TAMIYA SCHWEINHUND!

1/24 CAR 1/48 SE.5a Wolseley

Closing date: February 23, 2018 KITS! Viper from Eduard
Feb 2018
Issue 87

FLYING HATCHET
Adding extras to Airfix’s 1/48
Tomahawk Mk.IIb

80+
REVIEWS
INSIDE

PLUS 1/72
1/444 RIVET JOINT • MiG-23 HISTORY • SWISS AIR FORCE F-5s
LATÉCOÈRE 28-3 • LATEST SCALE MODELLING NEWS...

MONSTER MiG
Trumpeter’s 1/32 £4.50
MiG-23P
Flogger-G

PILOTS’ NEMESIS
Dragon’s 1/35 FlakPanzer IV ‘Ostwind’
 Royal Air Force Annual Review 2018
Produced by Key Publishing with exclusive access
to the Royal Air Force, The Official RAF Annual
Review 2018 is a 132-page special magazine
providing behind the scenes insight into the
aircraft, equipment, people and operations of
one of the world’s premier air forces.
FEATURING
Reaper Reality
The Officer Commanding XIII Squadron, one of two RAF
units flying the Reaper remotely piloted air system, talks
frankly about the aircraft, its capabilities and how the RAF
operates it.

A Bright New Future

Introducing five new aircraft types – Juno, Jupiter, Phenom,
Prefect and Texan, the UK’s Military Flying Training System is
starting its first ab initio course imminently.

To The Ends Of The Earth

Wing Commander Ed Horne, Officer Commanding LXX
Squadron, explains how the Atlas is excelling in the strategic
transport role.

A Tumultuous Year
Officer Commanding Battle of Britain Memorial Flight
Squadron Leader Andy ‘Milli’ Millikin and ex-OC Squadron
Leader Clive Rowley MBE RAF (Retd) look back on the
Flight’s 60th anniversary year.

1208/17

AVAILABLE NOW FROM AND ALL LEADING NEWSAGENTS

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SU B SC RIB E RS C ALL FOR YOUR £1.00 D IS COUNT! S UB S C R IB E R S C A L L FOR YOUR £1.00 DI S CO U N T!


D
ue to our deadline, I’m
writing this editorial in
December, and by the time
you’re reading it, Christmas
will have gone…but I hope you all
had a good time, with plenty of
plastic-based treats or books.
Editor: Chris Clifford
Assistant Editor: Stu Fone
Editor's Secretary: Melissa Smith
Contributors this issue:
Dave Oliver, Guy Holroyd, Terry Higgins,
Kev Baxter, Joe Turner, Toni Canfora,
Garry Tobiss, Massimo Santarossa,
Eric Larson
Designer: Tom Bagley
Chief Designer: Steve Donovan
Group Editor: Nigel Price
Production Manager: Janet Watkins
Commercial Director: Ann Saundry
Group Advertising Manager: Brodie Baxter
Sales Executive: Elizabeth Ridge
Sales Executive: Hollie Keeling
Ad Production Manager: Debi McGowan
Group Marketing Manager: Martin Steele
Marketing Manager: Shaun Binnington
Subscriptions and Mail Order: Liz Ward
Managing Director: Adrian Cox
Executive Chairman: Richard Cox
WELCOME TO ISSUE 87
I love a new aircraft, military
or modelling-related tome to
flick through over Christmas, in
between classic films that always
appear over the festive season; the
Great Escape? Again? Yes!
Last year was very busy for Stu
and me, from our usual AMW
editing, to managing bookazines
and Combat Machines volumes.
The pace is such that one almost
forgets what’s been released, but
certain items are indelible, such
as Airfix’s 1/72 Phantom FG.1 and
Zoukei-Mura’s 1/48 US F-4s.
This year looks set to be owned by
the legendary Panther. While 2017
produced a swathe of King Tigers
and Abrams, we can now expect
Panthers from Rye Field, Takom
and Meng. The Panther is one of
my all-time favourite tanks, so I’ll
Key Publishing Ltd, PO Box 100,
Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1XQ, UK.
Distributed by: Seymour Distribution Ltd,
2 Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PP.
Tel: 020 7429 4000. Fax: 020 7429 4001.
Printed by: Warners (Midland) plc, Bourne.
Printed in England (ISSN 1471-0587).
Subscriptions:
Please refer to main advertisement within
the magazine. All applications stating name,
address, date to commence and remittance to:
Subscriptions Department, Airfix Model World,
Key Publishing Ltd, P0 Box 300, Stamford,
Lincolnshire, PE9 1NA, UK.
Telephone/9.00-5.30 Monday-Friday GMT
+44 (0) 1780 480404, Fax: +44 (0) 1780 757812
E-Mail: subs@keypublishing.com
Airfix Model World (ISSN: 1471-0587) is published
monthly by Key Publishing Ltd, P0 Box 300,
Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1NA, UK and
facebook.com/airfixmodelworld
www.airfixmodelworld.com
be as keen as many other military
modellers to see how these kits
take shape, and which sub-types
will be issued.
The best news of all for me so
far is a newly tooled 1/48 Hawker
Hunter from Airfix. While there
are not as many completely new
offerings from the company this
year, it’s making up for it in interest
levels; a 1/72 Vickers Wellington
and 1/48 Bristol Blenheim will
undoubtedly win over legions of
modellers. The Hunter really does
it for me though, as I’ve loved the
real aircraft since my youth, and
was lucky enough to train on and
see service examples up close
while in the RAF.
This allows me to segue into
the fact that keen-eyed readers
may have noticed the lack of a
distributed in the USA by UKP Worldwide,
3390 Rand Road, South Plainfield, NJ 07080.
Periodicals postage paid at Rahway, NJ and at
additional mailing offices. Readers in the USA
can place subscriptions by visiting
www.airfixmodelworld.com or by calling toll
free 800-428-3003 or fax 757-428-6253 or by
writing to Airfix Model World, 3330 Pacific Ave,
Ste 500, Virginia Beach, VA23451-9828.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:
Airfix Model World, Key Publishing Ltd, c/o 3390
Rand Road, South Plainfield NJ 07080.
All items submitted for publication are subject
to our terms and conditions. These are
regularly updated without prior notice and are
freely available from www.keypublishing.com
The entire contents of Airfix Model World
is © copyright, and no part of it may be
reproduced in any form or stored on any
form of retrieval system without the prior
permission of the publisher.
EDITOR'S DESK
WELCOME
Like us!
Visit us!
Plastic Surgery page in this issue.
‘Department’ items such as this,
and its forerunners Kit Court
and Cutting Mat Chat, all have a
natural lifespan before it’s time for
a refresh. Our new closing page
each month, Archive Treasures,
will offer a peachy image from the
Key Publishing photo collection.
Sometimes it might be linked to
that issue’s content, or it could
be my random choice in that it’s
simply a splendid shot. The Hunter
F.6 I discovered for this issue was a
‘no-brainer’. Happy New Year, and
enjoy the issue.
Chris Clifford, Editor
chris.clifford@keypublishing.com
SUBSCRIBE
AND SAVE!
A subscription to Airfix Model World
offers great savings on cover price.
See pages 74-75 for details.
“AIRFIX’’ is a registered trade mark of Hornby
Hobbies Limited and is used under licence.
We are unable to guarantee the bona fides of
any of our advertisers. Readers are strongly
recommended to take their own precautions
before parting with any information or
item of value, including, but not limited to,
money, manuscripts, photographs or personal
information in response to any advertisements
within this publication.
To find a stockist near you,
visit airfixmodelworld.com
The average sale for the period
Jan – Dec 2016 was 12,730 print
and digital copies monthly.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 3
 CONTENTS
WHAT'S INSIDE?

REGULARS
06 News
The latest happenings in the world
of plastic modelling.
14
12 Show Scene
At-a-glance model show calendar.

74 Subscribe
and Save!
A subscription to Airfix Model
World offers great savings on
cover price. See pages 74-75
for details.

76 On the Shelf
Seventeen pages of reviews
highlight the latest modelling and
reference products.

98 Archive
Treasures
Our new closing item offers a

WIN!
stunning reference image each
month. In this issue it’s the
Hawker Hunter F.6.

TAMIYA KITS
Win 1/24 car kits, courtesy of
UK importer The Hobby
Company. See page 48.

80+ REVIEWS
Latest modelling
products

30

58

4 Airfix Model World

 CONTENTS
WHAT'S INSIDE?

50

FEATURES
14 Advanced Build – Monster MiG
Dave Oliver adds a wealth of aftermarket and scratch-built embellishment
to Trumpeter’s 1/32 MiG-23 Flogger-G.

22 In Focus – Flogger Fighters

The in-service career of the MiG-23’s interceptor variants is described by
Guy Holroyd.

28 In Focus – Alpine Tigers

Kev Baxter offers photographic highlights of Swiss Air Force F-5s, at what
could be their last attendance of the Axalp gunnery meet.

30 Intermediate Build – Sky Sweeper

Airfix Model World’s junior modeller, Joe Turner, does a fine job of finishing
Dragon’s 1/35 Flakpanzer IV Ostwind.

40 Advanced Build – Postal Pioneer

Toni Canfora discovers that SBS Model’s all-resin Latécoère 28-3 floatplane
is for experienced modellers only…but the result can be superb.

48 Competition – Free prize draw

Win Tamiya 1/24 car kits, courtesy of UK importer The Hobby Company.

50 Intermediate Build – Native American

Weapon
Garry Tobiss employs aftermarket detail – and trials Mission Models’ new
paints – on Airfix’s forthcoming 1/48 Curtiss Tomahawk Mk.IIb.

58 Intermediate Build – Red Goose Snooper

Minicraft’s 1/144 KC-135 is transformed into an RAF RC-135W Rivet Joint by
Massimo Santarossa, who employed S&M Models’ bespoke conversion.

66 Intermediate Build – Schweinhund!

Eric Larson tackles Eduard’s splendid new-tool 1/48 SE.5a, in Wolseley
Viper configuration.

Your favourite magazine is available digitally.

See airfixmodelworld.com for more details.

You can also find us on:

Search ‘Airfix Model World’
66

www.airfixmodelworld.com 5
 NEWS BULLETIN
LATEST UPDATES
CAMM’S JET-POWERED LEGEND
A NEWLY-TOOLED 1/48 Hawker
Hunter F.6 is Airfix’s flagship
release for 2018.
Having already provoked much
interest with its forthcoming
1/72 Wellington and 1/48
Blenheim for this year, the
Hunter kit should set new
levels of excitement. It’s most
welcome, as Academy’s same-
RAF DECAL BONANZA
JAPAN'S PLATZ is best known for its
plastic kits, but it also offers decals.
The fact is exemplified with this
useful new selection of RAF
markings, which will be a boon for
any modeller of 1/72 World War
Two subjects. The six sheets offer a
wealth of items;
KD7-1 carries Type A and B roundels,
fin flashes and rank pennants (from
Squadron Leader up to Air Marshal),
and KD7-2 has Type A1 and C 1
roundels (yellow outlines), fin flashes,
yellow prototype ‘P’ circles, and
small national markings for Poland,
Czechoslovakia and France.
6 Airfix Model World
BREAKING
scale offering has its flaws,
including undersized cockpit
features and ‘gappy’ fit in
places. Airfix’s CAD drawings
show trademark features
being rendered well; ‘Sabrina’
link collectors, cartridge case
ejection ports, separate flaps,
the annular jet pipe nozzle and
airbrake all look good.
More exotic devices appear on KD7-3,
in the form of SEAC roundels and fin
flashes, as well as standard red and
blue Type B roundels and fin flashes,
and Red Cross markings.
Fuselage codes and serials in
Medium Sea Grey and Dull Red, sized
for fighters, fill the carrier sheet
for KD7-4, while KD7-5 has white
code letters/numbers and serials,
and ROYAL NAVY legends. Sheet
KD7-6 offers the same but in black,
while the final item, KD7-7, seals the
deal with fighter-sized code letters/
numbers in Sky Type S.
www.platz-hobby.com
NEWS
BORN IN CAPTIVITY
THE FACT that Pe-2 designer VM
Petlyakov came up with the idea
of this sleek twin-engined type
while in prison – during Stalin’s
purges – is fascinating.
It’s just one historical snippet
among many filling the
instructions of Eduard’s re-boxing
of the Zvezda 1/48 Pe-2, a build
of which featured in September
2017’s AMW. This new limited-
edition package (#11112 ‘Peshka’),
matches Zvezda’s superb styrene
parts with Eduard photo-etched
metal (pre-coloured and plain
brass), tape masks, Brassin resin
Three colour schemes will
feature; there’s XF418/16 with
red spine/tail, flown by the
RAF’s 1 TWU, Brawdy, while
the other British option is
XF509/73 of 4 FTS. An export
version is represented by N-208
of the Royal Netherlands Air
Force…all wear two-tone green
and grey upper camouflage.
For further details visit:
www.airfix.com
wheels, propeller blades and
spinners, and a clear fuselage
ceiling window. Decals are by
Cartograf and the beautifully
printed sheet carries markings for
five Soviet Pe-2s…three sporting
patriotic slogans of the World War
Two period.
Zvezda’s plastic comprises
seven busy grey-coloured
styrene runners, and one clear,
and the detail is admirable, with
very fine engraving and rivets,
one complete engine and well-
appointed cockpit/bomb bay
areas. www.eduard.com
 KIWI BLOODSUCKER
JAYS MODEL Kits has
repackaged Heller’s original
1/72 de Havilland Vampire
FB.5 under the Tasman label.
This boxing (UG3001),
provides the standard kit
styrene runners, but with
a crystal-clear vacform
canopy...and all-new decals
by Oldmodels, for Royal New
Zealand Air Force aircraft in
the Medium Sea Grey, Dark
Green and PRU Blue scheme
(14 and 75 Squadrons).
While the styrene is old, a very respectable result…the beyond ‘shake and bake’.
re-scribing and just basic package is ideal for modellers For more details, visit: www.
scratch-building can produce who prefer to venture jaysmodelkits.com

MODERN FIGHTER HUES

ALCLAD’S AIRBRUSH-ready Aggressor Blue, ALCE614 ALCE616 Dark Grey Blue
Mil-Spec enamels range has Light Grey FS 36495, ALCE615 White. Further details are at:
gained plenty of fans, and the Skyline Blue FS 35250, www.alclad2-online.co.uk
latest eight colours will appeal
to builders of modern aircraft.
All are in Alclad’s standard
30ml glass jars (with agitator
ball to ensure the paint is
well mixed) and cater for
US Aggressor aircraft and
Russian Flankers.. The colours
are: ALCE609 Air Superiority
Blue, ACLE610 Mod Eagle
Grey, ALCE611 Aggressor Grey,
ALCE612 White Grey, ALCE613

SUPERMARINE SNOOPER
PHOTO-RECONNAISSANCE
Spitfires always seem
to be overlooked by kit
manufacturers, but thankfully
AlleyCat Models has produced
a 1/48 PR.IV conversion set.
Designed to fit Airfix’s recent
Mk.Vb, this resin and photo-
etched (PE) brass product
(AC48061C) comprises new
gunless wings, a clear resin
canopy and windscreen (the
latter cast integrally with the
oil tank cover). PE components
include camera ports, along
with various panel and aperture
drilling and scribing templates,
easing the conversion work
greatly. No decals are included,
as PR Spitfire markings were
relatively sparse (just roundels,
fin flash and fuselage serial
number), so modellers will need
to use kit or aftermarket items.
For more information, visit:
www.alleycatmodels.co.uk
NEWS BULLETIN
LATEST UPDATES
{in brief}
PHOTO ‘PHAREWELL’
Aftermarket decal firm Syhart has released
the dazzling retirement scheme applied
to the Hellenic Air Force’s RF-4E Phantom
II ‘7499’. Item 72-100 offers everything one
needs to portray this smart black and orange
aircraft (from the 348 TRS), with Greek flag
colours on the rear fuselage and tail, and
clever ‘shutter’ motif on the underside. Aside
from the three separate decal sheets, there’s
also the option of either using decals alone,
or employing the masks provided to render
some of the livery with paint. Mixing ratios
for the latter are provided for the required
blue shade, and the set is also available in
1/48 scale, via product 48-100. For further
information visit: www.syhartdecal.fr
START AND FINISH
Ultimate modelling Products has released
two new items, for use at either end of the
modelling process.
The first is a gloss black primer, while the
second is a wash with the name Algae…
ideal for amphibious military vehicles
that have spent extensive time in water,
or standard water-borne crafts of all
kinds. The wash could also be used on
dockside dioramas for that extra helping of
authenticity. For more details visit:
www.umpretail.com
8 Airfix Model World
EXQUISITE ‘MIGHTY MO’
MODELS ARE just like buses (nothing
for ages, then two at once), whether
it's tanks, aircraft…or in this case
battleships.
Academy is one of two companies
(the other is Meng) to release new
1/700 USS Missouri kits, and its
basic boxing (14222) comprises eight
pre-coloured runners, with separate
upper and lower hulls (grey and
hull red styrene respectively), and
bridge parts. There is exquisite detail
on the well-moulded components,
notably on the single-piece Mk.28
FRONT-ENGINED FIGHTER SUPER-FIRING
GIVEN THE recent slew of 1/35
Merkavas, it’s surprising Takom’s
offering is just the second of the
original Mk.1, the other being
Tamiya’s 1988-vintage kit.
The former’s Mk.I Hybrid (2079)
takes six of the Mk.I’s styrene
runners (plus the lower hull, towing
cable and photo-etched brass
fret), and adds a new upper hull
and turret, and three additional
frames. Together, these capture the
differences between the basic and
hybrid variants, notably the revised
exhausts, heavier side skirts,
ball-and-chain turret overhang
protection, front roadwheels,
night-vision devices and hatch
covers. The moulding is first-class,
and Takom is to be commended
Mod 2 twin-gun turrets and quad
40mm Bofors mounts. Waterline and
full-hull configurations are possible,
and a stand is supplied for the latter;
for its research efforts, as even
the smallest details have been
captured, down to bolt heads on
the rubber hatch stops. If there is
a minor gripe, it’s the lack of the
Merkava’s conspicuous anti-slip
surface texture, which must be
added separately. Rather than
supply paper or styrene tank
identification banners, Takom has
included a length of soft metal
sheet, which is far easier to work
with and looks more realistic.
Thankfully, modellers needing
references need look no further
than Desert Eagle Publishing’s
book on the type (see Reviews,
p.77), which is packed with useful
information and walk-round photos.
www.pocketbond.co.uk
the fit of the upper and lower hull
components negates the need for
glue. The Modeller’s Edition (14223)
retains all the styrene and adds a
photo-etched metal fret for railings
and closed chocks, but the standout
item is the delicate 15-piece SK-2 air
search radar antenna. The treats
don’t stop there, as there is a self-
adhesive deck masking set which,
while appearing fragile, will simplify
painting greatly. The single scheme
(with decal boot line) depicts the ship
in Measure 22 camouflage during
1945. Additional information is at:
www.pocketbond.co.uk
PROTOTYPE
OF THE many Soviet tank designs,
the T-100 is one of those oddities
that never left the prototype
stage, but has been released by
OKB Grigorov as a 1/72 resin kit.
For modellers unfamiliar with this
firm's products, they’re in for a
treat; the casting is sublime, and
the detail rivals/betters that from
high-end styrene manufacturers.
No interior is supplied, but as the
turrets are solid items, this isn’t
an issue, and most of the 130-plus
components are dedicated to
running gear and numerous hull
fittings. There are photo-etched
brass frets for the lifting eyes,
track guard stays and engine
grilles, while the tracks are
three-piece items, which must be
bent round the idler, drive and
roadwheels. This is a great subject
(and surprisingly large – almost
twice the length of a Panzer IV),
and has been executed superbly.
Visit: www.okbgrigorov.com
 JACQUIE’S SILVER BIRD
AIRCRAFT FLOWN by female
pilots always make refreshing
subjects, and so it is with the
machine represented by Arctic
Decals’ new conversion set.
Here, the firm supplies resin
BIPLANE
SHOCKER
KIT MANUFACTURERS like to
promote what they’re creating
before the items hit the
shelves…and Wingnut Wings is
no different.
But the firm sprang an early
Christmas present on us last
month, with the unannounced
release of a 1/32 Sopwith 5F.1
Dolphin. Wingnut’s boxing comes
with decals for five interesting
colour schemes:
C3785 based at RNAS Dover
in early 1918, C3803 ‘Red Star
6’ in March 1918, C3824/U of C
Flight 23 Squadron during May-
July 1918, C3879/Q of C Flight
79 Squadron, August-November
1918, and C8163/A of A Flight
87 Squadron, August-November
1918. Look out for a build in AMW
soon. www.wingnutwings.com
parts cast by Dekno Models,
decals and a vacform canopy
with which to convert the
Azur-Fromm Northrop Gamma
2E into Jacqueline Cochran’s
Gamma 2G, the most notable
WHISPERING GIANT
A GAP in the range of 1/72
RAF transport aircraft kits
has been filled by a new
Bristol Britannia from French
company Mach 2.
This firm’s products are
certainly not for the beginner,
as they demand much
preparation and neatening
…but the quality improves
with every release; when
one considers the proprietor,
Didier Palix, masters and
moulds his styrene kits at
home, the results are actually
rather impressive.
difference being the inline
engine instead of a radial unit.
Cochran was the foremost
female air racer and test pilot
of her generation, and was
instrumental in the formation
of the US Women’s Auxiliary
Army Corps and Women
Airforce Service Pilots.
Arctic’s set (ARC72-K01)
provides a new resin fuselage,
nose, vertical tail, spinner
and prop, and other items
to convert the base kit, so
one can portray the Gamma
2G built exclusively for
Cochran. This airframe,
with Conqueror engine, was
eventually re-worked with
a Pratt & Whitney unit and
leased to movie mogul and
aviation pioneer Howard
Hughes. Cockpit parts are also
provided, as are tape masks
and two clear lenses; the
instructions are superb, with
plenty of historical, structural
and colour information.
For further details visit:
www.arcticdecals.com
This kit (#GP087), offers
RAF Transport Command
markings, the scheme being
the 1960s-70s white and
either bare metal or Light
Aircraft Grey, with a blue
cheatline. This is a sizeable
model, with a fuselage
length of 20in (52cm) and
wingspan of 23½in (60cm),
and there are is a full cockpit,
undercarriage bays and
individual windows. The decals
are for XM496 ‘Regulus’, but
there is also a civilian boxing
available. www.mach2.fr
 NEWS BULLETIN
LATEST UPDATES
ALL-NEW PAINTS
LATE LAST year, Spain's AK
Interactive launched its Real Color
range of alcohol-based acrylics
(commonly called acrylic lacquers)
to great fanfare.
It also demonstrated the products
at Scale ModelWorld 2017, where
the paint received universal
acclaim for its fine pigment, ease
of airbrushing and speedy drying.
There are 114 colours to date,
including varnishes and clear
tones, and these are split into
Standard, World War II and Modern
HOPLITE PACKAGE
POLISH FIRM ModelMaker
Publishing has released a
superb book-decal combo
surrounding the Mi-2 helicopter.
A volume in the Aeromax series,
‘Polish Aviation Colours Mil-Mi2
‘Hoplite’ Army & Air Force’ is a
softback A4 book, packed with
imagery (black and white, and
colour) of the Mi-2, showing its
varied camouflage schemes,
including special liveries for
aero-medical and search-and-
rescue roles. Unit emblems
are also studied in detail via
close-up photos, and whole-
airframe views to demonstrate
placement. Walk-round photos
are also supplied, along with
10 Airfix Model World
categories, with further sub-
divisions for American, Russian,
British and German hues. So far,
just standard and military tones
have been released, but those for
aircraft are expected soon.
Formulation and composition of
these paints has been undertaken
with AK’s typical thoroughness,
with particular attention paid to
achieving the closest possible
match to historical colours,
including study of museum/
restored vehicles and aircraft.
While the firm’s proprietary thinner
is recommended for diluting the
paint, alternatives from Tamiya and
Mr. Hobby are also compatible. If its
washes and weathering products
are anything to go by, this new
range is likely to be very popular.
Additional details are at:
www.akrealcolors.com and
www.ak-interactive.com
pleasing colour profiles (with
plan and underside views) of
two special schemes. The latter
features large and impressive
Spartan Hoplite artwork on the
engine and fuselage panels;
best of all, though, is that one
receives three sheets of decals
(just the main offering is shown
here), in 1/72 and 1/48 scales.
These allow the replication of
numerous Mi-2s from the Polish
Army/Air Force, and the printing
and register are splendid…
perfect for anyone building kits
by Aero Team, Hobby Boss,
Okit, Smer, Aeroplast or other
manufacturers. For further
details, or to order, visit:
www.modelmaker.com.pl
BRAVE RETREAT
WITH CHRISTOPHER Nolan’s film
Dunkirk having impressed critics
and movie-goers last year, these
new books from Stratus/MMP
should also fire the imagination.
Dunkirk 1940 Through a German
Lens, offers a study of Dunkirk
via photos from ordinary German
soldiers who were there…not the
professional images taken by
propaganda troops. The result is a
refreshingly different perspective.
Any modeller contemplating
dioramas will find inspiration here,
from understanding the context
of a scene, to the appearance of
ruined buildings. In several photos,
the number of vehicles abandoned younger people, whether they be
on the beach is staggering, and modellers or not, the book has 15
could well provoke thoughts artworks ready to be coloured,
of smaller-scale dioramas, and and these represent relevant
temporary jetties could also be vehicles and aircraft, such as the
portrayed. The only negative Spitfire, Bf 109E, Char B1, Cruiser
aspect of this 88-page softback Tank Mk.I, Hawker Hurricane,
book, is the lack of punctuation and Pz.Kpfw.I, II and III. Each
in certain captions and the subject has a facing page filled
introductory text (and spelling
mistakes).
with a photo, and characteristics/
performance/armament data…
A very different focus is ensured splendid for young historians or
by the Operation Dynamo Dunkirk those who simply love colouring!
1940 colouring book, by Dariusz For more details, visit:
Grzywacz. Obviously aimed at www.mmpbooks.biz
TERRIFIC TIMBERS
THERE ARE yet more gorgeous
laser-cut wood 1/35 diorama
accessories from Plus Model, in the
form of its Jetty and Gas (petrol)
Stations products.
The former (#500) while outwardly
smaller, is arguably the more
complex, with layered planks to
support the main framework and
decking. There are sufficient parts
for a mooring stage, complete with
resin buffers, an access way (with
railings along one side) and a handy
lifebuoy (also resin). A length of
thread completes the package; once
assembled it’s ready for mooring any
small vessel.
The Gas Station (#494) is an
impressive ensemble…a wooden
building combined with resin fuel
pumps and lighting rig/air pump
(with optional ceramic base), clear which setting this building should
acetate sheet, self-adhesive and be placed, due to the mix of brands,
waterslide markings, a photo-etched languages and signage styles (from
brass fret and cardboard liners/ the early 1930s to at least 1952);
supports. Alas, the instructions are Caltex was common in the Nordic
not so clear-cut, and an in-depth countries and Netherlands, but
study of these is required. This pump prices are in dollars. For more
vagueness extends to exactly in information visit: www.plusmodel.cz
 C

CM

MY

CY

CMY

The Destination for Militar y Histor y

NAVAL WARFARE
Osprey Publishing offers over 200 books examining
everything from Roman triremes and Napoleonic naval
battles to the warships that rule the waves today.

