So near, yet so far.
IL-2 1946 only recognises a maximum of 4 controllers. If, like me you have more than it may not be possible to configure. I had 3 devices when I installed it in 2020. In 2024 I have 6 controllers and I couldn't get joystick #1 to be recognised.
I did manage to get off the ground using a combination of mouse for elevator and the mini-joystick on my WINWING Takeoff Panel for ailerons.
But this would be beyond my capabilities to perform ACM in... !
As it was I got low and slow in a turn and parked the MB-339 on a hillside.
What a shame as I don't mind the dated terrain and a/c models. The sim runs smooth as silk in 2024 on a RTX-2080.