[2] The film tells the story of Soviet aircraft designers and test pilots who, after the end of World War II, dedicate themselves to mastering MiG jet fighters, often risking their lives in the process.

The plot focuses on three main characters—Viktor (Igor Yasulovich), Yevgeny (Sergey Nikonenko), and Alexei (Gennady Saifullin)—as they return from the war in the Far East and begin working on the development of a new jet aircraft.

Viktor and Yevgeny take positions at an aviation factory as a designer and an engineer, respectively, while Alexei becomes a test pilot for the new technology.

Viktor's wife (Elena Sanaeva) leaves him for a wounded man she nursed in a hospital.

Only Yevgeny manages to maintain a stable and happy family life amidst the professional and personal turmoil.