I've heard a few people had problems with this mission, however I couldn't see what the fuss was about, and I beat it first time!
(Keep in mind I played on realistic though, probably much harder on sim).
Anyway, I never took out any of the lights. Just find your targets and sick your wingmen on 'em for extra help. The IL-2 isn't the most nimble plane, so stay patient and don't fire until you have a good shot. Hopefully your wingmen will take a lot of the work off your back.
Not much more help I can give, unless you have anything specific your having difficulties with on the mission?