T O V I E W O U R E N T I R E N A V A L R A N G E V I S I T W W W. O S P R E Y P U B L I S H I N G . C O M / N A V A L

p011_AMW_Feb18_ad.indd 1 18/12/2017 09:35

 SHOW SCENE
DIARY DATES

SHOW SCENE
At-a-glance model show calendar
E MODEL DISPLAY
) MODEL COMPETITION
J TRADE STANDS
m AIRCRAFT DISPLAY
 MILITARY DISPLAY
 AUTOMOTIVE DISPLAY
 REFRESHMENTS
FREE PARKING
MAKE AND PAINT

Tank Museum
Model Expo
Date: February 10-11
Hosts: The Tank Museum
Address: The Tank Museum,
Bovington, Dorset,
BH20 6JG
Times: Sat 10am-5pm
Sun 10am-5pm
Prices: Adult £13, children £7.50,
under-5s free
Email: info@tankmuseum.org
Web: www.tankmuseum.org

February 18 Shuttleworth Scale Model

Exhibition
25 North Devon Model Society
Annual Show 2018
3-4 16th Exposition Internationale
Hosts: Le Maquette Club Thionvillois
3 North Surrey Military Modelling Hosts: Shuttleworth Collection Hosts: North Devon Model Society Address: Jean Burger Hall, Pasteur Street,
Group Open Day Address: Old Warden Aerodrome, Address: Fremington Parish Hall, 57100 Thionville, France
Hosts: North Surrey Military Modelling Biggleswade, SG18 9EP 12 Higher Rd, Fremington, Times: Sat 2-6pm
Group Times: 9.30am-4pm Barnstaple, EX31 3BG Sun 10am-6pm
Prices: Adult £12, children free Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Adults €3, under-13s free
Address: Banstead Community Hall, Park
(includes Collection access) Prices: TBC E-mail: loloskymaster@aol.com
Road, Banstead, Surrey, SM7 3AJ
E-mail: enquiries@shuttleworth.org E-mail: details@northdevonmodel Web: www.mct57.org
Times: 10am-4pm
society.co.uk
Prices: Adults £3, children and OAPs £2 Web: www.shuttleworth.org
Web: northdevonmodelsociety.co.uk
E-mail: membership@nsmmg.org.uk
Web: www.nsmmg.org.uk 4 East Of England Model Show
2018
24 On Track Military Modelling 25 Universal Model Show
Show Hosts: Peterborough Scale Model Club
Hosts: South Cheshire Military Address: The Voyager Academy,
10-11 15th Model Show Hosts: On Track Shows
Modelling Club Mountsteven Avenue, Walton,
Hosts: L’Association des Maquettistes Address: The Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone,
Address: Malbank 6th Form College, Welsh PE4 6HX
du Montpellierain Kent, CT20 2DZ
Row, Nantwich, CW5 5HD Times: 10am-4pm
Address: Salle Bleue, Avenue de l’Abbé Times: 10am-5pm
Times: 10am-5pm Prices: Adults £3
Brocardi, 34250 Palavas les Prices: Adults £5, accompanied under-15s free
Prices: Adults £3.50, under-16s and
Flots, France under-16s free E-mail: peterboroughscalemodel
concessions £1.50, under-5s free
Times: Sat 9.30am-7pm, Sun 9am-6pm E-mail: on.track@live.co.uk club-show@outlook.com
E-mail: stevejgrosvenor@gmail.com
Prices: Adults €6, concessions €3, Web: www.ontrackshow.co.uk Web: www.peterboroughscalemodels.
Web: www.scmmc.co.uk
under-10s free co.uk
E-mail: amm34000@aol.com
Web: www.amm34.com 24-25 Hamburger Tactica 2018
Hosts: Hamburger Tactica
March 17-18 Fantazmagoria 2018
Address: Bürgerhaus Wilhelmsburg, 3 Aldingbourne Modelex Hosts: Film & TV Model Club
11 Huddersfield Scale Model Show Mengestrasse 20, 21107 Hosts: Aldingbourne Modellers Address: The Locomotion Museum,
Hosts: IPMS Wakefield and District Branch Hamburg, Germany Address: Aldingbourne Community Sports The National Railway Museum,
Address: Huddersfield Leisure Times: Sat 10am-7pm Centre, Olivers Meadow, Dale Road Industrial Estate,
Centre, Spring Grove Street, Sun 9am-4pm Westergate, Chichester, West Shildon, DL4 2RE
Huddersfield, HD1 4BP Prices: Sat €7 Sussex, PO20 3YA Times: Sat 10am-5pm
Times: 10.30am-4.30pm Sun €5 Times: 10am-4pm Sun 10am-4pm
Prices: Adults £4, concessions £2 under-10s free Prices: Adults £2.50, under-16s free Prices: Free
E-mail: huddersfieldshow@gmail.com E-mail: tactica@hamburger-tactica.de E-mail: Aldingbournemodellers@gmail.com E-mail: ah.ftvmc@gmail.com
Web: huddersfieldscalemodelshow.co.uk Web: www.hamburger-tactica.de Web: Aldingbourne Modellers (Facebook) Web: Fantazmagoria 2018 (Facebook)

IMPORTANT: It is worth noting that ALL events are subject to change or cancellation. This information has been collated from a variety of sources and was believed to be correct at
the time of going to press. To advertise your event here, email: chris.clifford@keypublishing.com

12 Airfix Model World

 MIL-SPEC
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Manufacturers of hard plastic multipart figures
in 28mm & 54mm scales. Digitally designed and
manufactured in The UK. Huge range covering
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sales@alclad2.co.uk
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releases planned for 2018. www.alclad2-online.co.uk
Phone: 01692 500700

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Bf 109G -14
1/48

www.eduard.com

p013_AMW_Feb18_ad.indd 1 18/12/2017 09:39

 ADVANCED BUILD
MiG-23P FLOGGER-G

Dave Oliver enlivens Trumpeter’s imposing 1/32 MiG-23 with aftermarket detail

M
ikoyan-Gurevich’s
MiG-23 (known as
izdeliye 23 by the
Soviets and Flogger
For pre-shading efforts,
personal preference was
lightened shades of Lifecolor
UA207 Panzer Grey, with a
very subtle hue applied to
the underside.
by NATO) was designed in the
early 1960s as a replacement for
the MiG-21 Fishbed.
It was to be faster, carry more,
and have longer range, yet
operate from short, unfinished
runways. The initial MiG-23S
Flogger-A entered service in
1970, with the second-generation
MiG-23ML Flogger-G developed
to address shortfalls in the basic
design; the MiG-23P (the subject
of this build) was a supposedly
pure interceptor derivative of
the latter.
Having wanted to build a
Soviet subject for some time,
Trumpeter’s MiG-23 fitted the bill
perfectly. It was well packaged,
with a high degree of detail in
the moulding, but it was felt this
could be improved further, so it
was decided to incorporate Aries’
(www.aires.cz) bespoke MiG-23ML
Flogger-G Detail Set (2196), along
with other aftermarket products.
Improving the office
The Aries cockpit required
minimal neatening, but in the
interests of safety, any sanding
or cutting was performed
either outside or with the parts
wetted, with the ejection seat
the first item to be processed.
Photo-etched (PE)
brass seatbelts were
removed carefully
from their fret
and folded
according to the
instructions.
Much dry-
fitting was

14 Airfix Model World


required, due to the harness’
delicate nature and the need to
achieve an accurately weighted
appearance; however, a pot of
Deluxe Materials’ Tacky Wax
(www.deluxematerials.co.uk)
proved very useful indeed for
holding these fragile and complex
parts temporarily.
Colour references for the
seat and (in many cases) the
build, proved a case of making
an educated guess — no two
photographs depicted the same
hues. Lifecolor UA094 Medium
Sea Grey (www.airbrushes.com)
was applied to the seat frame,
while the cushion received UA092
Dark Earth, before the completed
harness was then painted UA002
Green. This was then weathered
with AMMO-MIG A.MIG-1621
Shadow for Desert Brown (www.
migjimenez.com) and Abteilung
ADVANCED BUILD
MiG-23P FLOGGER-G
yAroSlAvl defender
Trumpeter’s decals provided a wealth of warning stencils, but the two Soviet
schemes were decidedly dull. To remedy this, Linden Hill’s LHD32012 ‘Brothers in
Arms 2’ sheet (www.lindenhillexports.com) was duly acquired; this contained seven
options, with two Moscow Military District (MD) airframes, an Afghan War veteran
and examples from East Germany, Bulgaria and the Czech and Slovak Republic.
After deliberation, MiG-23P ‘Blue 41’ was selected and the model was modified, as
per the comprehensive decal instructions, to reflect the subtle changes present in
this variant. The liveries were:
• MiG-23ML ‘47’, 1st AE, 979th IAP, Kandahar, Afghanistan, June 1986 - July 1987
• MiG-23P ‘Blue 41’, 415th IAP-PVO, Tunoshna/Yaroslavl, Moscow MD, Russia, 1992
• MiG-23P ‘Red 01’, 28th GvIAP-PVO, Andreapol/Tver, Moscow MD, Russia, 1992
• MiG-23ML ‘4644’, 1st Air Fighter Regiment, České Budějovice, Czech and Slovak
Federal Republic, 1991
• MiG-23ML ‘610’, Jagdfliegergeschwader 9 ‘Heinrich Rau’, Peenemuende, East
Germany, 1990
• MiG-23MLA ‘866’, 1st Air Squadron, Dobroslavtzy, Bulgaria, 1989
• MiG-23MLD (Type 23-22a ‘Eksport’), 1st Air Squadron, Dobroslavtzy, Bulgaria, 1999
 The complex seat harness required
much dry-fitting to sit realistically. Where
possible, the buckles were left unglued to
achieve a natural, weighted effect.
 Aries’ MiG-23ML Flogger-G Detail Set
(2196) was comprehensive to say the least,
containing resin and PE components, with
an acetate sheet for the instrument panel.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 15
 ADVANCED BUILD
MiG-23P FLOGGER-G

"LeAd Sheet
SimulAted the
rAther duBious
fit of SeverAl
pAnelS"

 All constituent
cockpit components
were painted and
weathered with the same
products, to ensure a
uniform appearance.

BoXeS on diSplAy
The rear avionics bay was added to provide an interesting feature at the back of the
aircraft; it also served as a dry run for the larger and more visible front compartment.

 The aperture was measured carefully and marked on the fuselage to ensure the 502’s ABT110 Black Oil Wash a contrast for the overlying
correct fit, before holes were drilled on the waste material, just inside the boundary. (www.abteilung502.com). UA094 Medium Sea Grey, which
The instrument panel and appeared the closest tone to that
cockpit tub were addressed in available reference photos. The
next, and here the excellent bays then received an ABT110
cast resin features required no Black Oil wash, followed by MIG
embellishment, as all the intricate Productions' P300 Earth Wash
levers and auxiliary instruments
were supplied. Once primed and
painted in the rather unusual
shade of AKAN 73005 Emerald
Green, the interior was weathered
in the same way as the seat, to
provide a consistent finish.
 Once the panel had been removed, the edges were neatened with files; the avionics
At the start of the build, it
bay was test-fitted repeatedly during this process.
was decided to try and include
as much detail as possible,
but without compromising the
aircraft’s sleek lines. The well-
appointed electronics/avionics
and undercarriage bays were a
pleasure to build, with the latter
being notably impressive. Study
of reference photos revealed
no discernible omissions, which
allowed one to concentrate on
painting and weathering. Once
 All the hard work paid off, as the PE item located snugly in its hole, and even better, primed, a shadow coat of UA207
no filler was required. Panzer Grey was sprayed into
the recesses, and this formed

16 Airfix Model World


(www.migproductions.com).
Finally, Modelmates’ 49203
Oil Brown weathering wash
(sadly, no longer in production)
was airbrushed heavily around
the main pivot point for the
undercarriage leg.
Joining the gaps
With all the small sub-assemblies
completed, work began on joining
the three large fuselage sections.
This started with the nose, after
ballast had been added to make
sure the model didn’t tail-sit…
Deluxe Material’s Liquid Gravity
product was ideal for this.
Notably, the front gear bay and
cockpit tub required significant
work to allow the fuselage
halves to mate correctly. After
gluing the nose section together,
filler was required on the upper
and especially the lower joins,
with Mr. Dissolved Putty (www.
albionhobbies.com) used for
smaller areas. Several larger gaps
were treated with plastic card
fillets, sanded to shape after the
glue had cured.
MiG-23ML Flogger-G
MODEL SPEC
By: Trumpeter
Stock Code: 03210
Scale: 1/32
Price: £110
Available from:
www.pocketbond.co.uk
ADVANCED BUILD
MiG-23P FLOGGER-G
The fuselage air intakes were
detailed with Profimodeller’s
P32022 MiG-23 Intakes
and Wheel Disk set (www.
profimodeller.com), along with a
lead foil panel for the distinctive
exterior strengthening plate
present on the MiG-23P. These
were glued in position, after
which just a small amount of
filler was required to neaten
the area.
 The busy undercarriage bay interiors were a challenge to paint and weather, but the end
result (after much experimentation) was rewarding and worth the extra effort.
Swinging into action
The fuselage mid-section
contained the swing-wing
mechanism and lower airframe.
Here, the ease of assembling the
wings and adding the aftermarket
undercarriage bays was in stark
contrast to the challenges of
the nose to mid-section join;
considerable sanding and filling
occurred before this seam was
 Usually, gear bay doors are a simple addition, but to ensure a consistent finish with the
deemed satisfactory. interior and exterior colours, they required careful painting and weathering.
A raft of smaller aftermarket
items was then attached to
the exterior, including various
antennas and anti-static rods.
Lead sheet simulated the rather
dubious fit of several panels,
while smaller hatches and fuel
caps were added from Archer’s
AR88003 Resin Access Panels
set, from its Surface Details
range (www.archertransfers.
com). Finally, a few subtle
modifications were made to
 Trumpeter went to great lengths to replicate the Flogger’s compact, yet complex
those areas immediately in undercarriage, which required considerable dry-testing to guarantee a secure and strong
front of the windscreen, and on fit (to support the model’s weight).
the trailing edge of the vertical
tail, to represent the airframe
changes that differentiated
the baseline ML from the
dedicated interceptor P-variant.
Fortunately, the distinctive
fin-mounted Vozdukh ground-
controlled intercept antennas
were supplied in the kit (Parts S4
and S11).
 Ballast, in the form of Deluxe Materials’ Liquid
Gravity pellets, was added to the nose cone to
prevent the model from tail-sitting.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 17
 ADVANCED BUILD
MiG-23P FLOGGER-G

DiSplAyed powerplAnt
Trumpeter’s kit was designed to have a removable tail section, and provided a
display trolley for it, along with an adequate representation of the type’s Tushino
R35-300 turbojet. In the interest of preserving the aircraft’s sleek lines, it was
decided to super-detail the engine and keep the tail in place. The extra detail
supplied with the Aries set (2196) sealed the deal, and a free-standing powerplant
was built from a combination of styrene, resin and scratch-built parts (the latter to
add surface details including piping and rivets). A handling trolley for the engine
was fashioned from plastic card and rod.

 The front avionics bay provided a superb focal point once painted, and its snug fit was
vital, considering its prominent position on the airframe.

Personal preference was to use

lightened shades of Lifecolor
UA207 Panzer Grey, with a very
subtle shade being applied to
the underside, so as not to show
through the top coat excessively.

Smooth surfaces
The fuselage was cleaned
thoroughly, and from this point
on the model was handled when
wearing latex gloves, to avoid
getting fingerprints or blemishes
on the final finish. After an initial
application of Alclad ALC-302
Grey Primer and Microfiller, it
was apparent immediately that
several seams required extra
attention. The large tail had a
noticeable gap running along the
join, as did the area between the
nose and fuselage mid-section,
and the modifications to the
windscreen area...another plastic
fillet was added to make this gap
less pronounced.
Once the fit and finish issues
had been addressed satisfactorily,
a second primer coat followed,
and when cured, this was sanded
lightly with 1,600-grade Micro
Mesh to remove any remaining
surface imperfections.
Pre-shading provided a useful
starting point for the final paint
finish, highlighting areas of wear
and emphasising surface details.
Warpac hues
The underside was painted
AKAN 73008 Blue, before the
centre of most panels was post-
shaded with a lightened mix
of the base colour. To provide
a slightly feathered edge to
the upper/lower camouflage
demarcation line, lengths of
rolled White Tack were applied.
Far from attempting to achieve
a uniform straight line, this

18 Airfix Model World


 Significant work was needed on the nose, both internally to ensure the cockpit tub fitted
and externally, to eliminate seams.
was repositioned randomly to
recreate the rather haphazard
appearance of the paint finish
on actual aircraft, which in
places looked as if it was applied
with a roller!
AKAN’s 73097 Sand Brown
served as the initial camouflage
colour, and this was airbrushed
freehand to achieve the correct
appearance. Helpfully, AKAN also
provided the correct faded colour
in its range, so the upper surfaces
were then painted in successively
lighter mixes of the base coat.
The same procedure was followed
for the remaining tones (73055
Green, 73060 Green and 73026
Dark Brown), with care taken to
keep the airbrush at the same
Soviet hueS
The Flogger’s exterior colours came
from the AKAN acrylic paint range
(www.coastalcraftmodels.uk.com):
• 73008 Blue
• 73024 Protective
• 73026 Dark Brown
• 73055 Green
• 73060 Green
• 73096 Beige
• 73097 Sand
• 73098 Brown
• 73099 Green
distance and angle from the model
to achieve a uniform finish, despite
the random nature of the actual
aircraft finish. It was felt that just
small imperfections should be left,
to achieve a scale representation.
With all the colours applied,
certain panels that would be
affected directly by the airflow
were highlighted, as well as the
leading edges of the wings and
tail. Two coats of Sin Industries
P402 Brown Filter (www.
migproductions.com) were
then applied to unify
the varied shades of
the finished four-
tone camouflage
scheme. At this
point, minor
"the underSide
wAS pAinted
AKAn 73oo8 Blue"
 ProfiModeller’s multi-media detail set supplied the numerous PE and turned brass antennas
and aerials, but despite care when handling, these were knocked off with alarming regularity.
chipping effects were applied
around the intakes and cockpit,
this process being repeated
throughout the remainder of the
build to achieve a subtle, layered
effect. Nose and tail radomes were
then airbrushed
with a
lightened
coat
of 73010
Radio
Transparency
Grey; once dry,
AK Interactive's
AK088 Worn
Effects was applied
over these areas,
before neat grey
was added. After 15
ADVANCED BUILD
MiG-23P FLOGGER-G
minutes, the paint was rubbed
away selectively with a stiff brush,
to replicate a worn finish. The
upper surface of the nose radome
also had a highly sun-bleached
appearance, so a lightened coat of
the grey was applied to this area.
Johnson’s Klear/Pledge Future
was then brushed over the model.
Linden Hill’s LHD32012 ‘Brothers
in Arms’ (see panel) supplied
the markings, and the decaling
proceeded without fuss; minor
treatments with Micro Sol were
required to ensure they conformed
to the panel lines. Applying the
kit warning stencils took a few
late nights to complete, with a
seemingly endless list of decals to
apply, but the result was well worth
the effort.
Flogged and worn
AMMO-MIG’s A.MIG-1619 Panel
Line Wash (PLW) Blue Dirt was
applied to the underside and left
for approximately 30 minutes,
before being streaked in the
direction of the airflow. The
www.airfixmodelworld.com 19
 ADVANCED BUILD
MiG-23P FLOGGER-G
 To simulate the rather questionable build quality of Soviet aircraft, various panels and
hatches were detailed with lead foil.
upper surfaces were treated in
much the same way, with both
A.MIG-1612 PLW Green Brown
and A.MIG-1614 PLW Neutral
Brown employed here to add
Crew for A MiG
Finding a suitable Soviet pilot figure (to give the build a sense of scale), proved
difficult – but Aries’ Soviet Fighter Pilot with Ejection Seat for MiG-21/MiG-23
(320051) was acquired and the surgery began.
 Just the head, arms and legs were used,
but the torso was moulded from Andrea
Sculpt putty, as Aires' item was obscured
by the seat and parachute harnesses.
20 Airfix Model World
variation. Once dry, selective
ABT015 Shadow Brown pin
washes were then applied, before
the model was sprayed with
Lifecolor LC77 Satin Varnish.
To begin, the pilot was cut from the resin
ejection seat; the latter was discarded
as the item from the Flogger Detail Set
(2196) was used for this project.
 Legs and arms were repositioned to
achieve a realistic pose. Any large gaps in
the joins were filled with a plastic fillet and
sanded to shape.
 The camouflage was sprayed carefully to obtain a uniform finish, after which each colour
was post-shaded with lighter mixes of the base hue; areas of wear received further highlights.
The finishing touch to the
weathering process proved
to be one of the trickiest.
Reference photos showed a
well-maintained, but heavily
weathered exterior, which had
obviously been subjected to
the worst extremes of Soviet
weather. Trying to simulate
realistic rain and grime streaks
on the aircraft took practice, and
in the end, A.MIG-1203 Streaking
Grime was used sparingly
and built in layers, while the
excellent LifeColor LPW11
Rain Marks created realistic
water streaks. Extra attention
was given to the underside,
with LPW14 Dark Dust being
sprayed…this was then worked
into the panel lines with a brush,
via the supplied thinners.
Moscow MiG
After a final LC27 Matt
Varnish application,
the model was ready for the
final details to be attached.
Only after the air brakes had
been secured (along with the
drag chute and doors) were the
various masks on the avionics
bays and canopy removed.
Thankfully, no major problems
were encountered, vindicating
the time spent carefully
covering those areas during
the build.
A suitable printed base was
found and weathered slightly,
before a last-minute decision
was taken to scratch-build a
crew ladder. This imposing and
rugged-looking aircraft was an
interesting and challenging build
and I hope to tackle another
large-scale Soviet aircraft in
the future. I must thank Ian
Atkinson for his help in
researching reference
material for
this build.
 With all decals and warning stencils applied, the model began to look the part. More gloss varnish was applied, sealing
the decals and work to date, before any weathering was applied.

