The VYa-23 cannon is a beast and not running it with the armored targets belts is a crime since this thing can reliably gun down light and medium tanks. Similarly the ShKAS with its insane ROF is probably the best 7.62 machine gun in the game.
The low speed performance of the airframe is surprisingly good and you can surprise many an opponent with a timely pitch up or a hard pull. Most of them will not give you the respect you deserve. The airframe can also take a beating which is another thing that will be invaluable for potential reversals or gunner kills.
Awesomeness rating: extremely awesome