The Lavochkin La-7 emerged in 1944 as the final and most advanced development of a fighter line that began with the LaGG-1 in 1938 and matured through the La-5. By 1943, the La-5 was a proven frontline aircraft, but Semyon Lavochkin and Soviet engineers at TsAGI believed it could be improved. Refinements to aerodynamics, better sealing of the engine cowling, and changes to the air intake layout were tested on modified La-5 airframes. These experiments showed a marked increase in performance, particularly at medium altitudes, and paved the way for the La-7 design. The new model made use of stronger metal components in place of wood, reflecting improved access to aircraft alloys as the war progressed. The La-7 entered production in early 1944. Initial models retained the La-5’s two 20 mm ShVAK cannon, though later versions were fitted with three B-20 cannon for greater firepower. Powered by the Shvetsov ASh-82FN radial engine, it reached top speeds of around 660 km/h, outperforming many German fighters at low and medium altitudes. However, early production suffered from problems such as defective propellers, wing flaws, and engine reliability issues linked to dust intake from the relocated air intakes. These setbacks caused delays and accidents before adjustments were made, but once corrected, the La-7 demonstrated strong reliability and combat effectiveness. The aircraft entered combat in late 1944 and was quickly embraced by Soviet pilots. In the final months of the war, La-7 squadrons took part in the push into Eastern Europe, where they proved capable of matching the best piston-engined German fighters. Ace pilots, including Ivan Kozhedub, the top Allied fighter ace of the war, achieved many of their victories in the La-7. Production continued until early 1946, with 5,753 built. The fighter remained in service with the Soviet Air Force until 1947 and with the Czechoslovak Air Force until 1950. As the last and most refined piston fighter of the Lavochkin series, the La-7 closed out the wartime chapter of Soviet piston-engined aviation before the jet age began.