AftermArket
Linden Hill (www.lindenhillexports.com)
LHD32012 Brothers In Arms 2

Aires (www.aires.cz)
2196 MiG-23ML Flogger-G Detail Set
320051 Soviet Fighter Pilot with
Ejection Seat for MiG-21/MiG-23

Brengun (www.brengun.cz)
 Several of the more prominent decals were distressed with a scalpel blade BRL32003 Soviet Modern Wheel Chocks
to give a worn effect. Care was vital, as it was easy to overdo this; the Bort
Eduard (www.eduard.com)
number was repaired subsequently as the effect was deemed unrealistic.
JX123 MiG-23ML Flogger-G Canopy Mask

Profimodeller (www.profimodeller.com)
32054 MiG23 Open Bay I
32023 MiG23 Exhaust Cover
32022 MiG23 Intakes, Wheel Disks
32109 Pitot Tubes and Static
Electricity MiG23

Quickboost (www.aires.cz)
QB32108 MiG-23 Flogger Air Scoops
QB32105 MiG-23 Flogger Brake Chute

 As the kit’s Soviet insignia appeared too bright, they were

lightened with ABT100 Faded Grey.

"decAlS were diStreSSed

with A ScAlpel BlAde"
 IN FOCUS
MiG-23

The unusually modern weapons load on

this aircraft pinpoints it as the MiG-23-98
demonstrator (a modified MLD), which did
the rounds at defence shows in the late
1990s. AA-12 Adder missiles sit under the
wing gloves, while AA-11 Archers populate
the forward under-fuselage rails.

fLogger
fighterS
22 Airfix Model World

The MiG-23
became an
essential Warsaw
Pact combat asset
during the last
two decades of
the Cold War, but
it wasn’t without
its issues, as Guy
Holroyd explains…
Angolan MiG-23ML ‘C454’
Technically a Cuban aircraft in Angolan markings and flown by Cuban pilots, C454 was operational in both air-to-air and ground-attack roles
during the war with South Africa in 1987-88, including the daring raid on Calueque (on the Cunene River) on June 27, 1988 which lead to the August
ceasefire (and December treaty). The Cuban force left Angola in 1991, taking a number of their lightweight Floggers with them.
M
ikoyan-Gurevich’s
MiG-23 was notorious
initially for its
underpowered
engine, poor avionics and, in the
case of the export MS-variant,
poorly trained pilots.
However, it was upgraded during
the course of its service career into
a stable, pilot-friendly and potent
multi-role fighter and interceptor,
with phenomenal acceleration
when required. More than 4,500
Floggers (NATO code name),
including the MiG-27 ground-attack
variant, were manufactured in
the USSR, with series production
commencing in 1969 and
concluding in 1985.
Development of the MiG-23 began
in the early 1960s, as the design
limitations of the MiG-21 became
more apparent. The specifications
decreed the new fighter
should possess greater speed/
acceleration, manoeuvrability,
low-speed handling, payload,
range and firepower, with much-
improved sensors to alleviate the
need for the tactical straitjacket
of standard Soviet Ground Control
Interception. Furthermore, said
aircraft would require short take-
IN FOCUS
MiG-23
While undoubtedly posed for the
propaganda photographer, this excellent
period view of a Soviet MiG-23M Flogger-B
demonstrates the type’s maximum wing
sweep. (All Key Collection unless stated)
off and landing capabilities, with
robust undercarriage enhanced
for unpaved airstrips. The solution
to this long list of supposedly
mutually exclusive capabilities
seemed to lie in variable wing
geometry. The MiG-23 would
be designed with fully and
continuously variable wing-sweep
angles from 16˚ to 72˚, with the
three most common settings (16˚,
45˚ and 72˚) marked as easily
selectable ‘stops’. The prototype
first flew on June 10, 1967 and,
by 1969, series production of
the MiG-23S (Flogger-A) had
begun in Moscow. It performed
disappointingly, though, and just
50 were built.
MiG-23M
With the development of the ‘M’,
the sleek, angular look of the MiG-
23S gave way to a more bulbous
profile. A new powerful engine
with throttled reheat, upgraded
avionics, revised ‘No.3’ wing with
leading edge ‘dogtooth’, and
Flogger undercarriage
radically improved Sapfir RP-23
(particularly the main units
shown here) was designed to fire-control radar and TP-23
be strong enough to handle infra-red search and track (IRST)
short take-off and landings on with new (but limited) look-down/
makeshift runways and fields. shoot-down capability, all served
www.airfixmodelworld.com 23
 IN FOCUS
MiG-23

23MF (Flogger-B) was, outwardly,

almost identical to the M and
was offered originally to Warsaw
Pact air forces. The only obvious
distinguishing characteristic of
the MF was the addition of flutter
damper cylinders to the central
hinge of the rudder; Soviet Ms
never featured these.
Production of the MF began in
1978 and Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia,
the GDR, Hungary, Poland and
Romania began receiving the sub-
type that year. The MiG-23MF was
also acquired by select nations

 Resplendent in three-tone upper camouflage, Bulgarian Air Force MiG-23MLA ‘219’ totes an AA-7 Apex missile under the wing glove, and
short-range AA-8 Aphids under the fuselage. It’s possible this photo was taken at Dobroslavtsi airfield in the early 2000s.

Soviet Air Force MiG-23MLD ‘White 57’

This aircraft was a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, where it served with the 120th IAP during 1988-89, in top cover and ground-attack roles.
Although based on reference photos taken circa 1989-90 after the unit returned to its home airfield (Domna AB) in the Trans-Baikal Military District,
the shark mouth was applied just before the regimental contingent left Afghanistan. (All colour profiles, Terry Higgins/Aviaeology)

to make the production series MiG- USSR’s peripheral land borders and included Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Libya, considered friendly by Moscow
23M (Flogger-B) a potent asset. served into the 1980s. and Syria. In 1989 Libya lost two (India, Cuba and Angola). Some
Starting in 1973, the M-variant MiG-23MSs in a single engagement Middle Eastern MS customers (Iraq,
served exclusively with the Soviet Export MS/MF with US Navy F-14 Tomcats over Syria and Libya) also acquired the
Air Force (VVS) and later with Air The success of the MiG-23M the southern Mediterranean. MF in the early 1980s.
Defence Forces (PVO). triggered enquiries by several Non- The USA acquired the Flogger-E
Early production batches of Aligned countries, regarding an surreptitiously (most probably Lightweights –
the ‘M’ usually sported the then export version. The MS (Flogger-E) from Egypt), and secret test flights ML, MLD and P
standard Soviet overall grey was a downgraded version of the over the Nevada desert confirmed By 1974 the number of upgrades
colour scheme. They could also be M and was no more capable than the MS was indeed a ‘handful’. to the M had crossed the threshold
distinguished by the canopy’s lack the MiG-21bis. Major operators The more successful export MiG- whereby a new production variant
of a centreline frame bisecting the
mirror housing. Attrition of early
production M-series machines
was comparable with NATO’s
F-104 fleet. However, continuous
refinements were introduced
on the production line and, as
reliability improved, pilots began to
warm to the aircraft.
VVS MiG-23Ms arrived on the
westernmost Cold War front line
in 1973, being delivered initially
to units in East Germany. One
sensitive chapter of the MiG-23M’s
VVS service at that time was its
secondary tactical nuclear role.
Nuclear-capable VVS squadrons
were based in the German
Democratic Republic (GDR),
Hungary, Czechoslovakia, and
Poland. PVO service commenced
in 1976 and the MiG-23M was
deployed to regiments on the

24 Airfix Model World

 IN FOCUS
MiG-23

was necessary. The MiG-23ML

Flogger-G was lightened by
2,755lb (1,250kg) thanks to the
removal of the M’s fourth fuel tank,
because the upgraded R-35-300
engine increased both thrust and
fuel efficiency simultaneously.
Externally, the M’s prominent
extended dorsal fin fillet was
removed, and the folding ventral
fin reduced in size. The new
S-23ML fire control radar was
installed, as was a new IRST and a
strengthened nose undercarriage
leg oleo. Series production
commenced in 1976, and the
MiG-23ML began replacing the
M almost immediately. The ML
exhibited fewer initial technical
hitches than its predecessor,
and improved avionics meant
the ML could carry the R-23T
and R-23R missiles (AA-7 Apex)
simultaneously, with up to four
R-60s (AA-8 Aphid) under the
fuselage. Exports began in 1981
with Czechoslovakia, followed
by the GDR in 1982. Further
customers included North Korea,
Syria, Iraq, South Yemen, Cuba
and Angola.
Air Defence P and MLA
A specialised interceptor variant
of the ML was also manufactured
for the PVO, from 1978 to 1983.
Externally, the only distinguishing
features of the MiG-23P were to
be found on the intakes, where
stiffener plates with PVO-specific
antennas were installed. On the
inside, the MiG-23P was fitted
with a new S-23MLA weapons
system, enhanced S-23P radar
and a new autopilot.
 During 1976-78, Bulgaria’s air force underwent a large-scale modernisation programme, which ensured the introduction of MiG-23BN
Flogger-Hs and -MF Flogger-Bs. In 1982, a further delivery of MiG-23MLA Flogger-Gs (pictured here, distinguished by its smaller dorsal fin)
followed. The introduction of this improved interceptor variant allowed Bulgarian pilots, for the first time, to engage targets head-on at
beyond visual range, with AA-7 Apex missiles. (Glenn Sands collection)
around 500 MLD conversions
were completed from 1982. The
main external differences of the
MLD included new Type 4 wings,
and a dog-tooth indentation was
introduced at the point where
the wing glove met the fuselage.
Vortex generator plates were
scabbed onto the base of the pitot
tube, at the join with the nose
cone, which optimized high angle
of attack combat manoeuvres.
Avionics upgrades and new wings
enabled load factors up to 8.5g. All
MLDs were able to carry not just
the R-24R and -24T missiles, but
 Various iterations of the Sapfir-23 radar equipped MiG-23 fighters; the unit shown here also R-73As.
is the Sapfir-23ML. In the second half of the 1980s,
the Afghan ‘experience’ was the
The MiG-23MLA was effectively Ultimate Flogger – MLD catalyst for further capability
a hybrid of the ML and P and The MiG-23MLD (Flogger-K) was upgrades, including the more
served with the VVS. The the result of ongoing efforts to sophisticated SPO-15L passive
MLA incorporated many of improve the combat capabilities of radar-homing and warning
the upgraded features of the the aircraft. The original plan was system, and the two prominent
interceptor P. Bulgaria and Syria for all MLDs to be upgraded from BVP-50-60 chaff/flare dispensers
are known MLA export customers. existing ‘lightweight’ airframes; fitted to the top of the rear

 The MiG-23-98 demonstrator ‘White

36’ shown on the first page of this feature
appears again here, but with an array of
stores cleared for the type. Front row, from
left: AS-10 Karen, KAB-500Kr, KAB-500L.
Second row, from left: AS-17 Krypton, AS-14
Kedge. Back row, from left: AA-11 Archer,
AA-12 Adder, AA-10 Alamo.

 It wasn’t until the 2000s that the Indian

Air Force ceased to operate MiG-23BNs
and MFs, the latter exemplified here by
airframe SK435.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 25
 IN FOCUS
MiG-23

systems. Indeed, Peenemünde

was selected as the MiG-23 base
only partially due to its strategic
location. Another factor was RSBN
and PRMG were already available
thanks to the departing MiG-21bis
inventory. With the MiG-21, two
versions of the automatic flight
control system were necessary
(Lasur and SAU), but just one

 Poland was a long-time user of the MiG-23; this MF-model ‘Red 458’ hails from the
Polish Air Force’s 28 PLM, and was retired in 1998. (Glenn Sands collection)

Iraqi Air Force MiG-23MS (downgraded w/o IR sensor) ‘4012’

Depicted as operational in the air-defence role with 39 Squadron, Tammuz AB, early 1980s. Sometime after 1988 this aircraft received new
markings while in the hands of 59 Squadron (the MiG-23 operational conversion unit), Al-Bakr AB, where it was discovered in a burnt-out state by
US Forces in 2003.

fuselage. Also new was the highly
secure Parol IFF system. All these
improvements turned the MiG-
23 into the aircraft its original
designers had envisaged back in
the 1960s; a highly agile dogfighter
with phenomenal acceleration.
Two MLD export versions did
actually enter limited production
in 1982-4. The Type 23-19B
(MLDE) was developed for Syria,
with downgraded avionics, and
neither the wing-root dogtooth
indentations, or pitot vortex
generators; 50 were built. The
second export variant was the
Type 23-22A, 16 of which were
produced for Bulgaria. Once again,
this version lacked the external
features of the Soviet MLD, but the
avionics were up to VVS standard.
Eyewitness account
Thomas Koliwer joined the Air
Force of the German Democratic
Republic (NVA LSK/LV) as an
evaluator (Auswerter), transposing
data received from radar
installations for use by Flight
Controllers. In November 1980
he joined Jagdfliegergeschwader
JG-9 ‘Heinrich Rau’ at the historic
Peenemünde Air Base, on the
Pomeranian Baltic Sea coast.
These are his experiences of
experiences as a member of the
GDR’s sole MiG-23 regiment:
“Our welcome included an
introduction to the MiG-23, which
had just re-equipped the 2nd
Squadron. I had always been
interested in aviation, but this was
news to me. Clearly the policy of
keeping such things secret was
working. Shortly after this, the first
publicity photos of the new MiG-
23s appeared in the media.
Conversations with pilots
revealed an ambivalent attitude
toward the MiG-23MF. On the one
hand, attributes such as its slow
landing speed were lauded, as
were the RSBN tactical navigation
and PRMG instrument landing
would fit into the airframe,
whereas both were fitted to the
‘23. For the first time, Lasur was
connected to the autopilot, which
meant the aircraft could actually
be flown remotely.
A particular highlight was the
TP-26 IRST system. With it,
targets (even those headed in
the opposite direction) could be
locked onto without radar. I can
well remember the time two of
our interceptors, while hidden in
cloud, managed to creep up on
a Danish F-16 and switch on their
radars briefly to lock onto him.
The poor chap in the F-16 most
probably needed a fresh pair of

 MiG-23MLD of the Ukrainian Air Force’s 894 IAP (Western Region Air Defence)
at Ozernoye Air Base, June 1993. New Ukrainian insignia would progressively
replace the old red stars during 1993. (Popsuevich Archive via Linden Hill)

26 Airfix Model World

 IN FOCUS
MiG-23

more agile in aerial combat at

Two Libyan Air Force MiG-23s, similar to the MiG-23MS Flogger-E shown here, fell prey to US Navy Tomcats over the Gulf of Sidra on
January 4, 1989. (Glenn Sands collection)
underpants after that encounter…
At this time such dangerous
‘war games’ were quite the
norm. In the summer, especially
during NATO exercises, our quick
reaction alert (‘DHS’ in GDR
parlance) would take off, fully
armed, up to four times daily.
Luckily nobody ever lost his nerve.
The radar itself, though, was one
of the weaknesses of the MF; there
were always a certain number of
aircraft out of commission with
unserviceable radars.
We were responsible for a few
provocations, although less than
the other side. I recall one mission,
prepared and executed in
strictest secrecy. Most probably
undertaken as test of NATO
reaction times, Major General
Baarss took a MiG-23UB out over
the Baltic and flew westwards,
almost reaching the North Sea
before turning around. There
was also a circuit, which included
the Danish island of Bornholm.
This resulted in a few encounters
with Saab Drakens or in later
years, F-16s.
JG-9 squadrons (which were still
equipped with the MiG-21MF)
would transition to the MiG-23ML
in early 1982, the reaction of
pilots was less than enthusiastic.
One Major told me he was sick of
the ‘23 and much preferred the
MiG-21bis. There was pessimistic
speculation about the reliability
of the systems. One joke that
did the rounds was that the ML
had a 100km cable drum aboard,
so that onboard systems could
be checked constantly. In reality
things were much improved.
There is a myth that the elevated
stance of the ML on the ground
(in contrast with those of the MF
and UB) has something to do with
the aircraft’s lighter weight. The
AfgAntSi
(Terry Higgins/Aviaeology Publishing collection)
major reason is a longer main
hydraulic cylinder fitted to the
main landing gear – otherwise the
main undercarriage of all versions
is identical. The change was
necessary because the low-sitting
MF regularly created problems
when taxiing, and especially when
taking off from non-concrete
taxiways and runways.
Finally, some observations on
variable geometry flight: MiG-
23 take-offs and landings were
always made with 16° sweep,
combat manoeuvres with 45°,
and supersonic flight with
72°. Other degrees of sweep
between 16° and 72° were
also possible and applied. For
instance, the aircraft was much
30° sweep. Unfortunately, the
GDR administrative operational
regime was very rigid, with the
result that pilots were unable to
exploit the ‘23 to the best of its
capabilities. At the very least they
should not get caught doing so;
wing sweep data was not included
in the flight recorder…
Pilots were paranoid about
setting the sweep to 16° for
landing. Any greater sweep, and
neither the slats or flaps would
extend, resulting in a dangerously
high approach speed. None of
those who tried this and lived
to tell the tale could explain
how it had happened. The radio
message ‘Krylo 16’ (Russian for
‘surfaces 16’) would be confirmed
numerous times on approach by
both pilot and landing controller.
Furthermore, a red warning light
would illuminate when the landing
gear was extended should the
sweep not be set at 16°.”
Postscript
Today it’s still possible to find
MiG-23s still flying: MLs in Angola,
Cuba, Libya, Algeria and North
Korea; MLDEs in Syria. On the
former territory of the vast USSR,
just one country, Kazakhstan,
continues to fly the Flogger.

Making a statement
One episode would not have
escaped the attention of anyone,
military or civilian, stationed
at Peenemünde. In 1981, Major
Buchaniek broke the sound
barrier accidentally in low-level
flight over the station. Window
panes, roofs, and even pipes at
the local power station were
damaged or destroyed. The bang
was monstrous; I experienced it in
the barracks on my day off. Major ‘Lightweight’ MiG-23s were deployed to Afghanistan between 1984 and 1988, originally to provide in-theatre air cover for Soviet
B had very few friends after this ground forces and deter ‘foreign interference’.
incident, especially among the The MiG-23MLD was the most numerous Flogger variant utilised in Afghanistan. The MLDs were well suited to the harsh local
many officers who tended their conditions, and were manoeuvrable, with very high rate-of-climb capabilities. ‘Afgantsi’ MLDs underwent several ‘hot and high’
beloved allotments, as the glass modifications prior to deployment; the engine start-up system was optimised for the hot climate. In addition to its combat air
panes in many sheds and summer patrol role, the MLDs were also employed widely for strike, reconnaissance and target designation missions.
huts were broken. The MiG-23MLD was a popular mount with pilots. During the fraught final years of the conflict prior to Soviet withdrawal in
At the end of 1981, when it January 1989, MLDs suffered no combat losses…and just three in day-to-day operations.
became apparent the remaining

www.airfixmodelworld.com 27
 PHOTO FOCUS
SWISS F-5

Lashings of  Swiss F-5 J-3033 (J = Jäger, which 

translates to hunter or fighter) manoeuvres
mountain air and aggressively to crest the ridge of the
9,500ft (2,895m) Wildgärst, on the
Swiss Air Force F-5s southern boundary of the range.

were highlights
of Kev Baxter’s
‘Axalp’ photo
safari last year

ALPINE
TIGERS
I
n 1978 the Swiss Air Force
took delivery of the first of its
Northrop F-5E Tiger IIs.
Eventually, 98 airframes
(including two-seat F-5Fs) were
procured with an expected out-
of-service date of 2016. Saab
Gripens had been selected to
replace the ageing F-5s; however,
a 2014 referendum cancelled
this purchase and 21 remaining
F-5s will soldier on until possibly

28 Airfix Model World

 PHOTO FOCUS
SWISS F-5

 Based in Payerne, in the French-

speaking Canton of Vaud, J-3033 flies
with 6 Escadrille. The Squadron’s insignia
is a duck and in 2015 this airframe was
painted to commemorate the unit’s 90th
anniversary. ‘JUSQU’AU BOUT’ translates
roughly as ‘Until the End’.

 J-3074 of Flight Training Unit 31 fires

a burst from its 20mm M39A2 cannon.
‘Pa Capona’ translates from the Valois
dialect as ‘Never give up!’. The badge of
31 TU is carried on the starboard side of
the nose, and markings for Fliegerstaffel

E
13 on the port side.

2020. As with the aircraft’s

namesake, chances to see
Tigers in their natural element
are diminishing. Therefore, the
annual Swiss Air Force ‘Axalp’
live-fire demonstration, held in
the second week of October and
open to the public at the Axalp-
Ebenfluh Gunnery Range, high in
the Bernese Oberland, represents
what’s arguably the best venue
in the world to see this iconic
machine before it finally
becomes extinct.
 Wearing the markings of Fliegerstaffel
8 on its centreline tank, J-3030 is adorned
by the names and signatures of the crews
associated with the final F-5E Reservists’
Refresher Course, at Meiringen Air Base.
(All photos Kev Baxter)

www.airfixmodelworld.com 29
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
FLAKPANZER IV
AMW’s junior modeller
Joe Turner tackles
Dragon’s Panzer
IV-based ‘Ostwind’
Sky Sweeper
T
he FlakPanzer IV or Ostwind
was a German self-propelled
anti-aircraft gun (SPAAG)
- developed in 1944 as
a progression of the previous
iteration, the Wirbelwind.
This vehicle’s chassis was the
same as the Panzer IV’s, but
the turret was replaced by an
armoured hexagonal box sporting
a powerful 3.7cm Flak 43 cannon,
rather than the Wirbelwind’s
quad-barrelled Flak 38. The Flak
43 offered increased range and
velocity, and was effective in anti-
vehicle roles as well as against
aircraft. In late 1944, an order
for 100 vehicles was placed, but
 The lower hull was almost a one-piece item, featuring surprisingly good fit and crisp by the war’s end just 44 had
detail. The suspension units have been added. been produced (seven of which
30 Airfix Model World
were completely new instead of
upgraded Panzer IVs). The vehicle
served mainly on the Eastern
Front, proving highly efficient
against vehicles and aircraft alike.
From the bottom up
As is commonplace for armoured
vehicles, the build started with
the lower hull, which was a one-
piece item bar the back plate. The
rear consisted of an armour slab
that had a plethora of detail, from
exhausts to locks and chains. This
was glued to the hull and work on
the suspension began with the
roadwheel frame. The suspension
bars were highly detailed, and each
held two roadwheels. There were
eight bars in total (four per side)
and these featured minute rivets
and weld seams. Overall there were
26 wheels: 16 roadwheels, two
drive sprockets, two idlers and six
return rollers. The sprockets were
particularly impressive and oozed
realism, with plenty of bolt heads.
At this point it was decided to leave
the wheels off because it would
ease painting and handling. For
this build, though, the kit’s Magic
Track links were sidelined in favour
of Easy Metal Links’ Panzer III/IV
& variants 40cm type A (EML-35-
001). These were chosen for their
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
FLAKPANZER IV

 Dragon’s wheels
were adorned
with fine features;
the same parts
equip many of the
company’s other
Panzer IV kits.

 Photo-etched brass
sets from Griffon
Model provided a
multitude of upgrade
options, including
straps for the tools,
mudflaps, boxes and
entire sections of the
flak gun.

The kit tracks were replaced

by white metal alternatives from
Easy Metal Links’ set EMl-35-001.
These were a doddle to assemble, and
their weight added a sense of realism.

pigments were applied liberally the effect of a used vehicle, spent

into the gaps and along the sides
of the model. A homemade grey oil
wash fixed the pigments and added
colour to the floor.
However, it was felt the grey was
a little strong, so the colour was
restored with white oil paint dry-
brushed over the surface. To give
shell casings were attached to the
floor before the top half of the hull
was attached along with the latter’s
tools and other accoutrements.
As there were spare track links,
these added to the front of the
vehicle. The straps for these tools
were sanded away carefully

ease of use and realism over the kit

pieces. Front armour plating was
added at this point, but the beam
that held the spare tracks was
removed and replaced with finer
photo-etched (PE) brass parts,
such as the bar and chains on the
locking system. As the vehicle was
open topped, a small section of
the interior was provided, which
comprised the floor and the radio
operator’s gun. There were no
other inner features, and the detail
on the supplied parts was rather
sparse, although due to limited
visibility this wasn't problematic.
The interior sections were initially
painted white overall, and then

3.7cm FlakPanzer IV “Ostwind”

MODEL SPEC

By: Dragon
Stock Code: 6550
Scale: 1/35
Price: £59.99
Available from: www.hobbyco.net

www.airfixmodelworld.com 31
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
FLAKPANZER IV

An aftermarket gun barrel,

RB Models’ 35B43, usurped the kit item
and offered far greater detail. The same
firm’s brass shell casings (35P22) were
the ideal accompaniment.

