 pilot, specifically by turning into them. This forces the LA-11 pilot to pull the nose "over the bandit," obscuring their vision and making it very difficult to land hits due to the LA-11's poor forward visibility.
60/100 source quality
This video provides an initial review of the LA-11 fighter in the IL-2 Korea simulator, played in VR with a Pimax Crystal Super. The reviewer highlights the LA-11's powerful 23mm cannons, showcasing their effectiveness in various dogfighting scenarios against P-51s and F80 jets. A recurring point of critique is the aircraft's limited forward visibility and an annoying cockpit obstruction that makes targeting challenging, especially in high-aspect engagements. Despite these visibility issues, the reviewer demonstrates successful combat maneuvers, emphasizing the devastating impact of the LA-11's weaponry when properly aimed.
Full transcript is not redistributed here to respect the original creator’s rights.
This page converts Growling Sidewinder's review of the IL-2 Korea LA-11 into structured evidence — timestamped claims, pros & cons, and buyer questions. It is not the original review and does not replace watching or reading the full source.
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