 Dragon’s flak gun entailed several different sub-assemblies which, in this build, were
enhanced greatly with PE details.

 The turret comprised very few parts,  A quick mock-up tested the fit, and and replaced with PE alternatives,
but ingenious moulding ensured excellent showed how cramped the turret would which ensured greater realism.
detail, mostly via fine weld beads. have been for the crew. Along with the straps, the box and
wheel storage were also upgraded
with PE, and minor damage was
added to give the look of a combat-
worn machine. Although the kit
did not come with tow cables, it
was decided to replicate these
via braided wire supplied with a
Griffon Models set. They were
attached to the rings at the front
and scratch-built hooks on the
back, this format being based on
reference photos. The hull featured
very fine detail and pleasing
texture on the weld seams, but it
was decided to emphasise these to
portray an older unit. Mr. Surfacer
1000 was brushed over the seams
in fine blobs and then left to dry
for 20 minutes. A sharp cocktail
stick was then pressed into the
material, giving the impression of
weld beads.

Armament upgrade
The Ostwind’s main weapon was
a 3.7cm Flak 43 cannon, which
was lightened and refined to fit
the Panzer IV hull. Runners for
the gun itself came from another
Dragon kit, the only new item
being the mount. The detail on
this was excellent, in particular the
one-piece slide-moulded barrel
and breech section. Despite

32 Airfix Model World

 2018 Catalogue

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 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
FLAKPANZER IV
 Before assembling the hull, the sparse interior was painted with oils, and spent shell
cases were added to give a sense the vehicle had been in combat.
 The first colour to be applied was the Dunkelgelb of the stripes. Mr. Hobby H79 Sandy-
Yellow, was the chosen medium, shaded and highlighted appropriately and then masked with
10mm Tamiya tape.
this, plastic can never match the
refinement of turned metal and
brass, so an alternative from RB
Model was sourced. To start with,
the old barrel was removed and
a hole was drilled, into which the
metal replacement was added,
 The completed hull sported typical Panzer IV features…but this would change rapidly! along with the perforated brass
muzzle brake. The gun was
The cannon was painted separated into many different
and weathered, relying sub-assemblies including the
on the sand-yellow/ loading system, mount, spent
beige colour employed
casing catcher and sight. Much
on the real thing.
PE improvement was added,
including the loading system, and
thicker parts were replaced with
thinner alternatives. The shell
casing catcher featured a mesh
shield which came as PE, but it
was decided to use Griffon Model's
instead, as it was finer. Once the
sub-assemblies were completed,
34 Airfix Model World
they were glued together as it
would be easier to paint them that
way. The hexagonal turret, which
housed the weapon, was moulded
in halves, front and back. There
was also a floor section on which
the completed cannon would be
mounted. Exquisite weld seams
were visible on the turret’s exterior,
so care was taken not to damage
these during assembly. The turret
was dry-fitted with tape, to see if
the gun could be inserted into the
gap afterwards, which it could. It
was decided to leave these halves
separate, to allow painting of the
interior first. References varied
regarding the turret interior colour,
from white and Dunkelgelb (the
gun colour) to rusted red oxide
primer and, in some cases, the
turret remained unpainted.

Ultimately, Dunkelgelb
was chosen and the model was
undercoated in Halfords’ Grey
Primer. The following basecoat
was AMMO-MIG’s A.MIG-011
Dunkelgelb aus’44 DG I RAL 7028,
sprayed in two even coats over
the whole of the inside and the
gun. To highlight this, A.MIG-012
Dunkelgelb aus ’44 DG III RAL
7028 was used on vertically facing
surfaces. A different approach
was taken for both the inside
and gun when weathering. For
the latter, an overall wash of AK
Interactive AK2073 Sand and
Desert Camo Liner was applied all
over, and removed from the upper
surfaces with a cotton bud. This
was followed by small patches of
Adam Wilder NL 36 Nitroline Old
Grease on the mount, and areas
where grease would accumulate.
The inside would have then been
painted relatively recently, so
weathering was conducted with
oil paints. White was brushed
 Green was sprayed lightly so the shading of the previous coat would be translated
onto this.
onto areas which would receive
more light and worked into the
surface. Likewise, Burnt Umber
oils were placed into the recesses
and removed mostly with a cotton
bud moistened with white spirit,
followed by blending to make it
seem more natural. Old Grease
was also applied to the turret floor,
while other details were painted
with Vallejo acrylics. Once this
stage had been completed, the
turret halves were mated, but in
the process, much of the weld
detail had been lost at the joins. To
remedy this, what detail was left
was sanded away and replaced
with stretched sprue. This was left
to set for a few hours, after which
Tamiya Extra Thin Cement was run
across the surface to soften it, and
the beads were imprinted with a
hobby knife.
Striped menace
Following the interior painting,
it was time to add colour to the
main vehicle. This meant masking
the interior first, with tissue paper
inserted into the gaps and tape
to neaten the edges. Halfords
primer, applied in several thin
layers, was used as a base coat,
but was sanded between each
coat to achieve as smooth a
surface as possible. The model
was also checked for flaws and
it was apparent that several glue
marks were present, so these
were removed with a fresh No.11
blade and the area was then
sanded gently.
Due to the unusual shape of
 The brown was sprayed over the former, in accordance with the instructions, and then
the tape was removed to reveal the (at this stage) vivid stripes.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD
FLAKPANZER IV
this model, it was decided to
practise colour modulation, but
with the emphasis on a realistic
finish rather than ‘artistic’. The
instructions provided five options,
all of unidentified units from the
late-war period and an interesting
scheme was chosen, consisting
of vertical Dunkelgelb stripes
amid green and brown markings.
It was decided to first paint the
Dunkelgelb, which would in turn
be masked, followed by the green
and then finally brown. The first
coat was a pre-shade of Vallejo
Model Air 71.024 Khaki Brown, in
areas that would receive little light
and where shadows would appear.
This was sprayed just onto the
www.airfixmodelworld.com 35
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
FLAKPANZER IV

 Dark brown wash was used all over

the model, to accentuate surface detail
and harmonise the three camouflage shades.
Details on the model’s
exterior were painted
in Vallejo acrylics, and
treated with washes.
top of the hull and turret, as no
camouflage would appear on the
lower hull. The next colour was Mr.
Hobby H79 Sandy-Yellow, which
was sprayed very lightly over all
surfaces. The final highlight came
in the form of H313 Yellow. For the
modulation effect, flat card was
used to spray against, ensuring
a straight line to maximise the
contrast effect. To keep the look
realistic, it was then blended at low
pressure, misting the paint over
the surface. The next stage was
to mask the stripes in preparation
for the green, and both 6mm and
10mm Tamiya tape was utilised.
The stripes were rendered
in accordance with Dragon’s
suggestion as much as possible,
but the instructions showed just
 Spare track links on the front were initially painted in an acrylic metal shade, after
which they were stippled with rusty tones.
the front, back and one side, so the
remainder had to be improvised.
Having completed this task, the
base coast was chosen as Tamiya
XF-58 Olive Green. Several thin
coats were misted, these being
followed by a first light coat of
Alclad II Mil-Spec ALCE012 British
Interior Grey-Green, in the same
manner as the former colour. The
extreme highlight used on the very
edges of the turret and hull was
A.MIG-003 RAL6011 Resedagrün.
As mentioned, the final colour was
the brown, and the instructions
suggested it should be painted
around the lines, so it was decided
to keep to this loosely, and not go
too overboard.
The chosen colour was 71.043
Olive Drab (RLM 81), thinned

36 Airfix Model World


 The model's entire surface was treated to chipping effects, in the form of lighter colours
infilled with black and metal tones, to add depth to the damage.
lightly and painted freehand onto
the model in blotches; this was
applied in two coats as the effect of
shading wasn’t needed for this. The
tape was then removed, and the
camouflage was complete…details
were painted in Vallejo Model
Color acrylics, and the lines were
touched-up in some areas where it
had bled slightly.
Dirt, dust and chips
Weathering began with washes
and filters, to blend the colours;
this kicked off with an overall wash
of Humbrol AV0201 Enamel Black
Wash covering everything. After
ten minutes’ drying, excess was
removed with a thinner-soaked
tissue, but to enhance the effect
further, an oil-dot filter was applied
via green, yellow, brown, white and
red oils. Streaks were kept in the
direction of gravity.
Now, a vehicle serving in this
late war period would almost
certainly have suffered some form
of damage, in the form of surface
chips and, so it was decided to
replicate this. The first step was
to take the highlight shade of the
surface colour, and apply it around
the edges and areas that would’ve
been most likely to endure wear
INTERMEDIATE BUILD
FLAKPANZER IV
 The lower hull received a layer of mud, blended from Vallejo products, with a heavier
application immediately surrounding the running gear.
and tear. This was done both with inside, to create the impression
a sponge and a fine brush, and that the chips had gone all the
conducted in a random manner. way to the metal. The next item
Black acrylic paint was then on the agenda was making the
applied inside the first chips, tracks rusty (both spare and being
leaving some of colour showing used), as well as the exhausts. All
on the edge. In some items to receive this treatment
cases, this was received a homemade oil wash of
enhanced with Burnt Umber. Shortly after drying,
a very small this was followed by dry-brushing
amount of and stippling the surface with
Citadel Mithril a mix of lightly thinned Burnt
Silver on the Umber and Yellow Ochre. Once
this had dried, a stippling
layer of orange mixed
with ochre was applied
to the surfaces
prone to the
most moisture.
To finish the
rust, pure
orange was used
sparingly to intensify
the pale orange areas and
create contrast.
At this stage, the exhausts and
spare tracks were left, and the
running tracks were treated
to rust-coloured pigments,
before being sealed with matt
varnish…after which the pads
were sanded to reveal the metal
underneath. The final weathering
act concerned mud and dust,
whereby a layer of dried mud was
created on the lower hull. This was
made from Vallejo 73.812 Black
www.airfixmodelworld.com 37
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
FLAKPANZER IV

Mud to represent damp mud, and

73.807 European Mud for dried Aftermarket
spatter. This was applied on and
around the suspension, and lower accessories
hull, in areas where mud would Griffon Model (www.griffonmodel.com)
accumulate. Next, the dust layer L35052 1/35 WWII German 3.7cm Flak
was implemented with Lifecolor
43 Flakpanzer Ostwind
UA 911 East European Dust, which
was thinned lightly and sprayed Eduard (www.eduard.com)
 The aftermarket white metal tracks were dry-brushed and stippled with appropriate under very low pressure…10psi 36218 Leaves Oak Autumn
shades, followed by black and brown washes. For extra realism, the tops of the track runs (0.6bar). It was sprayed over the
were sanded to reveal areas where dirt would have worn away naturally. RB Model (www.rbmodel.com)
mud on the lower hull, the front
35P22 3.7cm Flak 37/43 shells
The gun had both loose and and back, mudguards, wheels
35B43 3.7cm Flak 43 L/60 barrel
clip-loaded aftermarket and tracks. This was followed by
brass shells attached, Lifecolor PG 112 Eastern European Easy metal links
as these were far more Dust, brushed in a dry state and (via www.historexagents.com)
realistic than the styrene sealed with airbrushed white spirit. EMl-35-001 Panzer III/IV 40cm type A
items offered in the kit. To complete the model, Eduard
Adam Wilder (www.airbrushes.com)
supplied its 36218 Leaves Oak
Nitroline NL 36 Old Grease
Autumn set, and its contents were
duly employed, as branches and
leaves often adorned SPAAGs so
they couldn’t be seen from the air.
RB Model’s 35P22 Flak 43 ammo
spent shells also decorated the
vehicle, to denote recent combat.

A different Panzer
This model was excellent and
 A light tan colour was sprayed over the lower surfaces to represent fresh dust. The paint hugely enjoyable to build. Its
was left quite thick, and the air pressure low, for a splattered effect. unusual shape, coupled with
the interesting paint scheme,
was a perfect match and the
aftermarket really helped to
boost the detail. Should one
pick a tricky element, it would
have to be the fit of the turret
as it took numerous attempts to
achieve proper placement. This
kit is highly recommended to
any fan of SPAAGs or late-war
German armour.
 Eduard’s 36218 Leaves Oak Autumn were
used to simulate field camouflage, seen
often on this type of vehicle. Dark brown
wash was applied to the surface, which
muted the PE’s overly bright colours.

38 Airfix Model World

 QUALITY
FROME MODEL CENTRE
MODELLING

86
19
ce
sin
PRODUCTS

ed
Service and quality the way it should be

ish
bl
ta
Es
We are the largest independent family run model shop in the country,
situated in the historic town of Frome in the beautiful county of
Somerset. We offer our customers the largest, most diverse range
of modelling products under one roof with very helpful and friendly
service second to none.
Many years of experience in the model trade and we offer free
solid advice on all the ranges we stock (which is in the region of
40,000 lines) not to mention the countless number of goodies that
are available and which we are more than happy to order for you,
if we had the space we would stock them all!
So if you’re new to the modelling hobby, an intermediate or a
veteran modeller we will have something to wet your appetite.

FROME MODEL CENTRE FREE

1-2 Catherine Street, PARKING OPENING HOURS
Frome, Somerset, BA11 1DA Tues-Sat: 10am-5pm
Sun/Mon: Closed
TEL: 01373 465295
Fax: 01373 451468

Email: sales@frome-model-centre.com

www.fromemodelcentre.com

p039_AMW_Feb18_ad.indd 1 18/12/2017 13:02

 ADVANCED BUILD
LATÉCOÈRE 28-3

ost human beings

take air travel for
granted these days.
Except for a slightly
uneasy feeling experienced by
some, we often board nonchalantly
as if taking the bus or train. In
the 1920s, however, things were
significantly different. After
World War One, it was clear
aircraft had a major role
to play in warfare,
but the challenge
(particularly
for industry),
was how to
employ the
flying machine
in civilian terms.
The main means
Toni Canfora needed patience and determination to of transport at the
time were still the boat, train and
complete SBS Model’s mixed-media Latécoère floatplane even the horse and cart, although

 The cockpit was reasonably well detailed for the scale and included PE parts for the  After assembly, the interior was painted light grey and the details were brush-painted
harnesses. with Vallejo acrylics. A leather shade on the seats ensured a period look.

40 Airfix Model World


 The beautifully cast nose section was
removed from its pour stub and sanded
smooth. Even the fine exhaust pipes were
rendered with hollow ends.
the motor car was appearing
in increasing numbers. Flying
was, at that time, dominated by
enthusiasts and the commercial
transport of mail and goods, but
the cost and risk were simply too
high for most ordinary people.
There was a seismic shift, though,
when Charles Lindberg conducted
the first transatlantic flight in
Latécoère 28-3
MODEL SPEC
By: SBS Model
Stock Code: SBS 7001
Scale: 1/72
Price: €70
Available from:
www.sbsmodel.com
ADVANCED BUILD
LATÉCOÈRE 28-3
1927. His journey proved that in
the near future, long-distance
ventures could be made without
stops every odd hour.
French firm Latécoère was
founded in 1917 and, amazingly,
is still active today. During the
1920s it earned a reputation
mainly as a seaplane constructor.
The French used long-distance
flights to connect to their foreign
territories, and it was also seen
as a means of marketing French
culture and influence abroad.
The Type 28 made its first flight
in 1927, and secured a place in  Transparent parts were cast in clear resin and looked almost as bright as injection-
the history books by performing moulded items.
the first mail delivery crossing
of the South Atlantic in 1930; a
journey that took 21 hours, from
Dakar, Senegal to Natal, Brazil.
The particular aircraft, named
‘Comte-de-La Vaulx’ (presumably
in commemoration of the famed
French balloonist and author), was
lost during the return flight, but
No masks were included,
interestingly, all personnel and mail
so they had to be made from
survived the incident. pieces of tape. A punch created
Latécoère aircraft were used small circler shapes, to use in the
extensively in South America rounded corners of the windows.
for postal delivery, and earned
a good reputation. A letter  Luckily, the fit between the nose and fuselage was perfect. The clear part seam required
could be delivered from Paris filler though, and CA glue to lock it in the correct position.
to Santiago in just four days,
which was astonishing at the
time...and still is. The aircraft
also transported passengers (at
a price!) and a limited number of
Latécoère 28s were also used for
military purposes.
Magyar debut
Hungarian manufacturer SBS
Model has slowly but steadily
increased its range of full resin
“FRENCH FIRM
LATÉCOÈRE WAS
FOUNDED IN 1917
AND, AMAZINGLY, IS
STILL ACTIVE TODAY”
www.airfixmodelworld.com 41
 ADVANCED BUILD
LATÉCOÈRE 28-3
 Just a small amount of filler and sanding ensured smooth wing leading edges. Contrary
to the instructions, the mainplanes were not glued together at this point, but instead,
the model was placed inverted and the support struts were used as a guide to achieve the
correct dihedral...
 The upper fuselage decking was then attached, and the seam along the clear part
filled and sanded.
kits and accessories. It offers
aircraft kits in 1/72 and 1/48,
as well as armour conversions
and detail sets in 1/35 and 1/48.
Comparing its inaugural kit, the
subject of this article, with its
more recent releases shows the
quality is improving constantly.
42 Airfix Model World
With that in mind, a resin kit is
always challenging, and they often
demand more patience and effort
than their styrene cousins.
First impressions here were very
good; flawless casting, a generous
cockpit interior and surprisingly
few parts for a relatively large 1/72
...the result was a small join in the upper ridge of the
fuselage, but this was filled and sanded easily.
aircraft. The clear components
were made from transparent resin
rather than the more traditional
vacuum-formed plastic, and they
looked shiny indeed. The big wing
section was divided in two, but the
entire fuselage, apart from the
nose and upper fuselage ‘lid’ was
cast in one piece. The fuselage was
warped very slightly, but this would
be barely visible on the finished
model. A small PE fret was also
included. As my reference was
limited to just a few photos I will
not go into the possible inaccuracy
of the kit, although a few errors
have been highlighted on Internet
build forums. In general, though,
this was a good interpretation of
the original.
Tools out!
Construction started with
fuselage preparation. It came with
a thick casting block under its
belly, which required a combination
of sawing and sanding to remove.
The window openings were
covered with thin layers of resin,
but these were removed easily with
a scalpel, while general sanding of
the fuselages sides dealt with most
of the warping. The side door came
as a separate part, which was a
pleasing touch should one want to
scratch-build a cabin interior.
Next was the cockpit, which
consisted of a floor plate,
seats, a forward bulkhead and
photo-etched metal seatbelts
and instrument panel. It was
straightforward construction-wise,
but no colour references were
provided for the interior, which
meant there was no other choice
but to go for what I thought was
plausible. The seats were painted
a leather shade, with the seatbelts
in canvas. I then plumped for light
grey for the general interior hue,
“THE COCKPIT
WAS DRY-FITTED
TWICE, AND
NEEDED JUST
MINOR FETTLING
TO SETTLE INTO
THE CABIN”

and the instrument panel was
TONAL TWEAKS painted black. The cockpit was dry-
fitted twice, and needed just minor
An effective way to enliven a large white wing area is to use highlight and shadow
fettling to settle into the cabin.
effects, applied by airbrush. After a coat of primer, the bright white is applied. In
However, the side windows had to
this case, the ribbing is then masked with very thin strips of tape. On top of the
be installed before the ‘office’ could
the white, a lightly toned nuance via a hint of black is airbrushed very thinly...
be attached.
almost misted. The result is a pleasing shadow effect when the tape is removed.
A certain amount of anxiety
arose in the next step – when it
was time to glue the transparent
part that covered the entire
cockpit hub…a crucial part of the
build. The kit didn’t include any
paint masks, which is perhaps
something worth considering
for aftermarket manufacturers.
Instead, masks were cut from tape,
a task made difficult by the fact
that the resin surface was slippery,
despite a thorough wash with soap
and water. In the end, the result
would be slight leakage during the
painting, but I was not aware of it
at the time.
The fit of the clear resin part
wasn’t entirely accurate due to
a hint of warping, so it needed
ADVANCED BUILD
LATÉCOÈRE 28-3
to be forced in place with
cyanoacrylate (CA) glue, but it
turned out fine eventually and
the fit against the nose would,
ultimately, prove to be perfect.
The latter was a very delicate
part with amazing detail, such as
hollow exhaust pipes and grilles.
With the nose installed and
clear parts in place, it was time to
consider the wings. These needed
a slight touch-up with filler at the
leading edges, but this was an
easy task. When dry-fitting, I was
worried about achieving a correct,
and therefore equal dihedral. The
instructions suggested gluing the
wing parts together as one, but I
decided it was better to tackle a
possible join at the model’s spine,
rather than a gap at the lower wing
root. Therefore, two-part epoxy
glue was chosen, to ensure there
was enough time to wiggle the
wings into the correct position. The
mainplane support struts were also
dry-fitted during this process,
The nose was painted satin black in
preparation for the following aluminium.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 43
 ADVANCED BUILD
LATÉCOÈRE 28-3

“THE DECALS
WERE EXTREMELY
THIN, WHICH
WAS GOOD,
BUT THEY
WERE ALSO
VERY FRAGILE”

to further minimise the risk of
incorrect dihedral. Once the
wings were installed, the seam
was filled with putty and sanded,
and the fuselage upper decking
was installed, thereby securing
the wings further.
Vallejo’s Metal Color is
perfect for modellers
who prefer acrylic
paints over lacquer
or enamel, and they
perform equally well.
The model was then set aside, as
construction continued with the
impressive pontoons. These were
delicately cast items, with a fine
ribbing pattern, and a few PE parts
would enliven them. Minor sanding
was all they required, before
they could be joined with the two
parallel bars that ran between
them. These would, perhaps, have
benefited from a metal wire core
to reinforce them; the pontoons
themselves were quite heavy, and
their fragility made construction
somewhat haphazard.
The struts for the actual
attachment to the fuselage belly
was also prepared at this stage.
These had small stubs meant to
fit into the holes in the pontoons,
and luckily the alignment was
good, though the construction felt
somewhat unstable. At this stage
the model was ready for paint, but
the rudder and various surface
details were left off until later to
avoid damage.
Quest for colour
A coat of Mr. Surfacer 1200
revealed small imperfections, so
a few touch-ups were required
before the model was ready
for its livery. Careful study and
planning was required to avoid
any unnecessary masking and
repainting, and it was decided the
white would go on first. This may
not have been the most practical
option, but since white has a very
low opacity and requires many
layers to cover darker colours,
it was the best choice after all.
Like many modellers, I admit
to struggling with white paint,
and I get the impression there is
something in the pigment that
makes it challenging to apply
well. Patience is vital, and the
layers must be applied thinly and
gradually in a quest for a solid coat.
With the white applied, the model
was left to dry for two days before
the masking and application of the
red shade. This consisted of a mix

In the end, however, the model looked

impressive with its huge letters on the
upper and lower wing surfaces, as well
as the decorative yellow trim.

Bracing cables for the tail section were

cut from very thin brass wire, which was
painted matt black and glued in place with CA.

44 Airfix Model World

 ADVANCED BUILD
LATÉCOÈRE 28-3

The pontoons were beautifully

cast items, with interesting
weld lines and PE additions.

 Red paint was sprayed on the pontoons, and then they received a wash of diluted dark brown
oils.Simulated paint chipping followed, and this was executed with a piece of fine sponge.

 Wing supports were painted separately and attached to the model one by one. The fit was not  Despite their weight, the pontoons were attached without any major mishaps. Light pressure
perfect, but this was not visible after a small adjustment of the locating holes. was applied during the process, to ensure a tight fit and secure bond with the fuselage.

of Tamiya XF-7 Flat Red, a hint of
black and approximately 25% X-22
Clear for a better shine. All paints
were diluted with Mr. Hobby’s
Leveling Thinner, which retards the
drying process and helps create a
smooth surface. The red adhered
well, and just minor paint creep
was discovered when removing the
masking tape. The final step was
to again mask the model and paint
the engine, which was achieved by
applying a coat of X-18 Semi-Gloss
Black and, when that had dried,
Vallejo’s acrylic Metal Color 77.717
Dull Aluminium followed. Pontoons,
ailerons and the rudder were
painted separately.
Decal challenge
I was rather happy with the paint
and eager to continue with the
colourful markings. This process
started with the large code letters
for the upper and lower wings,
but it was obvious this would be
a delicate task. The decals were
extremely thin, which was good,
but they were also very fragile
and tended to curl easily. The
larger decals were easy to work
with, but difficulties hampered
application of the smaller
items. The long yellow stripes
kept falling apart and required
judicious patching, and even
touch-ups with paint. Since

 The generator on
top of the fuselage came
as a delicate resin piece, and its
propeller was included on the PE fret.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 45
 ADVANCED BUILD
LATÉCOÈRE 28-3
 Other small and fragile details, such as antennas, were attached and painted once in place.
the quality (apart from this) was
good, my guess is the decals had
possibly absorbed some moisture,
then dried again, as they were
not delivered in a sealed bag.
Decaling took longer than
anticipated, but the result was
rewarding; the model was then
sealed with satin varnish.
These machines seem to have
been well kept, and I didn’t want
to ruin the colourful livery with
heavy weathering. A light wash
46 Airfix Model World
was applied to the recessed panel
lines and around the engine detail,
but more heavily on the pontoons,
while chipping effects were limited
to the floats and access ladder,
which were painted separately.
Final details
At this stage the pontoons were
attached to the model. Again,
the construction felt slightly
unstable but by placing the
model on its back, wings down,
The open fuselage door brought
extra life to the model, as did
the PE ladder also included.
light pressure could be put on
the pontoons during drying. This
ensured the CA found its way
properly to the connecting points
and locating holes.
Bracing cables for the tail
section were made from fine
brass wire and painted matt black,
and the rudder was also attached
at this point. The propeller
blades were painted sand yellow,
followed by Burnt Sienna oil paint
applied with a flat brush, to create
a very subtle grain pattern.
On top of the fuselage there
were antenna masts and a pitot,
and these were rendered in resin
and PE, but they were installed
late in the build process due to
being so delicate.
Time for the moment of
truth…removing the masks!
Unfortunately, this was a
disappointing experience, as
the layers of primer and paint
had gathered around the masks,
and far more annoyingly, there
had also been leakage. This can
usually be remedied by rubbing
 A quick and effective way to imitate
wood is to first paint the blades a tan-
yellow shade, and over this...
off the paint with a toothpick
soaked in thinner, but in this case
the clear resin reacted to the
thinner. I found no other solution
than to paint a very thick black
outline around the windows; the
result wasn’t perfect, but at least
it saved the overall impression.
Hindsight is a wonderful thing…
A test of one’s metal
Resin kits are always challenging,
no matter how great they are.
This was a good product and
with even more careful handling,
the build process could have
been smoother. Many of the
problems were self-inflicted
though, and that must be taken
into consideration while passing
judgement. My only criticism
would be the lack of paint masks,
and possibly the fragile nature
of the decals. Other than that,
this is a worthy rendering of an
interesting and attractive type,
and I look forward to tackling
other SBS Model subjects in
my stash.
“DECALING TOOK
LONGER THAN
ANTICIPATED, BUT
THE RESULT WAS
REWARDING”
 …apply Burnt Sienna oil paint with a flat
brush. In larger scales, a darker shade can
also be applied to emphasise the wood grain.
 Plastic Model Kits, Model Railways, War Games & Board Games

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 FREE PRIZE DRAW
TAMIYA 1/24 CAR KITS

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World readers have the
chance to win superb
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For your chance to win superb prizes simply send your name, address and telephone number to:
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Didn’t win or want to know more about The Hobby Company’s brands? Visit: www.hobbyco.net
Closing date for entries is Friday February 23, 2018 at 12:00 GMT and winners will be notified no later than Friday March 2, 2018. There is no cash prize alternative and
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customers. If you do not wish to receive this information, please state NO INFORMATION clearly on your entry. No purchase necessary.

48 Airfix Model World

 B-25 HISTORY | PHOTO REFERENCE | PROFILES | CUTAWAY ARTWORK

The second volume in

Key Publishing’s Combat
Machines series explores
the legendary B-25
Mitchell light bomber,
which also excelled in
various other roles.
Following the high-quality
design and format of last year’s
Combat Machines 1: B-17G,
Volume 2 offers period photos
with informative captions, and
extensive history text to tell the
Mitchell’s story.

The type’s development is

studied, ahead of chapters
covering many facets of the
B-25’s wartime genesis…from the
famous Doolittle raid on Japan,
and the USAAF unit’s efforts that
inspired Joseph Heller’s novel
Catch 22, to strafing in the Pacific
and US Marine Corps operations,
export users and a very personal
focus on the Pacific Theatre B-25
‘Dirty Dora’.

This is an all-encompassing view

of the Mitchell, across 84 pages,
which also provides many colour
profiles and extensive model
kit, decal, accessory and book
listings. It’s the ideal reference to
accompany Airfix’s new-tool 1/72
B-25 kit later this year.
84 PAGES, SOFTBACK

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 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
TOMAHAWK Mk.IIb

NATIVE AMERICAN it again, but this time with

various aftermarket items,
to enhance what is already a
thoroughly decent kit of this
instantly recognisable aircraft.
Another part of the brief was
to try one of the latest acrylic
paint systems on the market, by
Mission Models, and markings
from Xtradecal to represent 112
Garry Tobiss enhances the latest Squadron RAF. This unit’s crews
painted distinctive shark mouths
incarnation of Airfix’s 1/48 P-40B on their Tomahawks, apparently
copying German aircraft. The
Careful preparation
All parts for the cockpit were
separated, cleaned and then
some were modified (via filing
and scraping) as required for
the PE. Everything was then
washed in warm water and a spot
of washing up liquid, to remove
any remaining debris as well
as any oils left on the surface
of the styrene. Eduard’s set
consisted of pre-painted metal
and plain brass, so any of the
latter was added to the kit parts

T
he original test-shot build
of the P-40B Warhawk
featured in AMW’s
September 2016 issue,
built by yours truly.
Airfix has now released the
tooling in British markings,
though, to portray the Tomahawk
Mk.II. The Editor provided the
welcome opportunity to tackle
famous American Volunteer
Group ‘Flying Tigers’ in turn
copied the Tomahawk livery after
seeing photos of 112 Squadron in
a magazine article!
in preparation for painting.
Airfix provided two styles of
seat and the straight (rather
than curved) back was specified
for the Tomahawk. The Eduard

 Here are the basic components for the cockpit prepared ready for the PE additions. Note  Eduard’s PE seat (right) and the equivalent Airfix part. These were shaped wrongly for
the prominent ejector pin marks; happily, these were covered by some of the pre-painted PE. the Tomahawk, so the PE was modified later.

50 Airfix Model World

 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
TOMAHAWK Mk.IIb

 An Allied cockpit paint set from Mr. Color proved useful here.
 All of the pre-painted parts are seen added to the styrene cockpit components. The
colour, apart from the base Zinc Chromate, came courtesy of the Eduard extras.

BIRD OF PREY PLUMAGE

Xtradecal's (www.hannants.co.uk)
aftermarket sheet X48163 was used
for this build, and it offered six set supplied the curved version, used for the build. This has
different options: but this was easily remedied by three colours; 364 (BS283)
• Tomahawk Mk.IIB, AK578/GA-V, 112 simply bending over the top. RAF Grey Green, 351 (FS34151)
Squadron RAF, Egypt, 1942 Large brass parts such as the Zinc Chromate Type 1 and 352
• P-40C, 9754P, 54th Pursuit seat were then primed with (FS33481) Chromate Yellow
Squadron, USAAC, 1942 Mr. Surfacer 1500 Gray from a Primer, and Zinc Chromate was
• Tomahawk Mk.IIA, AH940/XV-U, 2 rattle can. duly diluted with Mr. Leveling
Squadron RAF, Sawbridge, Essex, Tomahawks were built in the Thinner. All of the pre-painted
UK, late 1941 US, so the interior colour on PE was then added.
• Tomahawk Mk.IIA, AH822/PB-F, the model had to reflect the Be warned, though, as pre-
1683 Bomber Defence Training, fact. Therefore, a useful Mr. coloured PE needs to be
Bruntingthorpe, May 1944 Color package (CS681) Aircraft handled carefully, because
• P-40B, 6, Turkish Air Force, 1942 Interior Color Set for WWII US the paint can be damaged
• Tomahawk Mk.IIb, Royal Egyptian Army & Navy plus RAF subjects, easily. Several small
Air Force, 1942 supplied by Albion Alloys junction boxes were then
(www.albionhobbies.com), was formed, and the bend

www.airfixmodelworld.com 51
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
TOMAHAWK Mk.IIb
METAL MAGIC
Eduard photo-etched (PE) brass upgrades are now available for the Airfix kit,
as shown here:
 A view of the left side of the cockpit, also showing the modified seat and straps, the
latter being fashioned from RB Productions' products and spare buckles.  Eduard set 49786 was used to upgrade
the basic kit, and these were the two
...and the right side, further demonstrating how photo-etched (PE) metal frets included.
the Eduard parts integrate with the kit.
lines left shiny metal, usefully
making them look like scuffed
edges. An Eduard set is also
available for seat straps (49787)
but were not available for this
build. After going to town on
the interior, it seemed a shame
not to fit any seat straps,
so these were fashioned
from RB Productions (www.
rabustore.com) seatbelt
sets, and enhanced with
buckles from the spares
box. Everything looked
the part, but extra
scuffs were
added with a
silver pencil.
“PE ENHANCEMENTS
ADDED DETAIL TO
THE UNDERCARRIAGE
BAY FORWARD OF
THE WHEEL WELLS”
52 Airfix Model World
 Eduard flaps were also available, but
the build was against a tight deadline so
one unit was built, but not fitted.
Desert hues
All of the canopy clear parts were
in dipped in Johnson's Future
floor polish to provide protection
against scratches, and gain extra
shine. They were then added
to the airframe and the Eduard
masks were applied - always a
worthwhile investment because
they save time otherwise spent
creating masks by hand. As with
the cockpit, the whole airframe
was washed with warm water and
detergent to ensure an oil-free
base. The undercarriage bays
had already been painted before
assembly of the wings; wheels
squashed in with masking tape
Curtis Tomahawk Mk. II
MODEL SPEC
By: Airfix
Stock Code:
Scale:
A05133
1/48
Price: £20.99
Available from: www.airfix.com

 A view showing the installed instrument panel. Note the prominent gun breach on the
top left.
 Added PE detail to the engine intakes,
although these were virtually invisible after
the fuselage was assembled.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD
TOMAHAWK Mk.IIb
 The camera parts were in the original kit but not used. There was no evidence they were
used on the aircraft being portrayed, so again they were left off. Eduard's PE enhancements
are shown on the right.
made perfect masks for the wells.
Mission Paints (www.
missionmodelsus.com) were
used for the main camouflage
colours on this build. It was
the first time I’d tried these, so
background reading was required
for familiarisation with the new  Final assembly of the fuselage, also showing the tailplane parts and engine cowlings.
Note the small clear components highlighted by the masking tape.
system. MMS-003 Grey Primer
was applied first. Mission primer  PE enhancements added detail to the undercarriage bay forward of the wheel wells
needs to be ‘activated’ by adding (shown in the right-hand bay).
a few drops of MMA-003 Thinner/
Reducer, and this was done in
the airbrush cup (an old kit was
used for experimentation, rather
than risk the actual model with
something new). The primer
went on very easily, although at
first there was some evidence
of ‘orange peel’…a bumpy
appearance to the surface. Panic
not though, because within
minutes everything dried to
www.airfixmodelworld.com 53
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
TOMAHAWK Mk.IIb

an incredibly smooth finish… random squiggles and dots

something I’ve only previously at varying distances from the
seen with my usual primer of surface. The Middle Stone was
choice, Mr. Finishing Surfacer next. This had thinner applied
1500 from a rattle can. The sparingly – just a few drops –
advantage of an airbrush over an followed by the polyurethane,
aerosol is much greater control, also via a few drops. The latter
plus economy of paint usage. was apparently to improve flow
Greatly encouraged by the and create an eggshell finish. All
results of the test, primer was mixing was done directly in the
then applied to the Tomahawk airbrush cup.
with the same excellent results. Reference photos of 112
Mission Models has released Squadron aircraft showed a
MMP-076 RAF Middle Stone feathered edge rather than a
and MMP-078 RAF Dark Earth, hard line between the aircraft
the exact camouflage shades colours, so the trusty White Tack
needed for Western Desert method for creating boundaries
Tomahawks, but Azure Blue was employed and the Dark
needed for the undersides Earth applied. Two unusual
had not been released at the additions to the paintwork were
time of this build. The Airbrush adding the yellow leading edges
Company (www.airbrushes.com)

on each wing and the dark green

background for the aircraft code
number. The latter was due to the
came to the rescue by supplying original Dark Earth/Dark Green
Lifecolor UA-098 Azure Blue. scheme being masked when
Just to try something different, desert colours were applied.
no pre-shading was done, so the
blue went on next in very thin Dust storm
coats. Mottling to simulate wear A rub-down with Micro-Mesh
and tear was then applied by 4,000 cloth meant a smooth
gradually lightening the original finish, and a coat of Future
colour with white, and spraying prepared the model for the

 The model was finally ready for paint, after Eduard bespoke tape masks were applied  Mission Models’ new paint system includes the primer (activated by the thinner), along
to the transparencies. with polyurethane to improve flow, sheen and adhesion.

54 Airfix Model World


 The initial Azure Blue layer was then mottled with successively lighter shades. Note the
‘in flight’ version of the kit wheels, which made perfect paint masks.
decals. First on was the shark
mouth. These two decals didn’t
cover the entire area because
they failed to join under the
intake, but this was remedied
easily by in-filling with gloss
black, white and mixed red
paints. Hopefully, Airfix kit decals
will not suffer from this problem.
All of the other markings were
fine – helped by Micro Set and
Sol decal setting solutions.
Rather alarmingly, a couple of
decals were found peeling the
next day, but were persuaded
back down with more setting
solution. When everything had
dried for 24 hours, matt varnish
was brush-painted to remove the
high gloss from the decals. Next
came the weathering.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD
TOMAHAWK Mk.IIb
 Middle Stone was applied, followed by White Tack ‘worms’ and plenty of tape to create a
slight feathered edge to the camouflage.
There are two films of 112
Squadron Tomahawks available
online, and these were
invaluable for showing how
the aircraft weathered in the
harsh desert environment. The
footage contrasted with some
colour photos of the aircraft
– presumably freshly painted
to look their best. Weathering
started by adding silver chips
on various surfaces, either with
a fine brush or a small piece of
sponge dabbed in silver paint.
One of the films showed the
aircraft taking off in clouds of
dust, so ‘dusty’ was the order of
the day in terms of a final goal.
Dark Earth was applied to
A slurry of MIG Productions’ complete the basic scheme,
P037 Gulf War Sand pigment ready for the protective varnish.
mixed with water was applied
www.airfixmodelworld.com 55
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
TOMAHAWK Mk.IIb

 One of the Eduard wing flaps (not fitted due to time constraints), formed mostly from a
single piece of PE!
 Decaling completed. Note the ‘non-standard’ yellow leading edges, and just-visible serial
number against the original Dark Green under the tail.
 Three Eduard Brassin resin wheels (lighter colour) with additional PE parts.

A pigment slurry was

applied to the panel
lines as part of the
North African theatre
weathering process.

along all of the panel lines, and
with different concentrations of
pigment to water, the intensity
varied. Once dry, excess pigment
was brushed away gingerly. This
served two purposes; first, the
panel lines were caked and thus
accentuated and second, the
general dustiness
stuck partly to
the airframe.
Black pigments
were then added
around the exhausts and gun
ports, to provide a worn look
that didn’t appear overdone.
Finishing involved attaching
the undercarriage, including
splendid resin wheels from
Eduard, with painting assisted
greatly by the supplied masks.
Resin exhausts by SBS Model
were finished with Alclad II ALC-
112 Steel, followed by a light
dusting with ALC-104 Pale Burnt
Metal, and finally rusty pigment
around the roots of the stubs.
Then came a decision about the
radio mast on the rear fuselage.
It wasn’t in the instructions,
but photos showed various
112 Squadron aircraft had one.
However, a single image of the
actual aircraft was found with
no mast, so the piece was left
off. The four guns were added
to the wings and one striking-
looking Tomahawk sat complete
on the bench.
Top Tomahawk
This is a great kit. Yes, there are
annoying ejector pin marks in
places, but the PE additions dealt
with most of these, leaving just
the wheel wells to sort out. Minor
work was needed on the spinner
to cover the odd gap, but nothing
serious. Apart from that, the kit
built very quickly. All internal
and external PE from Eduard
gave a serious boost to the level
of detail, and the resin wheels

56 Airfix Model World

looked excellent. Sadly, the tight
build deadline meant there was
no time to add the flaps, but one
was built for posterity and it really
was a marvel of engineering. The
Mission Paints performed very
well, and next time around the
finish should be even better as a
result of experience gained
on this project.  The spinner needed remedial work to deal with gaps.

MATERIALS
AT A GLANCE
Alclad II
www.alclad2.com
ALC-104 Pale Burnt Metal
ALC-112 Steel
Eduard
www.eduard.com
49786 P-40B (Interior and exterior)
648270 P-40B Wheels
48894 P-40B Landing Flaps  A comparison of the kit (top) and SBS Model resin replacement exhausts.
EX530 P-40B Mask
Lifecolor
www.airbrushes.com
UA-098 Azure Blue
Mission Models
www.missionmodelsus.com
MMA-001 Polyurethane Mix Additive
MMS-003 Grey Primer
MMA-003 Thinner/Reducer
MMP-076 RAF Middle Stone
MMP-078 RAF Dark Earth
SBS Model
www.sbsmodel.com
48054 Curtiss P-40B exhaust set 1/48  Photo-etched brass was also used to replace the Airfix styrene
undercarriage doors.
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
RC-135W RIVET JOINT

Massimo
Santarossa
portrays the
RAF’s latest
spy plane
by matching
S&M Models’
Airseeker
conversion with
the Minicraft
KC-135 kit

Snooper
Red Goose Art imitates life
As in the real world, the building
of a scale version of the Rivet
Joint echoed the creation of
the real aircraft. Beginning with
a base KC-135, a conversion set
was employed to achieve the

Some of the kit part
connections required the use
of a razor saw. Cutters might have
damaged the fuselage or left a large burr,
which would need extra work to remove.
The fuselage reinforcing ribs were too
large in this scale, so their height
was reduced with a sanding stick,
while the narrower spaces
were attended to with
a needle file.
I
n 2011 the Nimrod R.1 made final results. Minicraft Models
its last operational flight… provided the starting point
thus leaving the RAF without with its KC-135E kit, although
a signals intelligence its KC-135R would also have
(SIGINT) aircraft.
The Ministry of Defence had
been considering upgrading
the ageing Nimrod R.1 to keep it
flying beyond 2010, but budget
cuts demanded a replacement.
The decision was made to
purchase three RC-135Ws from
the US, but these would not
be available until 2014, leaving
a three-year gap in the RAF’s
airborne intelligence-gathering
capabilities.
In 2014, Waddington-based 51
Squadron resumed operational
status with the first of three
RC-135W aircraft, acquired
under Project Airseeker. Similar
to the USAF’s Rivet Joint, worked. Inside the box was
these were former KC-135R a collection of well-moulded
airframes (all of which first plastic parts devoid of flash, well-
flew in 1964) converted by L3 engraved panel lines and finely
Communications of Texas, USA. detailed sub-assemblies.

58 Airfix Model World


The resin conversion came from
S&M Models, which provided
four CFM engines, a new nose,
cheek sensor bulges, and a host
of antennas. The resin itself
was well cast, with no
hint of flash and just a
couple of pin holes. Also
included was a decal sheet
representing two 51 Squadron
aircraft, and instructions with
profile drawings. The markings
were well printed, but the
instructions came solely in text
form; therefore, care and cross
referencing would be needed
during construction. In all,
a very pleasing and exciting
collection of parts.
Plastic surgery
The build started along lines most
airline modellers would recognise…
assembly of the fuselage, which
locked the nose gear compartment
into place with substantial lugs.
Although the engraved detail
was acceptable in appearance,
the reinforcing ribs around the
aft fuselage were not, being far
too prominent (in some photos
they are barely visible), thus their
height was reduced by sanding;
any clean-up between them was
accomplished with a needle file.
With the fuselage still in hand,
several of the resin antennas
 Marking areas that would need to be removed (or otherwise modified) ensured no
remedial work was required. As always…measure twice, cut once.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD
RC-135W RIVET JOINT
were tackled, and the saddle
aerial above the aft fuselage was
mounted after the underlying
ribs were removed. The refuelling
boom and associated sensor dome
were added once the kit parts had
been cut away carefully with a
razor saw. Triple-checking of the
instructions and references was
important, as a miss-cut would
lead to unnecessary remedial
work. Care was also needed when
removing the kit radome. Following
the guidance provided by S&M, the
model’s nose was removed slightly
ahead of the cut line indicated.  A mitre box was very useful for ensuring straight cuts and minimal errors. This was
This extra material was then filed especially important when conducting aviation rhinoplasty!
to the correct dimensions and
made square, thus ensuring all
would be aligned when the resin Aftermarket transformation
nose was mounted. The fit of the
replacement windscreen was just
about perfect, though, requiring
just a smear of putty. However,
the kit part could be used in a
pinch if desired.
Installation of the mainplanes was
positive and snug as they slotted
into their wing roots. This done,
the cheek sensor bulges could be
mounted. Cyanoacrylate (CA) glue
would usually be used with resin,
but as this adhesive tends to set
quickly, almost instantly in some
cases, Gator’s Grip white glue
(PVA) was chosen instead. Starting
with the port sensor pack, glue
was liberally applied to its inside
surface, then with the cargo door,
crew hatch, and wing root used as
guides, it was mounted in place.
Minicraft’s KC-135 kit was converted with the help of S&M Models’ bespoke
Airseeker set (SMC 44-15), which came with resin parts and decals.
Casting quality and detail, and the printing of the markings, is excellent and the
package is available from www.sandmmodels.co.uk, priced £25.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 59
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
RC-135W RIVET JOINT

The replacement nose and windscreen mated

almost perfectly, with just a small amount of
Mr. Surfacer needed to blend the seams.

 Once the outline of the saddle antenna  A fine-toothed razor saw made removing
was scribed with a blade, the underlying kit parts relatively simple. The key,
ribs were removed carefully, creating a however, was to work slowly and keep the
flush surface mount. saw blade moving in a straight line.

 The replacement refuelling boom did not completely cover the void created by removing the  The resin parts were well cast, but
Any excess adhesive that oozed kit part. To correct this, the area was backed with a piece of styrene, then filled with putty. care had to be taken to avoid damaging
out along its edge served to ensure them. For removal, they were scored
a gap-free seal. Once attached  The fit of S&M’s resin was excellent, being bespoke for Minicraft’s kit. Just a small repeatedly to separate them from
firmly, the same procedure was amount of adjustment and a hint of filler were needed to marry the parts neatly. their pour stubs.
followed on the starboard side.
After installing the ballast tank and
closing the main gear doors, the
fuselage was essentially complete.
The CFM engines provided by
S&M were sharp-looking units,
but more importantly, they were
designed purposely for this kit.
Clean-up of the two parts per
engine was speedy thanks to the
excellent casting, after which
they, along with the airframe and
tailplanes, received a coat of Model
Master (MM) 2737 Gray Primer
straight from the bottle. A few
minor flaws were revealed (such

is the benefit of primer) and thus
dealt with quickly.
Colour coats
The upper fuselage was base-
coated in a light layer of MM 2751
Flat White, followed by two coats
of MM 2720 Classic White. Each
layer was allowed to dry for at
least 48 hours, with the first coat
receiving a light sanding with
Wet and Dry prior to the top coat
being applied. With the airbrush
 Cheek sensor packs were mounted with a generous amount of PVA glue. Any excess still loaded with gloss white, the
adhesive along the edges was wiped away with a damp cotton swab, leaving a gap-free seal. undercarriage parts were painted;
these were small in 1/144 scale,
but Minicraft did a commendable
job of moulding the fine detail.
Once cured, the components were
highlighted with a pin wash of
Paynes Grey oil, while the wheels
were detailed with metallic paint
for the hub covers, and Tamiya
XF-69 NATO Black for the rubber.
The underside and wings of the
aircraft were sprayed MM 1731
Aircraft Gray, which is a gloss
shade. Care was needed when
masking to ensure the tape was
burnished onto the model’s surface

60 Airfix Model World

 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
RC-135W RIVET JOINT

 The main airframe undercoated and ready for paint. Model Master Gray Primer performed  Each paint layer was wet-sanded gently with 3,600-grade abrasive paper, to smooth any
well straight from the bottle, highlighting any flaws and leaving the surface paint ready. flaws and provide a key for each coat. The final application was polished for extra lustre.

properly, especially around the 28002 Gloss Black. As for the

The landing gear benefited
fuselage re-enforcing ribs, to powerplants, they’d been painted
from sharp detail. This
prevent the grey from bleeding grey at the same time as the was enhanced with an oil
under. In this case, just one coat fuselage, so then received metallic wash, which brought the
of paint was needed to achieve highlights. The intake was painted pieces into full three-
complete coverage. Alclad ALC-106 White Aluminum, dimensional life.
The last two areas of and the exhaust cone ALC-
major paint 102 Duraluminum. This was
work were then enhanced with a misting
the nose cone and of ALC-104 Pale Burnt Metal
engines. The former and ALC-113 Jet Exhaust to
was masked simulate heat staining.
and given a With all sub-assemblies
coat of MM painted, they could be married
to the airframe. The completed
gear struts fitted snuggly and
required gentle persuasion to
lock in place. Despite this effort,
it was better to mount them at
this stage than earlier, when they
could have been damaged. The
instructions called for the main

“A fine-toothed razor saw made

removing kit parts relatively simple”  A cocktail stick was used to burnish the masking tape, preventing paint bleed. This was
particularly important around the reinforcing ribs.
Boeing KC-135E gear doors to be bent to shape,
MODEL SPEC

which may have been a good idea,

By: Minicraft but proved problematic in practice.
Stock Code: 14627 The plastic was too thick, even in
Scale: 1/144 this scale, to bend cleanly, so the
simpler course of cutting the doors
Price: US $44.99
into pieces (and gluing them in the
Available from: correct position) was followed.
www.minicraftmodels.com As for the engines, the parts
mated almost perfectly, but even
after neatening the pylon and
mounting surface, a tight, gap-
free connection was not possible.
Each engine was attached with  The thimble radome receives a coat of gloss paint. There is no such thing as too much
medium-thickness CA, with the masking when spraying black, as any overspray can ruin a model’s appearance immediately.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 61
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
RC-135W RIVET JOINT

Health and safety

Here’s a word or two about working with resin. The level of detail gained via
polyurethane resin over plastic is impressive, but it does come with safety
concerns. Dust created through cutting and sanding can cause health issues,
usually due to inhalation; complications range from minor respiratory irritation
to asthma and emphysema. Eye irritation is also of concern should the particles
become airborne. Always wear breathing protection, at a minimum a dust mask but
preferably a respirator, which is also a good safety measure anyway when spray-
painting. The use of eye glasses/protection is a smart idea, too. When sanding
resin, add water to minimise the chance of creating airborne dust particles, and
when finished, clean your work station immediately and thoroughly.

 The resin engines were well cast. Highlighting involved adding a few metallic shades to
the intake lip and exhaust cone, all executed with Alclad lacquers.

Two-part epoxy putty, such as

Apoxie Sculpt (www.avesstudio.
com), adds structural strength,
and can be smoothed with a
damp finger or cotton swab,
thus negating sanding.

 Just some of the necessary tools for working with resin. Its characteristics mean that
 Parafilm makes an excellent low-tack mask for covering decals. It was used to protect a different approach is needed compared to plastic, not least of all for safety reasons.
the cockpit markings and fuselage stripes, so the anti-glare panel could be painted.

remaining void, small as it might life. The markings supplied by

have been, filled with two-part
epoxy putty. This material had the
advantage of additional bonding
strength, and because it could
be smoothed with a damp finger
or cotton swab, no sanding was
required. Once the putty was dry,
it was touched up carefully with
a light spray of Aircraft Gray. This
same technique was followed to
attach the fin top aerial.
Swift and sure
It was finally time to start adding
the decals, which was the point
where the model really came to
S&M were printed by the Czech
Republic’s Boa Agency, and
performed very well indeed. If any
criticism could be found, it was
that some markings were a touch
large, while others, such as the red
stripes for the refuelling receptacle
and turbine warnings, were
missing. The windscreen was first
to be mounted, as it was needed to
set the angle for the black cheat
line. The decal sheet provided an
ample number of the latter for this
task, and these were left to set
overnight. Twenty-four hours later,
the nose area was masked and the

62 Airfix Model World


“The work required is
not beyond the skills of
most modellers, and
the results are well
worth the effort”
anti-glare panel sprayed.
The remaining decals went on in
short order, thus was their quality
and limited number; the only area
left unmarked was the tail, which
would be dealt with once the high-
frequency probe was mounted, and
any remedial painting completed.
Though similar in appearance
to its American cousin, the RAF
machine is something of a different
bird, meaning the antenna arrays
on the aircraft were not identical.
The S&M instructions did give
some basic information, but
INTERMEDIATE BUILD
RC-135W RIVET JOINT
 The antenna layout was complex,
and specific to RAF aircraft. Time spent
studying the instructions and photos
was needed to ensure an accurate layout.
the bulk of the references were
discovered on the Internet. After
careful study, the vast collection of
antennas, which S&M provided in
bulk, were mounted…first on the
belly and then the upper fuselage,
with either CA or PVA glue. Once
the entire airframe was completed,
it received a light misting of MM
1409 Metalizer Sealer to protect
the finish and reduce the glare of
the gloss paint.
Sneaky-beaky fun
This was a case where the heart
most certainly led the brain.
Upon learning it was possible to
create a scale version of the RAF's
Rivet Joint, the desire to build one
of these unique aircraft just had to
be quenched. Both the Minicraft
base kit and S&M's conversion are
fine pieces of model engineering.
The former product will build into
an excellent KC-135 on its own,
but the aftermarket resin parts
elevated this subject to a much
higher level in terms of detail
and interest. The work required
is not beyond the skills of most
modellers, and the results are  A simple jig, made from a small box and packing material, came in handy for supporting
well worth the effort. the model when work had to be done on its underside.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 63
 PHOTO FOCUS
RAF RC-135W

Rivet Joint
Blighty’s

Find useful airframe details of the RAF’s RC-135W in these official RAF photos…
the perfect reference to accompany this issue’s 'Airseeker' build

(Both: RAF Waddington Photo Section)

64 Airfix Model World

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 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
SE.5a WOLSELEY VIPER

Eric Larson finds

there’s much to
love about Eduard’s
latest Great War gem

SCHWEINHUND!
D
espite initial line of superb 1/48 World War One decals for five schemes. Minor
developmental aircraft from the firm, were two differences between the schemes
difficulties, the Royal SE.5a airframes based on engine were noted throughout the
Aircraft Factory’s boxy types; Hispano-Suiza (Hisso), and instructions, so a decision on which
little SE.5a eventually became a Wolseley Viper (the subject of this to build was made before starting.
formidable fighter, and was the project). The ProfiPACK edition
mount of several aces, including comprised one clear and two grey Packed with details
Albert Ball and James McCudden. styrene runners, a photo-etched Assembly began with the interior
Eduard’s new toolings, in a long (PE) metal fret, paint masks, and structure, where it was apparent
the detail and engineering was on
a par with larger-scale offerings.  The kit’s PE fret included several
Vallejo Panzer Aces 70.310 Old optional items, not all of which were used;
Wood, AMMO-MIG A.MIG-037 New the control linkages required exceptional
Wood or A.MIG-038 Light Wood care, to avoid bending the wires.
was airbrushed over Stynylrez
SE.5a Wolseley Viper
MODEL SPEC

SNR-201 White Primer (www.

badgerairbrush.com) to prepare By: Eduard
the cockpit parts and fuselage
Stock Code: 82131
interior areas for wood effect
treatments. The different base Scale: 1/48
colours then received streaks of Price: €29.95
Yellow Ochre, Raw Sienna, and
Available from: www.eduard.com
Raw Umber oil paints to achieve
the desired grain effect. Drying
time for the oils was reduced by
adding a drop of Naphtha (in this
case Zippo lighter fluid), but they
were still set aside for two days,
 On the real aircraft, the fuselage interiors were a mix of natural wood, bleached linen before being sealed with Tamiya
and aluminium, and these hues were reproduced accordingly. X-22 Clear. Interior fabric areas

66 Airfix Model World


Red or Green…
Eduard was generous once again,
with five schemes, and while there
were four PC10-clad airframes, it was
impossible not to be drawn to the
red fuselage of Captain DW Grinnell-
Milne’s machine:
• C.1096/White 3, Lt HJ Burden, 56 Sqn
RFC, Valheureux, France, Spring 1918
• F.8146/White 9, 27th Aero Sqn,
United States Army Air Service
(USAAS), 1922
• F.8953/V ‘Crieff’, 2Lt SC Elliot, 85 Sqn
RAF, Ascq, France, December 1918
• F.8038/White 15 ‘Tunis’, 25th Aero
Sqn, USAAS, November 1918
• C.1149/W ‘Schweinhund’, Capt
DW Grinnell-Milne, 56 Sqn RAF,
Béthencourt, France, Ascq, France,
January 1919
received Mr Paint MRP-256 Clear
Doped Linen, while Alclad’s ALC-101
Aluminium was used for the engine
bay’s metal sections.
Most of the cockpit painting
proceeded as per the instructions,
but Dark Iron-annotated areas
were coloured satin black instead,
after checking references. Another
“Cockpit bracing was fashioned
from scavenged fine copper wire”
INTERMEDIATE BUILD
SE.5a WOLSELEY VIPER
exception was the firewall (part
Wood grain variations were created by applying various
B8) which was painted ALC-101 oil paints over base colours of 70.310 Old Wood,
Aluminium. Side frames, cross A.MIG-037 New Wood or A.MIG-038 Light Wood.
supports and other parts were
then brought together to form
a sturdy cockpit sub-assembly.
Generally, the fit was very good,
but tolerances were tight, so
dry-fitting was advisable. Cockpit
bracing was fashioned from
scavenged fine copper wire
(although it would probably
have been better to use stiff
wire instead), and inserted into
conveniently moulded slots on the
outer framework, despite these
being virtually invisible on the
finished model.
 Fine copper wire from a miniature electric motor was used for the interior braces, but in
The pilot’s seat cushion received hindsight, stiff wire would have been better.
a base coat of Andrea Color XNAC-
49 Dark Brown Leather, followed by
Raw and Burnt Sienna oils dabbed
on with foam rubber, before it was
dry-brushed with Yellow Ochre
for a slightly worn appearance. PE
seatbelts were bent to shape and
secured with Gator’s Grip.
Decal instrument faces were
chosen over the seemingly
cruder PE items, with Micro Sol
used to settle each onto the
panel, before it was sealed with
a drop of clear gloss. As more
parts were added, this small sub-
assembly – a mere 1¾in (45mm)
long – soon became crowded,
which resulted in uncertainty
regarding the positioning of a
few pieces, but a convenient side-
view diagram ensured proper
placement. The completed unit
was then set aside and attention
turned to the wings.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 67
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
SE.5a WOLSELEY VIPER

Though a mere 1¾in Control surface

(45mm) in length, the joins were
cockpit sub-assembly reinforced by
contained an amazing drilling the parts
amount of detail. with an 80-gauge
(0.34mm) bit,
before they were
pinned with 0.15mm
brass wire.

 Here, three of the four moulded rigging dimples were drilled to allow Bob’s Buckles
eyelets to be fitted. Note, the two larger holes are for the outer struts.

On linen wings shade, while a combination of

First, wing and tail control surfaces
were secured with short lengths
of brass wire, which were glued
into carefully drilled holes to
strengthen the attachment points.
Also, dimples indicating rigging
end points were deepened with
an 80-gauge (0.34mm) bit, into
which shortened Bob’s Buckles
eyelets (www.bobsbuckles.co.uk)
were placed and secured with
cyanoacrylate (CA) glue. This was
repeated for additional points
determined from references. As
per the instructions, the wing-
top Lewis gun was omitted from
this particular aircraft, and the
associated location holes filled.
Cockpit and engine bay floors
were then masked, before
Stynylrez SNT-161 White Primer
was applied to the wings,
horizontal tails, and control
surfaces. Next, details inside
the triangular inspection
openings in the wings and
tailplane were painted and,
when dry, transparent covers
and PE frames were glued
in place with Gator’s Grip;
masks were then applied to
the inspection covers.
For the wing and tail upper
surfaces, MRP-253 PC10 Late
was chosen as the primary
MRP-256 Clear Doped Linen (CDL)
Bleached, MRP-258 CDL Variant 2
and Mister Kit BC-05 British CDL
(www.misterkit.com) was used for
the undersides. The wings and
tailplane undersides first received
CDL Bleached, then 1mm Tamiya
Tape strips were placed over
each rib and a well-thinned mix
of Tamiya XF-69 NATO Black and
X-19 Smoke was airbrushed lightly
along either side of the strips.
Several coats of CDL Variant
2 were then applied, followed
by a light overspray of British
CDL between the ribs. As the
PC10 extended over the wing

68 Airfix Model World


and tailplane edges and onto the
undersides, the lower surfaces
were masked, leaving a 2mm
strip around the edges. PC10
(lightened with a few drops of
XF-60 Dark Yellow) was then
applied over the ribs. These
were masked subsequently,
shading being added with XF-69
NATO Black. Finally, neat PC10
was applied overall, before the
masking was removed. These
steps (followed by weathering
treatments) resulted in subtle
colour variations, adding depth
and visual interest to the wings.
Back in the office
Next, the rudder pedals and flare
pistol were added to the cockpit
floor, followed by the interior sub-
assembly itself. As this aircraft
 Inspection panels in the wings and tailplane featured convincing pulley and control line
details, which were covered with transparent inserts after being painted.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD
SE.5a WOLSELEY VIPER
“It was apparent the detail
and engineering was on a par
with larger-scale offerings”
lacked the Lewis gun, the floor-
mounted spare cartridge holder
(Part B12) was omitted. The
wings were then set aside and
attention turned to the fuselage.
Several bulkheads and a brace
were cemented into one side, with
alignment ensured by dry-fitting
the opposing half until the glue
dried. The fuselage was then
closed, with cement applied just
where they met behind the cockpit,
which made fitting the lower wing
and cockpit assembly easier. After
the seams were neatened, the
interior surfaces were masked and
the fuselage received Mr. Color
C3 Red. The lower wing assembly
was then mated with the fuselage
and liquid cement applied to all
contact points, including the
interior bulkheads.
 Replicating the clear-doped linen finish on the wing and tail undersides required several
painting and shading stages. A similar process was undertaken with the PC10 upper surfaces.
Extensive masking was
required to replicate the PC10
overlap on the wing undersides.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 69
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
SE.5a WOLSELEY VIPER

The fuselage’s diminutive size

(even in 1/48 scale) was evident
from the single clothes’ peg
used to secure the aft section
while the glue cured.

 The fit of the cockpit sub-assembly onto the lower wing/cockpit floor was perfect.
Unfortunately, much of this exquisite detail would be hidden on the completed model.

 Eduard provided a PE cross-member for the fuselage underside opening, but this was
replaced with more realistic 10-thou (0.3mm) stainless steel wire. It was installed after the
fuselage was assembled rather than before, as indicated in the instructions.

Undercarriage supports
were finished with a
combination of wood
effects, satin black and
PC10. Four brass eyelets
were added to the upper
front ‘leg’; the lower
pairs were extended with
1mm Polyimide tubing.
Replacement exhaust
vent tubes were fashioned
from bronze wire, with the
locating holes deepened
by a 78-gauge (0.4mm) bit
for a more secure fit.

 Patience was the watchword when it came to rigging, and this was applied after the cabane
AMMO-MIG’s Rust colours set struts, exhaust pipe brace, windscreen, Aldis sight and Vickers gun had been attached.
was employed to replicate
the effects of corrosion on
the exhaust pipes, and was
applied over a black base.

70 Airfix Model World


References
RAF SE.5a – Windsock Datafile
Special, by JM Bruce (Albatros
Productions), ISBN: 978-0-948414-47-2
Royal Aircraft Factory SE.5 1916
Onwards, by Nick Garton (Haynes),
ISBN: 978-0-85733-846-4
Aircraft # 69: SE.5a in Action,
by John F Connors (Squadron/Signal
Publications), ISBN: 978-0-89747-191-1
Aircraft of the Aces #78: SE.5/5a
Aces of World War 1, by Norman
Franks (Osprey), ISBN: 978-1-84603-
180-9
Duel #20: SE.5a vs Albatros D.V,
by Jon Guttman (Osprey),
ISBN: 978-1-84603-471-8
Aircraft in Profile #1: The SE.5a,
by JM Bruce (Profile Publications),
ISBN: 978-0-85383-410-5
Instructions and archival photos
for the Wingnut Wings SE.5a on its
website (www.wingnutwings.com)
INTERMEDIATE BUILD
SE.5a WOLSELEY VIPER
The radiator and exquisite Aqua Gloss Clear, the decals were decals were cut with a scalpel,
Wolseley Viper engine were applied with plenty of Micro Set. brushed with Micro Sol and left to
assembled and painted; a test-fit The large wing markings required dry. Another varnish coat sealed
revealed it could be positioned gentle rubbing with a damp the decals and when fully cured,
after the radiator was attached, cotton bud to remove air bubbles, the markings were treated in
so it was set aside until later. The followed by careful application the same manner as the painted
forward upper fuselage comprised of heat with a hairdryer, which surfaces, with the ribs masked
three parts, with the front and softened the decals and helped and intervening areas airbrushed
rear sections requiring holes to them settle. To ensure a painted with NATO Black/Smoke. The few
be drilled to receive rigging lines, appearance over the ailerons, the fuselage and tail decals went on
which ran from the fuselage
to the upper wing. The centre
section (part B65) was attached
first, then the resin Vickers gun
breach was installed in the cockpit
prior to cementing the aft section.
After masking the lower wing,
several seams around the cockpit
opening were neatened and the
paint tidied carefully. The front
section (engine cover) was set
aside until later.
Decals already?
With biplanes and other rigged
aircraft, it’s often easier to apply
decals early in the build, so the
subsequent wires, cables, multiple
wings and other easily broken
exterior parts weren’t in the way.  A SRAM biplane jig provided support for the airframe and upper wing while the rigging
After a sealing layer of ALC-600 lines were installed. Loose ends were secured temporarily with Tamiya tape.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 71
 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
SE.5a WOLSELEY VIPER

And there’s more…

As a ProfiPACK release, a stunning model was possible straight from the box, but
Eduard also offered separate upgrade sets and four were used here:

 Finely detailed resin Lewis and Vickers guns/mounts were supplied in the SE.5a Guns
package (648299). Just the latter was used here and conveniently, it was in two parts,
which allowed breach and barrel to be installed separately.
 The replacement radiator (648 298) was more refined than the kit item, although the
latter would certainly look the part when painted and weathered.
 Compared to the kit wheels (left), the aftermarket replacements were a quantum leap,
with superior replication of the fabric-covered spokes and manufacturer’s logo decals.

 Eduard Brassin’s 648297 SE.5a Propeller Two-blade (right-rotating) was appropriate

for Viper-engined machines; notably, the blades were slightly narrower in chord than the
styrene item, but research showed both were correct.

next, also responding well to Micro
Set/Sol, and were also sealed with
gloss varnish.
Attention then turned to
the various parts that would
eventually festoon the airframe.
Cabane struts were painted PC10,
while the outer wing struts and
undercarriage supports received
a woodgrain treatment of Van
Dyke Brown and Yellow Ochre oil
paints, streaked over an A.MIG-
038 Light Wood base. Metal
fittings were painted satin black,
while propeller grain was created
with A.MIG-036 Old Wood and Van
Dyke Brown, before the prop’ hub
received Vallejo Model Air 71.065
Steel…details were highlighted
with a thin black-brown oil wash.
The wheels were painted MC 69
Off-White, with a 50/50 mix of
70.306 Dark Rubber and 70.305
Light Rubber used for the tyres.
Simulated heat and rust effects
on the prominent exhaust pipes
were achieved with A.MIG-7106
Rust Effects, the tones being
daubed (from darkest to lightest)
with an old brush and piece of
foam rubber.
Careful consideration was
required when determining the
final assembly sequence, to
minimise the risk of breakage
while handling and not interfere
with later steps. Starting with
the cabane struts, they were
cemented to the fuselage, with
the upper wing positioned
temporarily to ensure alignment.
When the glue had dried, rigging
lines were attached and tightened
as described in the next section.
Next, the engine was installed and
the cover clipped into position,
and as the fit was so good, no
glue was required. The exhaust
pipes were then secured to the
engine, followed by small PE
braces, inserted between the pipe
ends and the fuselage. Lastly, the
Vickers gun barrel, bead sight,
windscreen, and Aldis sight were
installed, the latter involving
several delicate PE parts.

“A stunning model was

possible straight from the box”

72 Airfix Model World

 INTERMEDIATE BUILD
SE.5a WOLSELEY VIPER

Rigging rigmarole
British biplane rigging was often
more complex than that of other
nations and the SE.5a was no
exception. Eduard thoughtfully
indicated many rigging
attachment points with small
moulded dimples in the wings and
struts, though research revealed
a few were missed. Thorough
study of the kit’s rigging diagrams
(which also lacked the landing
wires), combined with those
from Wingnut Wings’ kit (www.
wingnutwings.com) and reference
photos clarified placement.
Preparation began by deepening
the aforementioned dimples
carefully with an 80-gauge
(0.34mm) bit, into which shortened
Bob’s Buckle eyelets were secured
with CA glue. Holes were also
drilled in additional areas as
determined from references.
Uschi van der Rosten’s Standard
(0.03mm) elastic rigging line
was chosen, due to its flexibility
and ease of handling. Also, the
latter’s rectangular cross-section
better represented the SE.5a’s
aerodynamic-shaped bracing place on the lower wing, the model Lastly, the undercarriage unit surface, where dirt would be kicked
wires. Though typical turnbuckles was supported in a jig and the was attached and, with the model up by the wheels.
were not used with the RAF wires, upper wing positioned above on its supported on its back, the four
1mm lengths of 27-gauge (3.6mm) trailing edge. The rigging was then pairs of forward flying wires were Raising the bar
Polyimide tubing represented connected to the latter, but left installed. Though the Uschi line can With this little beauty, Eduard
the end fittings. Starting with the slack temporarily. be painted, it was decided to leave has arguably produced one of
lower wing, 8-10in (200-250mm) The upper wing was then it in its natural charcoal black. the finest injection-moulded
lengths of line were secured to cemented to the cabane struts and The fiddliest bits were saved until 1/48 World War One aircraft
the previously installed eyelets, allowed to dry overnight. Before last – the PE control linkages. There available, and it’s up there with
the excess length providing slack, being inserted between the wings, was initial doubt regarding their Wingnut Wings in terms of overall
which made later work easier. At each pair of outer struts received appearance, but once installed and finesse and quality (albeit in
each wire end, a Polyimide tube two lines in an X-pattern, attached painted they looked the part. a smaller scale). The SE.5a’s
was added, then the line was to moulded eyelets. These were Subtle weathering effects were complex rigging and tiny delicate
passed through an eyelet and back also left slack, until the struts created with a thin black-brown parts may prove challenging to
through the tube, pulled tight, and were in position, after which each oil pin wash to highlight fuselage inexperienced modellers, but
secured with a tiny drop of CA. was pulled tight, secured with CA, details, and AK Interactive’s AK-012 those with one or two similar
Once all lines (except the four pairs and the loose ‘tail’ cut carefully Streaking Grime on the wing builds under their belt should
of forward flying wires) were in where it exited the Polyimide tube. undersides, particularly the lower thoroughly enjoy this kit.

 Rigging lines between the vertical and horizontal tail passed through pre-drilled holes,  The final challenge was to attach the forward wing rigging lines to eyelets just above
and then anchored to eyelets installed on either side of the tail skid fairing. The delicate the undercarriage struts. The complex nature of the SE.5a’s bracing wires was immediately
PE control linkages were the last pieces to be added. apparent from this view.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 73
 ONLINE PHONE POST
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 ON THE SHELF
BOOKS
BIG CAT TRIUMVIRATE
Jaguar Royal Air Force, Armée de
l’Air, Indian Air Force
By: N Deboeck, R Pied
ISBN: N/A Price: €20
Format: 240 x 240mm
Web: www.hmh-publications.com
Duke Hawkins is a new pseudonym
imprint from HMH Publications, and
its first book centres on the Sepecat
Jaguar, featuring airframes operated
mostly by the UK and India. While
there have been various books on
the type, HMH’s fresh approach
mixes walk-round attention with
coffee table-style imagery…but that’s
FAMOUS GUNSHIP UNPEALED
Mil Mi-24/35 Hind
By: Jakub Fotik
ISBN: 978-83-65281-53-1
Price: £29 Format: A4 softback
Web: www.mmpbooks.biz
It’s unarguable that the Mi-24
deserves ‘legendary’ status,
alongside other Cold War types
such as the F-4 Phantom and
MiG-21. Here, one is treated to
a stunning examination of this
gunship and its impressive global
footprint. The book initially
explores Hind predecessors
and the Mi-24 prototype, before
SEND IN YOUR PRODUCTS FOR US TO REVIEW: Airfix Model World, Key Publishing Ltd, Units 1-4 Gwash Way Industrial Estate, Ryhall Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1XP, UK
76 View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
82 pages
not a bad thing. The blend means
there isn’t quite as much exhaustive
‘unpeeling of the skin’ as in, say,
the works by DACO, but the plus is
that besides close-up inspection of
the aircraft, inside and out, one can
also revel in the Jaguar’s colour
schemes and shapely lines. It’s
pleasing to see India’s maritime
attack, radar-equipped Jaguar
IM, but equally interesting is the
‘standard’ single-seat Indian Jaguar
post refit, with new defensive aids
and GPS blisters, removed starboard
gun and re-profiled nose, and the
two-seaters with fixed refuelling
probe and starboard nose avionics
strake. Cockpit photos of the
Jaguar GR.1/3 and ‘E’ are present,
(and some ejection seat views) but
there’s a notable lack of French
Jaguar airframe shots...which is
a shame, as the Armée de l’Air’s
desert camouflage schemes differed
considerably to the colours worn
by Indian and RAF versions. That
said, this is still a splendid softback,
and a great reference for anyone
considering Jaguar kit builds. CC
216 pages
delving into A/B production
models. All production variants
are then described in order;
Mi-24D/V and P, and the latest
VP airframes, Mi-35 and upgrade
activity by various companies in
the Czech Republic, Israel, France,
Slovakia, South Africa, Ukraine,
Russia and even the UK. There’s
also a fascinating chapter on
rare prototypes that didn’t reach
production, and information on
re-export deals…exemplifying the
type’s worldwide success. While
the text is informative, modellers
will also love the many 1/72 scale
black and white line drawings, and
particularly the colour profiles, as
these offer heaps of inspiration
for potential colour schemes
on models. Standout examples
include Hinds flown by Vietnam,
Peru, Azerbaijan, Yemen and
Ukraine…all notable for their
attractive liveries. An awesome
reference, but it does highlight the
lack of new equipment available
for the Mi-24/35 in scale form, so
ingenuity and scratch-building will
be vital when portraying up-to-
date airframes. CC
THE SLEEKER ‘TONKA’
58 pages
Warpaint Series No.13 Panavia
Tornado ADV
By: Des Brennan
ISBN: N/A Price: £16 Format: A4
Web: guidelinepublications.co.uk
Older modellers will know the
Warpaint series well, such is its
longevity. It’s surprising, though,
that a Tornado volume has not
been published before, but the
move is timed well for those
primed to build Revell’s new 1/48
kit. The usual format is followed,
via fact-heavy history text, colour
photos of varying quality and
colour profiles (and one set of plan/ and Italian Air Force examples,
underside views); four pages of although like some other chapters,
black and white 1/72 line drawings the calibre of certain images
sit in the centre. The photos offer lets down the overall package;
an extensive visual study of the small and grainy photos being
F.2/F.3, from the prototype aircraft less helpful, obviously. The walk-
and early service airframes, to round section is useful, despite
F.3s knocking on retirement's door. the small size of the images, and
What is interesting, is how the tables listing serial/unit codes
camouflage shades changed over (and squadrons), have their own
the interceptor variant’s career, value. Richard Caruana’s artwork
and it makes for more choice in is the shining light in this softback
finishes on models. Export aircraft book, which should please many a
feature too, via coverage of Saudi Tornado fan. CC
LEATHERNECK SNAPPERS 208 pages
USMC Phantoms - The RF-4B
Phantom II in the Tactical
Reconnaissance Role
By: Lee R DeHaven, Richard Rentrop
ISBN: 978-3-935687-86-7
Price: €45.95 Format: 302 x 216mm
Web: www.shopofphantoms.com
The subject may be too narrow for
some fans of jets in general, but no
serious Phantom enthusiast should
be without this thumping hardback
on US Marine Corps RF-4Bs. It’s a
topic that's seldom explored print-
wise, but that’s all changed with this
insightful tome. The design echoes
previous volumes in this Doubly
Ugly series, with an engaging mix
of excellent photos, well-researched follow for VMCJ-1 ‘Golden Hawks’,
text and convincing colour profiles. VMCJ-2 ‘Playboys’, VMCJ-3 ‘Eyes
Development, construction and and Ears of the Corps’ and VMFP-3
modification of this ‘Rhino’ sub- ‘Eyes of the Corps’, all bursting with
type are covered in the opening stunning imagery, exemplifying the
chapter, and this is fascinating, Light Gull Gray over White, overall
with specifications and factory LGG and Tactical Paint Scheme. While
drawings/photos of recce-associated this might be a splendid book for any
equipment. The seldom-seen AN/ Phantom aficionado, it’s a simply
ALQ-120 ECM pod appears in several corking reference modelling-wise and
views, and will enable modellers to recommended to anyone holding kits
make a decent attempt at scratch- of the RF-4B in their stash, regardless
building the store. Squadron histories of scale. CC

SCANDINAVIAN COURIERS
Northrop Delta AB Aerotransport
By: Rob JM Mulder
ISBN: 978-82-93450-00-9
Price: €21.10 Format: 304 x 217mm
Web: www.europeanairlines.no
Classy design and fastidiously
researched content make this book
vital for those interested in vintage
civil aviation. It tells the story of how
Swedish company AB Aerotransport
managing director, Carl Florman,
spotted a Northrop Gamma in
FAST AND LIGHT
British Cruiser Tanks A9 and A10
By: Peter Brown
ISBN: 978-83-60672-28-0
Price: £32.95
Format: 290 x 205mm
Web: casematepublishing.co.uk
The concept of thinly armoured
tanks, which relied on speed
for survival, paralleled that of
infantry tanks, which had thicker
protection and heavier main
armament. Armor PhotoHistory’s
expanded format volume caters
for the Cruisers Mk.I and Mk.II,
176 pages
Norway…and thought this firm’s
aircraft would be ideal for his fleet.
The company had flown mainly
German types until the purchase of
two Northrop Deltas, a passenger-
carrying 1C (SE-ADI ‘Halland’) in
October 1933, then a 1E mailplane
three months later. The process of
converting to both was challenging
and, ultimately, catastrophic for
the 1E (SE-ADW ‘Småland’), which
crashed during a trial mail flight.
Rob Mulder’s text is enjoyable, and
the period photos give a true feel
for these aircraf; the mother lode
in reference for anyone wishing to
build them. Azur-Fromm makes a
1/72 1C in the correct markings, but
conversion work would be necessary
for the 1E. Every facet of AB’s
association with these the Deltas is
documented, including the eventual
sale of the 1C to Spain's Líneas
Aéreas Postales Españolas. There
are also chapters on AB’s aircraft
before it purchased the Deltas, and
Northrop’s other ‘Greek Alphabet’
types, while the book closes with
superb colour artwork and 1C/1E
type-difference drawings. CC
88 pages
which were also known by their
British Army designations of
A9 and A10. There are four
sections; the first deals with the
types’ history and development,
before the superb photo gallery
crammed with more than 100
archival shots (occupying most
of the publication). While these
mainly show the vehicles in full,
they offer a complete portrayal of
these light but speedy machines,
from barracks and training ground,
through to desert and northern
European theatres of combat.
The final two parts provide 1/35
scale plans, engineering drawings
and ten full-colour three-views of
notable vehicles. These include
several Eighth Army and British
Expeditionary Force examples,
highlighting the prevalence of the
type during the early phases of
World War Two. Whether one has
Bronco’s 1/35 A10 or is waiting
for Gecko Models’ Cruisers, this
fascinating volume offers plenty of
inspiration and detail, regardless
of a modeller’s experience level;
the comprehensive captions
should ensure an accurate build at
the very least. SF
FIRST OF THE CHARIOTS
Merkava 1 Siman 1 in IDF Service
Part 1
By: Michael Mass, Adam O’Brien
ISBN: 978-965-7700-07-5
Price: £29.50
Format: 279 x 215mm
Web: www.aviationbookcentre.com
Strictly speaking, Israel’s
Merkava series is more of a
multi-role fighting vehicle than
just a tank, as it's designed for
armoured personnel carrier,
rescue and even combat
ambulance roles. Desert Eagle’s
groundbreaking collection of IDF
Armor titles has now covered the
original Mk.1 variant, providing
a fascinating backdrop to the
later Mk.IIIs and IVs, all of which
share the front-mounted engine
design. Its authors delve into
the Merkava’s (chariot) genesis,
caused by the refusal of the
British government to export
Chieftains…despite this, the
Israelis went from initial decision
(to design) to operational service
in just nine years. A lengthy photo
study of the type concentrates
on the upgraded Mk.I Hybrid (a
mixture of Mk.I hull with Mk.II
DASSAULT DELTAS – HISTORIC UNIT
Mirage IIIC/B The First Jet
Squadron 1962-1979
By: Ra’anan Weiss
ISBN: 978-965-7220-20-7
Price: US $26 Format: A4 softback
Web: www.isradecal.com
The second of IsraDecal’s Israeli Air
Force Mini Photo Albums explores
the Mirage IIIC/B’s service with The
First Jet Squadron; so-called as it
was the first Israeli unit to fly jets, in
the shape of the Gloster Meteor.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 77
ON THE SHELF
BOOKS
83 pages
systems, exhausts and armour),
highlighting the various changes
during its service life. This is
a goldmine of information for
modellers, with close-ups of all
aspects of the vehicle’s interior
and exterior, emphasising specific
equipment and fittings. There
are even extended sequences
showing how a track and engine
are changed, and how the tank is
refuelled…cue diorama builders!
Better still, the release is timed
perfectly to coincide with Takom’s
new-tool 1/35 Mk.I and Mk.I
Hybrid (see News, this issue). SF
66 pages
Here, one receives a wealth of
mostly black and white period
photos of Dassault’s delectable delta
wearing Star of David insignia, and
modellers will find this an invaluable
reference source. Thankfully, there is
a handful of colour images of IIICs in
natural metal, which will help anyone
building the aircraft to achieve just
the right metallic tone. Non-colour
images are packed with useful
detail, though, along with plenty of
diorama inspiration…the latter being
exemplified by the photos on p.12, of
a IIIC being hoisted by a crane after
a landing accident. Weapons loading
and the stores themselves are also
depicted, reminding us the Mirage
was a useful bomber as well as an
interceptor. Bare-metal aircraft soon
make way for that classic Israeli
three-tone upper camouflage, and
famous airframes feature too, such
as IIIC no.83, with its multiple kill
markings (shown after its transfer
from The Bat Squadron). Ten colour
profiles (including a low-vis grey
jet) decorate the inside-front/
back covers, and kill/loss tables are
supplied; it’s Mirage heaven! CC
 ON THE SHELF
BOOKS
AMERICAN LEVIATHANS
Battleships of the United States
Navy
By: Michael Green
ISBN: 978-1-78303-035-4
Price: £14.99 Format: 246 x 190mm
Web: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
Don’t be fooled by the cover...
this isn’t just a treatise on one or
two battleship classes, but rather
it documents every vessel of the
type that served with the US Navy.
Understandably, the earliest ships
don’t feature well in terms of photos,
but examples have been uncovered
HIGH-SPEED TALLY HO!
Allied Jet Killers of World War 2
By: Stephen Chapis and
Andrew Thomas
ISBN: 978-1-4728-2352-6
Price: £13.99 Format: 247 x 185mm
Web: www.ospreypublishing.com
It must have been a shock for
Allied pilots in 1944, on seeing
strange, propeller-less German
aircraft rising to meet them, and
this Aircraft of the Aces volume
deals with these airborne battles
in remarkable detail. A brief
introduction outlines jet/rocket
78 View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
190 pages
from various archives, dating from
the 1890s onwards. Its four main
sections each address an epoch
in ship design, starting with pre-
dreadnoughts, and analysing the
changes as all big-gun vessels came
to the fore, with increasingly larger
weapon calibres, and finally the
advent of the fast battleships. Naval
nomenclature can be confusing,
but here the author tackles it with
gusto, describing and explaining
first- and second-class battleships,
pre-dreadnoughts, dreadnoughts,
super-dreadnoughts before
returning to battleships. Each section
then deals with the varied classes of
ship in chronological order, providing
textual descriptions and operational
anecdotes before the photographic
element, and the majority of
individual ships are captured in the
photos. Most are black and white,
but one or two rare colour shots
from World War Two are included…
more recent photos are all the latter
type, especially the modernised
Iowa-class battleships. Maritime fans
will appreciate the range of subjects
covered, and this is a treasure trove
of information for modellers. SF
96 pages
types (Me 262, Me 163, He 163
and Ar 234), developed to counter
increasing Allied bombing efforts.
Given the greater numbers of
USAAF fighters roaming European
skies, compared to those from
other nations, it’s unsurprising
that two-thirds of the pages
cover clashes between Luftwaffe
jets and US P-51s and P-47s
(and the occasional P-38). Four
chapters are filled with operational
narratives from American aviators,
and what sets this apart from
other accounts is the inclusion of
collaborative excerpts from the
German side. Sections discussing
Commonwealth/Soviet victories
are understandably shorter (the
latter amounted to just five kills,
as most jet sorties were over
western Europe), but equally
interesting and informative. The
black and white photos depict
noted jet-killing fighters, and
these are accompanied by colour
profiles of their aircraft (21 US,
11 Commonwealth, one Soviet).
Whether researching the history
or seeking build inspiration, this is
a useful and easy read. SF
A NATION IN STRUGGLE
Hot Skies over Yemen
By: Tom Cooper
ISBN: 9768-1-912174-23-2
Price: £16.95
Format: A4
Web: casematepublishers.co.uk
This is the first of at least two
volumes documenting aerial
warfare over the southern
Arabian Peninsula, from 1962 to
1994, when the region emerged
from foreign rule, erupted into
civil war, and was then unified
as Yemen before descending
briefly into civil war again.
Notably, the author refrains
SECOND STUDY OF A JET ICON
Lightning – Volume II
By: Ian Black
ISBN: N/A
Price: £39.99
Format: 252 x 315mm
Web: www.firestreakbooks.com
Renowned as the last pilot to be
trained to fly the mighty Lightning,
Ian Black has always been a keen
photographer…and we are all
the better for it. His first volume
on this legendary interceptor
provided superb images; arty
and evocative coffee table-style
studies, as well as photos packed
with detail for modellers. There
is more of the same in this book
via Ian’s own material, and photos
from other sources, and there’s
something for every Lightning
fan, from 1960s colour shots of
bare-metal machines with vivid
squadron markings, and 1970s-80s
green-grey camouflage, to the
successive low-vis grey schemes…
which involved many different
patterns/demarcations. One thing
72 pages
from discussion on sovereign
foreign involvement (notably
the British Royal Air Force)
and instead concentrates on
local air arms. In doing so, this
book fills a yawning chasm
in the available knowledge
on military operations in the
Arabian Peninsula, during post-
independence battles between
North (Yemeni Arab Republic)
and South (People’s Democratic
Republic) Yemen. Given the
complex political allegiances,
there was a motley assortment
of assets on all sides, with
British-built Strikemasters and
Hunters mixing it with exported
MiG-15s, -19s and -21s, and
Su-22s and Il-28s. Tom Cooper’s
deep understanding of the
region is demonstrated by the
combat descriptions, and the
excellent collection of black and
white photographs add further
context; these are supported
by excellent colour profiles of
the various fighters, bombers
and helicopters employed.
In summary, Hot Skies is an
engrossing read, but also
offers considerable inspiration
for aircraft modellers. Highly
recommended. SF
128 pages
is guaranteed though – there's
plenty of pictorial reference for
weathering, as the Lightning
wasn’t exactly a clean machine
day-to-day, especially late in its
career. A truly ‘wow’ shot shows
a low-vis grey aircraft inverted
at low level, while another is a
masterclass in how to finish a
grubby-looking Lightning, warts
and all. The air-to-air views are
mostly sublime, but ground-based
shots hold just as much quality.
This is heady stuff, ripe for the
aircraft enthusiast and modeller
alike, and should be sought by any
Cold War jet fan. CC
 Suisoft KitBase 2 Pennine Models at Haworth
Database Designed for Scale Modellers
KitBase is a flexible, easy to use database for
tracking your kits, accessories,
paints and references.
SOME OF OUR REVELL BARGAINS
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01311 SD.KFZ.234
01317 M3 Lee Grant
01318 Matilda
01319 Chi-ha
Series 2
02301 Scammel Tank Transporter
02308 Panzer 4
02311 Sheridan Tank
02315 Pak 40 75mm Anti Tank Gun
& Truck
02316 WW2 DUKW
02320 Sherman Crab
02321 Churchill “Crocodile”
02322 LWB Land Rover & Trailer
02326 Bedford MK. 4 Tonne Truck
02327 M113 U.S. Fire Support Version
02328 Saracen A.P.C. MK. 1/2/3
02340 Higgins lcvp
Series 3
03301 L.C.M. MK.111 and Sherman
03305 RAF Recovery Set
03306 Bedford QLT and Bedford QLD
Trucks
03310 PZKW V1 AUSF.B King Tiger
Series 4
04301 Churchill Bridge Layer
Series 5
05701 D-Day Gun Emplacement
Series 6
06304 WW2 USAAF Bomber Re-Supply Set
Series 1 Aircraft
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01003a Curtiss Tomahawk MK.11B
01004 North American P51D Mustang
01005 Mitsubishi A6M2B Zero
01006 Folland Gnat T.1
01008 Messerschimtt BF109E-4
01039 Bell P-39Q Airacobra
01042 Westland Scout
01054 DHC Chipmunk T.10

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 ON THE SHELF
AIRCRAFT KITS
SEMPER FI RHINOS
USMC F-4B/N VMFA-531 Gray
Ghosts
By: Academy
Item no: 12315 Price: £44.99
Web: www.pocketbond.co.uk
When Academy’s new-tool F-4s
arrived in 2012, they were the first
viable alternatives to Hasegawa’s.
This release is based on Academy’s
F-4B, but one can also model the
'N'…and new decals for both are
supplied. Early and late F-4Bs can be
built, and the relevant under-nose
fairings are provided, along with the
late B's tail. There are also slotted/
un-slotted stabilators, two-position
FROM FRANCE TO THE FAR EAST
Imperial Japanese Army Otsu-1
By: GasPatch Models
Item no: 12-48003 Price: €39.50
Web: www.gaspatchmodels.com
Anyone who’s built the splendid
GasPatch Salmson 2A2 may be
interested to know the company
has re-boxed it as a Japanese
version, representing the licence-
built Otsu-1. The components are
essentially the same but new
markings are supplied, and these
80 View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
1/48
refuelling probe, and F-4N ECM
fairings. The fuselage is a one-piece
moulding, thus no spinal seam needs
sanding. While the AIM-9s and AIM-
7s are good, and the Mk.82s come
with ogival nose caps and fuzes, the
multiple ejection racks are basic.
Two schemes are for the USMC in
Vietnam, but the third is for a USN
aircraft at the time of 1980's hostage
crisis at the US Embassy in Tehran:
• F-4B, 152274/5/VW, VMFA-314
‘Black Knights’, Da Nang, 1966
• F-4B, 153066/3/VW, VMFA-314, Chu
Lai, 1968
• F-4N, 152323/200/NK, VMFA-531
‘Gray Ghosts’, USS Coral Sea, 1980
1/48
are printed beautifully. The kit is
superb, from the stringers on the
inner fuselage halves and copious
interior features, to the photo-
etched brass details, resin machine
gun, Hinomaru masks and laser-
cut wing/fuselage jig. The engine is
peachy, and overall the whole affair
feels like a small Wingnut Wings
kit. No unit information is provided
on the instructions, but there are
serials for five aircraft: 1190, 316,
581, 518 and 261.
ROCKETEER TEST-BED
Saunders-Roe SR-53 Prototype
By: AZ Model Item no: AZ 7578
Price: €16 Web: www.azmodel.cz
Fans of ‘what-if’ and prototype
aircraft will enjoy AZ Model’s
SR.53 (a collaborative product
with Freightdog Models), as it
caters to both genres…a notional
‘in service’ boxing is also planned.
It’s surprisingly refined for a
limited-run kit; there are engraved
panel lines (although those
on the underside may require
re-scribing), and the nosewheel
bay framing is moulded integrally
NON-STANDARD UNIFORMS
Boulton Paul Balliol Civilian and
Foreign Users
By: Special Hobby
Item no: SH72356 Price: €18.80
Web: www.cmkkits.com
New on its release five years ago,
Special Hobby’s Balliol returns with
different colours. One also receives
finely cast resin fuel tanks, wheels,
radiator, cockpit side consoles, seats
etc, and photo-etched brass. One can
portray folded mainplanes courtesy
of resin end plates and separate split
1/72
with the fuselage halves. There’s
a pleasingly detailed cockpit,
which would benefit from an
aftermarket/scratch-built harness,
but the air intakes will need
blanking plates. Options include
raised/lowered undercarriage,
Blue Jay/Firestreak missiles and
test pods on the wingtips (the
latter can be left empty). The decal
sheet is delightful, with stencilling
and markings for both prototypes:
• XD145, Prototype No.1, RAE
Boscombe Down, 1957-60
• XD151, Prototype No.2, RAE
Boscombe Down, 1958
1/72
wing parts (full unfolded wings also
present). The overall styrene detail
is reasonable, but it’s let down a little
by the rough surface texture on the
wing halves. Once this is tackled,
though, the way is clear to add one
of the very attractive T.2 liveries, one
being a civilian machine:
• G-ANSF, factory demonstrator,
Farnborough, 1954
• CA310, 1 FTS, Royal Ceylon AF,
Katunayake, 1958
• CA301, 1 FTS, Royal Ceylon AF,
Katunayake, 1954

CONVAIR'S SIX-SHOOTER
F-106A Delta Dart
By: Trumpeter
Item no: 01682 Price: £30.99
Web: www.pocketbond.co.uk
After it’s quarter-scale F-106s, it’s
no surprise Trumpeter has released
a 1/72 version. Thankfully, the
former’s plus-points have been
retained, and the exterior exhibits
fine engraved panel lines and rivets,
but it still lacks full-length intake
trunking. In contrast, the type’s J75
engine is replicated remarkably
well, complete with inner and outer
liners and nozzles. There’s a full
TIGER, TIGER!
Puma HC.1 230 Sqn
By: Whirlybird Models
Item no: WPX72065 Price: £65
Web: www.whirlybirdmodels.com
For more than 40 years, the
Airfix/Heller 1/72 Puma has
been the only real option, but
now Whirlybird has released a
full resin alternative. With almost
100 well-cast parts (including
four commendably clear
transparencies) and three small
photo-etched (PE) brass frets,
this isn’t a kit for beginners. The
main cabin is jammed with detail,
whether cast integrally or added
1/72
weapons complement of radar- and
infra-red-guided AIM-4 Falcons, plus
a single AIR-2 Genie nuclear rocket
and two fuel tanks (a common sight
on F-106s), and a choice of open/
closed missile bay doors. Three
decal choices are supplied, but note
the first aircraft should be fitted with
the early style canopy and not the
single-piece item supplied:
• 58-0780, 460th FIS, Kingsley Field,
Oregon, June 1972
• 56-0463, 171st FIS, 191st FG,
Michigan ANG, Selfridge AFB, 1977
• 57-0232, Air Defense Weapons
Center, Tyndall AFB
1/72
via PE, but there’s still room for
scratch-building thanks to the
instructions' splendid photos.
Whirlybird has done well to
replicate the myriad lumps, bumps
and warning sensors that adorn
the outside of an RAF Puma…
there are also extras for other
NATO-operated machines. Again,
the supplied photos highlight the
differences and changes through
the type’s service life. The single
scheme is a classic late 1990s
Tiger Meet livery, as worn by a
230 Squadron airframe (ZA938)
at the Royal International Air
Tattoo, Fairford, 1997.
INSPIRED BY POPEYE
Chester Jeep
By: Brengun
Item no: BRS48005
Price: €30.02
Web: www.brengun.cz
Art Chester was a keen
builder-competitor in US
air racing, and Brengun’s
new kit portrays his
fetching little aircraft,
the Jeep…the name
being inspired by the
character ‘Eugene the
Jeep’ in the cartoon
Popeye. This is an all-
resin affair, save for
the vac-form canopy (no spare
provided), and every part is
mastered and cast very well. The
seat is particularly good due to
the convincing integral belts. An
engine with excellent cylinder
detail also features, but sadly it
won’t be seen unless one decides
to perform surgery, to remove the
covering panels. Ribbing detail on
the flying surfaces is delicate, and
GREAT WAR GEM
Armstrong-Whitworth F.K.8 Late
Production (Premium Edition)
By: Copper State Models
Item no: CSM 1031
Price: €65.34
Web: www.copperstatemodels.com
Once US-owned, Copper State is
now in Latvian hands…but there’s
no dip in quality here. If anything,
the products have got even better, if
this F.K.8 is representative. The kit’s
Premium version offers styrene with
sublime detail, including a splendid
engine, but the latter can also be
built from extra resin components
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 81
ON THE SHELF
AIRCRAFT KITS
1/48
there are also beautifully rendered
control column and rudder bar
components. The company’s
decals are splendid, representing
two schemes; one is the overall
gloss white ‘The Jeep’ (1936
National Air Races), with black-
trimmed orange race numbers,
green trim and black codes, while
the other is ‘Chester Special’, in
green and yellow.
1/48
and a real metal exhaust unit. Very
many photo-etched alloy/brass/
copper parts only raise the fidelity
further, and the decals are winning
items too, with perfect printing. The
excellent instructions echo that of
Wingnut Wings’ well-researched
documents, with colour-coded CAD
illustrations, and rigging diagrams.
Markings for four RAF aircraft are
offered:
• C8602, Capt ‘Freddie’ West VC, 8
Sqn, August 10, 1918
• F-6345, Froldmont, December 1918
• C8636, 82 Sqn, summer 1918
• F7421, 2 Sqn, autumn 1917
 ON THE SHELF
AIRCRAFT KITS
GUSTAV RE-RELEASE
Bf 109G-6 late series ProfiPACK
By: Eduard
Item no: 82111 Price: €37.45
Web: www.eduard.com
With this straight re-issue of Eduard’s
corking Bf 109G-6, one can model
the airframe with either the standard
vertical tail, or tall wooden unit, but
all options sport Erla canopies (two
styles supplied, with and without
radio masts). Detail is moulded
integrally on the inner fuselage, but
there’s more to add to the ‘office’,
including PE seatbelts, an instrument
panel and other items (pre-coloured);
FOUR-WINGED SEAGULL
I-153 Chaika
By: ICM Item no: 48095
Price: £14.99 Web: www.icm.com.ua
If its 1/48 I-16 series is an exemplar,
ICM is onto a winner with the I-153
Chaika (seagull). Polikarpov’s
pugnacious biplane has been
rendered faithfully here; exterior
detail is via fine, engraved panel
lines, with the stressed fabric
covering replicated as delicate,
scalloped relief. There are two
main highlights, namely the superb
82 View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
1/48
the fuel line comes as clear part. PE
grilles are provided for the radiators,
along with different D/F loops for the
spine. Under-wing gun pods equip
two options. The choices, all with
Reich Defence fuselage bands, are:
• WNr 160303, 20 + I, Friedrich
Eberle, III./JG 1, Volkel, 1943
• WNr 15729, < – + –, Hermann Graf,
Stab./JG 11, Jever, 1944
• WNr 411960, << + •, Franz Dörr, III./
JG 5, Norway, 1945
• Black 8, Kurt Gabler, 8./JG 300,
Jüterborg-Waldlager, 1944
• WNr 165350, Anton Hafner, 8./JG
51, Tilsit-Ost, 1944
1/48
12-piece engine (complete with
separate induction pipes and
exhausts) and the cockpit, which
has full internal framing and well-
appointed sidewalls. Four early war
schemes are offered:
• Red 26, 70th IAP, Khalhin-Gol,
August 1939
• Red 28, 15th IAP, Lithuania, June
1941
• Red 6, 72nd SAP, Northern Fleet,
Vaenga, 1941
• White 24, Capt KS Soloviyev, 71st
IAP, Baltic Fleet, summer 1942
NEW-TOOL HEAVY LIFT
C-5B Galaxy
By: Roden
Item no: 330 Price: £119.99
Web: www.pocketbond.co.uk
Modellers have been desperate
for a new Galaxy in any scale,
but Roden’s 1/144 offering, while
answering those prayers, comes
at questionable cost. It comprises
15 styrene runners, plus separate
single-piece fuselage halves,
and while some aspects are
praiseworthy (the restrained panel
lines and lack of warping on the
latter), there is plenty of flash,
notably on smaller components.
Pleasing levels of detail in the
TINY TWIN-TUB
Hawker Hunter T.8B/T.8C
By: Mark I Models
Item no: MKM14482 Price: £14.99
Web: www.4pluspublications.com
Mark I has released a four-strong
family of small-scale Hunters, and
AMW received this boxing for review.
It’s the second two-seater from the
firm, but both come by way of an
extra runner added to the single-seat
parts. The new fuselage is shaped
well, and comes with the associated
gun blister, instrument panel (decal
instrumentation), two control
columns and seats. The latter, while
having belts moulded in situ, also
1/144
cockpit and engines are welcome,
and the undercarriage is replicated
in all its complex glory…yet cutting
and drilling guidance is vague and
ill-explained. Just a single overall
FS 36118 Medium Gunship Gray
scheme is supplied, for a Travis Air
Force Base airframe, 86-0024, but
the decals (for the most part) are
unusable. Walkway lines, national
insignia and stencilling are too
pale, and the unit markings are
incorrect (there is no 82nd Air
Mobility Wing (AMW) or 346th
AMW AFRES in the US Air Force);
the aircraft in question is actually
assigned to the 60th AMW/349th
AMW, AFRES.
1/144
have sink marks on the back pads.
Panel line engraving is excellent,
though, and there’s a high degree
of refinement on items such as
the wheels. Even the arrester hook
has not been missed, and one can
choose undercarriage up or down.
The four schemes, with superbly
printed decals, are:
• T.8B, XF991/668/LM, 764 NAS,
RNAS Lossiemouth, 1969-72
• T.8B, XF995, 237 OCU, RAF
Honington, 1980
• T.8C, XF994/873/VL, FRADU,
RNAS Yeovilton, 1987-95
• T.8C, XL580/VL, Flag Officer Flying
Training, RNAS Yeovilton, 1969
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 ON THE SHELF
MILITARY KITS
NOTIONAL LION
Löwe
By: Amusing Hobby
Item no: 35A005 Price: €49.95
Web: www.modellbau-koenig.de
‘Paper Panzers’ (vehicles that never
made it off the drawing board)
are not everyone’s cup of tea.
This rendering of the Löwe (Lion),
though, could be enough to tempt
the sceptics. The moulding, while
not possessing the crispness of
Dragon or Takom is still pleasing,
and the cast texture on the turret
COLD WAR ARTILLERY
M109G
By: Revell
Item no: 03305 Price: £12.99
Web: www.revell.de/en
Revell’s M109 is a busy affair,
with plenty of detail. The pads
on the link-and-length tracks are
well defined to ease painting, and
moulded detail on the engine and
turret decking is delicate, but
will demand careful painting. A
separate cupola and hatch add
refinement, and there are also
excellent stowage baskets with
toolboxes to provide more interest.
Appropriate surface panels have
84 View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
1/35
and mantlet is excellent. Torsion
bars are separate items, and there
are individual-link tracks that come
with a handy construction jig. Photo-
etched brass engine screens and
track covers are provided, as are two
alternative muzzle brakes; one is of
the ‘pepper pot’ variety, although
openings on the latter can be
drilled unless using an aftermarket
replacement. Hatches are separate,
and clear vision blocks feature, as do
red turret numbers, and two styles of
cross, on the decal sheet.
1/72
non-slip texture, but the main gun
comes in halves, so fastidious
seam removal will be vital. There’s
also a beautifully executed MG
3 machine gun and mount. Four
German Bundeswehr vehicles are
represented on the decal sheet;
three wear overall green, while the
fourth sports NATO three-tone
camouflage:
• ‘2D’, 2./Panzerartilleriebatallion
315, 1982
• ‘3B’, 2./Panzerartilleriebatallion
135, 1985
• ‘1C’, Artillerieschule, 1968
• ‘2B’, 2./Panzerartilleriebatallion
35, 1970
PILOT’S NIGHTMARE
Soviet 2K11A TEL w/ 9M8M Missile
Krug-a (SA-4 Ganef)
By: Trumpeter
Item no: 09523 Price: £99.99
Web: www.pocketbond.co.uk
Surely the most menacing of
Soviet anti-aircraft machinery, the
Ganef looks like something from
Gerry Anderson’s Thunderbirds.
Trumpeter’s version, while not
cheap, offers much; each missile
is sizeable and when both are
combined on the Transporter
Erector Launcher, this is a lot of
model. The 20-plus runners are
crammed with parts; there are
SMALL-SCALE ASSAULT
StuG.III Ausf.F
By: Dragon Item no: 7286
Price: £16.50 Web: www.hobbyco.net
Smaller models can help those
with limited display space…but it
doesn’t mean one has to sacrifice
detail. Dragon’s 1/72 kits ooze
refinement, and this StuG is no
exception. While most of the tools
are moulded in situ, they are in
scale, and the track covers’ non-slip
surface is convincing. The lower hull
is moulded well, with enviable detail
1/35
individual-link tracks, and separate
tools with brackets moulded in
situ. Happily, though, while it all
looks complex, actual construction
is relatively simple and only
ventures into the trickier realm
via photo-etched brass details.
The sizeable launcher section
looks superb, being equipped
with separate ladders, and the
front retaining cradle is moulded
splendidly. Besides the missiles’
stencilling, national markings are
supplied for two vehicles (East
German and Czechoslovakian),
while the third option is almost
certainly Soviet.
1/72
around the wheel and return roller
mounts. Dragon’s idea of moulding
the wheels/tracks for each side in
one will divide opinion, but the detail
is good…and it means sagging of the
upper track is already set. A small
decal sheet includes markings for
two German Wehrmacht vehicles
on the Eastern Front in 1942. Red
203 is a plain Dunkelgelb machine
from StuG.Abt.201, while the other
example wears green ‘string’
camouflage over the Dunkelgelb, and
carries the badge of StuG.Abt.191.

WARGAMING DESERT RAT
Cruiser Tank Mk.VI A15 Crusader
By: Rubicon Models
Item no: 280025 Price: US $32
Web: www.rubiconmodels.com
Modellers may not be aware of
Rubicon, but the firm is well known
among wargamers for its 1/56 scale
kits, of which the Crusader is among
recent releases. It comprises 70
crisply moulded parts on three dark
grey styrene runners, sufficient for
a single vehicle, which can be built
as one of six variants (Mk.I, Mk.I
CS, Mk.II, Mk.II CS, Mk.II and Mk.II/III
AA). There are alternative turrets,
BIG SKY SHOOTER
German 128mm FlaK 40
By: Modelcollect
Item no: UA72094
Price: US $21.99
Web: www.modelcollect.com
1/56 (28mm)
side skirts and main armament
to suit each, offering plenty of
choice. Options include an auxiliary
turret for the Mk.I, extra fuel tank,
side skirts on/off, open/closed
commander hatch and scratch-
built lamp guards in place of a
styrene item (a handy bending jig is
supplied). No schemes are specified
(there are examples of desert and
temperate camouflage on the box
rear), but the decal sheet supplies
nine serial numbers (five white and
four black), spare white numerals,
and various divisional, regimental
and headquarters insignia.
1/72
Never one to shy from monster-
sized projects, Modelcollect
has released a kit of Germany’s
largest calibre single-barrel anti-
aircraft gun, the FlaK 40, as a
follow-up to the twin-barrelled
Zwilling version. There are four
styrene runners; two are common
to other FLaK 40 offerings (watch
out for the various ‘what-if’
E-series and sci-fi vehicles)…the
remainder cater for the single gun
mount and cruciform base. All
parts are moulded to the firm’s
exacting standards, with the
side panels and cruciform base
notable for their refinement (the
gun was mounted on the latter
as it was too heavy to transport).
The aforementioned weapon
is traversable in elevation and
azimuth, and is configured with
one round about to be chambered
and another ready to load. Two
schemes are offered (there
are no decals), for basic overall
Dunkelgelb or Panzergrau units.
CRUISE ON WHEELS
Russian 9K728 Iskander-K
By: Modelcollect
Item no: UA72032 Price: US $49.99
Web: www.modelcollect.com
Modelcollect was quick to follow
its Iskander-M (see Reviews,
January 2018) with the -K variant,
which is designed to fire cruise
missiles, rather than ballistic. It
shares most of its 11 runners (and
the photo-etched [PE] brass fret)
with the previous release; just
three are changed, providing two
R-500 launch tubes and a splendid
canister-configured R-500 cruise
NEW GUINEA SCRAPPER
M3 Stuart Light Tank
By: Mirage Hobby
Item no: 726069 Price: €11.43
Web: www.mirage-hobby.com.pl
Mirage Hobby’s wonderful M3 has
been re-boxed as an Australian
vehicle, with a new runner for the
relevant turret cupola, stowage and
hull fittings. The detail is excellent
for this scale, particularly on the
upper hull, running gear and cupola-
mounted .30 cal machine gun. Tracks
are supplied as lengths of black vinyl,
along with a tow cable. There’s a
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 85
ON THE SHELF
MILITARY KITS
1/72
missile, which even boasts open-
lattice PE fins. While the launch
bay is the undoubted focal point (it
can be displayed open/closed, with
raised/lowered canisters), detail
hounds will appreciate the fully
furnished cab, transmission and
suspension…the latter occupies
the initial eight build stages.
As before, the tyres are hollow
vinyl units, attached to separate
styrene hubs, easing painting
greatly. The single scheme depicts
an overall post-war Russian green
machine, assigned to an unknown
Western Military District unit.
1/72
generous helping of nine schemes,
most being 2/6th Australian Tank
Regiment vehicles, in New Guinea, on
December 18, 1942. These include:
• ‘Cpt Kidd’, Cpl HJ ‘Tom’ Barnes,
10th Trp, C Sqn
• 2554 ‘Bacchilles’, Sgt J Lattimore,
5th Trp, B Sqn
• 2033 ‘Cpt Blood’, Lt G Curtiss, 10th
Trp, C Sqn
• ‘Cpt Gore’, Sgt J Church, 10th Trp,
C Sqn
• 2553 ‘Binalong’, Cpl Broughton,
7th Trp, B Sqn, Giropa Pt, January
2, 1943
 ON THE SHELF
MARITIME KITS
IRISH MARINER
Emer-class Offshore Patrol Vessel
By: RB Productions
Item no: RB-K13503 Price: €80
Web: www.radubstore.com
The third in RB’s resin ship range
is the Irish Emer-class offshore
patrol vessel, and it provides parts
and markings for all three ships
(LÉ Emer, LÉ Aoife and LÉ Aisling).
Instructions are downloaded from
the company website (there’s a
separate set for each ship), and
minor differences between the
three (superstructure, equipment,
sensors and railings) are captured
MONSTER MINELAYER
USS Argonaut SM-1
By: Tom’s Modelworks
Item no: 700-08
Price: US $36.50
Web: www.tomsmodelworks.com
Tom’s Modelworks has released
an absolutely corking resin kit
of USS Argonaut which, with its
two sister ships, remains the
largest non-nuclear submarine
class built for the US Navy. It
comprises 15 beautifully cast
components and a small photo-
etched brass fret, the latter
supplying propeller guards
and deck railings. The vessel
is configured as it appeared
86 View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
1/350
faithfully. Completing the
package are Master Model
turned brass capstans, anchor
windlasses and main gun barrel,
and a sizeable photo-etched
metal fret, which supplies
railings, ladders, gun and antenna
mounts, boat and fuel racks and
cranes. Although designed as a
full-hull model, there’s a handy
template for those preferring
a waterline configuration. This
is ship modelling on a small but
very impressive scale, and RB is
to be commended for its choice
of subject.
1/700
prior to its 1942 troop-carrier
conversion, with four bow
torpedo tubes and two stern
mine-launching tubes. It
can be built as either a full-
hull or waterline model, but
regardless of which is adopted,
the highlight is the single-
piece upper hull, with delicate
pierced-steel decking detail and
free-flow perforations along
the outer casing. Markings are
supplied for all three of the V4
sub-class, V4 (USS Argonaut),
V5 (USS Narwhal) and V6
(USS Nautilus), supplying hull
and conning tower pennant
numbers.
STEALTHY AIR DEFENDER
Royal Netherlands Navy De
Zeven Provinciën-class Frigate
By: Dodo Models
Item no: 70011 Price: US $68
Web: www.dodomodels.com
Dodo Models has a well-earned
reputation for high-quality resin
kits, and its 1/700 De Zeven
Provinciën will add to this. The
firm's waterline kit comprises
almost 70 resin components, and
the single-piece hull is a triumph
of mastering and casting, with
sharp undercuts, integral vertical
launch silo covers, hollow funnel
vents and even reinforcing ribs
on the bulwark, all of which begs
SPECIAL PROJECT SUB
USS Richard B Russell SSN-687
By: OKB Grigorov
Item no: 700112 Price: €20
Web: www.okbgrigorov.com
Having released numerous resin
1/700-scale maritime subjects,
OKB Grigorov’s latest, the highly
modified Sturgeon-class attack
submarine USS Richard B Russell,
is a real gem. There are just eight
parts (including a neat one-piece
stand) but all exude quality, from
the main hull (complete with stern
1/700
the question…“how do they do
that?” There’s a tiny amount
of flash to clear from hull
apertures, but given the finesse
of the raised solid bulwarks, this
is a tiny price to pay. Two busy
photo-etched brass frets supply
helicopter rotors and flight deck,
Harpoon missile mounts and
numerous fittings, while there’s
a turned brass barrel for the
Oto Melara 5in (127mm) gun.
Decals are provided for all four
ships of the class (De Zeven
Provinciën, Tromp, De Ruyter
and Evertsen) and there’s a
second Goalkeeper close-in
weapons system for the latter.
1/700
equipment pod and underside
fairing) to the extended conning
tower and delicate photo-etched
brass propeller. Building will be
simple, once the parts have been
removed from their casting blocks,
and the completed model is eye-
catching, thanks to all those lumps
and bumps, regardless of whether
it’s finished in overall black or
with red anti-fouling finish on the
undersides. This vessel is also
available in its earlier configuration
(700108) for €15.
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 ON THE SHELF
FIGURES
MAN IN CHARGE
Commanding Officer (Standing)
By: CMK
Item no: F35324 Price: €12.50
Web: www.cmkkits.com
The last of CMK’s three US
Army 2nd Infantry Division
M1126 Stryker figures (the
others are F35322 and F35323)
depicts a standing squad
leader, with his rifle held at
low port arms. It comprises
just four superbly cast resin
parts, with a single piece body,
torso and arms, to which a
separate head, rucksack and
M203-equipped M4 (with
hands cast integrally) are
then attached. As with the
other two squad members,
the uniform and equipment
are applicable to Afghanistan-
deployed units, such as the
2nd Stryker Brigade Combat
Team in 2010.
CONTACT.
1/35
WAIT OUT
Under Fire. Modern US Infantry
By: Master Box
Item no: MB35193 Price: £11.50
Web: www.mbltd.info
Master Box’s ‘Under Fire’ is
another instant vignette/
diorama figure set, comprising
a four-man Special Operations
team. One soldier returns fire,
while a second treats a wounded
colleague; the final trooper is
reloading. Based on the box
art, uniforms and equipment,
these would be applicable to
either an Iraq or Afghanistan
scenario, and feature a broad
selection of weapons, with M4
carbines (with/without grenade
launcher), M17 (SCAR-H), and
M249. The crisply moulded
parts are produced to Master
Box’s exacting standards, with
each figure comprising between
15 and 17 components (including
radios, Camelbaks, rucksacks
and spare ammunition).
88 View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
1/35
ANCIENT 1/24
ARCHER
Centaur
By: Master Box
Item no: MB24023 Price: £10.99
Web: www.creativemodels.co.uk
One must congratulate Master Box
on its tangents in figure production.
The new Ancient Greek Myths
Series opens with a fetching female
Centaur, posed about to loose
an arrow. The firm has done well
in its combination of equine and
human traits, as the musculature
is well defined, and the sinew detail
convincing. The most pleasing
aspects are the forearm bracers, and
the beautifully moulded decorations
on the horse portion’s shoulders,
and Centaur’s waistband. The quiver
is pleasing, and one can render the
bowstring with elastic thread.
RAPID RESPONSE
1/16
SWAT Team Leader
By: ICM
Item no: 16101 Price: £22.40
Web: www.icm.com.ua
ICM’s latest 1/16 figure is
a departure from previous
releases, as it’s an active-service
Special Weapons and Tactics
(SWAT) team member, armed
with an M4/CAR-15 rifle, and
not a ceremonial guard. That
aside, the quality is arguably
better than previous offerings.
It comprises four styrene
runners, two of which are for
the standard ICM display stand, creases on the pockets, to the
and the mould seams are either engraved ‘SWAT’ lettering on the
non-existent or located on easily body armour. There’s a choice of
sanded areas, such as the knee two helmets, one with fittings for
pads and arms. Parts breakdown camera and night-vision devices,
should ease assembly and and one without (the latter has
painting, and the detail is protective goggles); ear-pieces
excellent, from the stitching and are moulded separately.
CINEMATIC
1/9 JET JOCKEY 1/32
TANKER RAF Pilot (60s)
By: PJ Production
Item no: 321123
Price: €11.50
Web: www.pj-production.be
It could be HK’s Meteor, Revell’s
Hunter, or Trumpeter’s Lightning…
but regardless of one’s 1/32 choice,
PJ’s resin RAF pilot is a worthy
addition if one wants life in the
cockpit. This figure is posed as if the
right hand is on the control column,
and the left is stroking the throttles.
The oxygen mask is cast on the
WWII US Tank Crew, Loader face, but the Mk.1A helmet has the
By: Mitches Military Models visor in the ‘up’ position. Ejection
Item no: TC 03 Price: £20 seat belts are well rendered, as is
Web: www.mitchesmilitary the lifejacket, and flying gloves are
models.co.uk also represented. A splendid and
useful item.
Having already released a bust of
‘Wardaddy’, from the 2014 movie
Fury (see last issue), Mitches also
offers the filmic Sherman crew’s
loader Grady Travis, played by
Jon Bernthal (currently excellent
as The Punisher on Netflix). It’s
a good likeness, with the strong
visage providing a useful canvas
for experienced painters. The hair
is rendered well, as are the folds
on the jacket, and a pleasing
detail point is the just-visible set
of dog tags. There was a faint
seam on the rear of our sample,
but it’s removed easily.
 MODEL MART
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Online shop for kits, decals ands accessories
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 ON THE SHELF
DECAL SHEETS
WARTIME YANKS
USAAF at War Part 3
By: Blackbird Models
Item no: BMD72040 Price: £5
Web: www.blackbirdmodels.co.uk
Blackbird Models has issued its third
World War Two aircraft collection,
covering two fighters (P-51D and
P-40F) and two transport aircraft
(C-79 and C-49) and providing
one of the more unusual USAAF
subjects, an ex-South American
Ju 52/3M with US designation
(C-79). While all are clad in standard
camouflage, the P-40 bears unusual
national insignia, with the standard
BIG CAT HUNTERS
Pz.Kpfw.VI Tiger I Gruppe
Fehrmann
By: H-Models Item no: HMDT 48011
Price: £8.99
Web: www.ghstudio.net
Modellers seeking unusual
schemes for their Tamiya or
90 View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
1/72
marking augmented/replaced by
US ‘stars and stripes’ flags; this
airframe was involved in Operation
Torch, and includes the correct
yellow-ringed star roundel on the
fuselage and upper wings. The types
included are:
• P-40F, 114315 ‘Renee’, 59th FS,
33rd FG, Port Layautey, Morocco,
Nov/Dec 1942
• P-51D, 1056 ‘Dixie Boy’, 529th FS,
311th FG, Sian, China
• Junkers C-79 (Ju 52/3M),
252883, 20th TCS, 6th AF, 1942
• C-49C, 17721, 20th TCS, 6th AF,
1942
1/72
AFV Club quarter-scale Tigers
would do well to consider
H-Models' superb Gruppe
Fehrmann sheet, which supplies
markings for four of the unit’s
six Pz.Kpfw.VIs. There’s an
eclectic mix of camouflage,
from standard late-war three-
tone to what appears to be
a similar pattern, but with
Graugrün RAL 7008 as the
base colour. Throw in partial
or overall Panzer Grey turrets
and it makes for an interesting
collection. While the excellent
illustrations will help modellers
in reproducing the schemes
correctly, there are small
period photographs provided for
three of the machines. This set
is also available in 1/35 and 1/72
scales (HMDT 35011 and 72011
respectively). The options are:
• White F02, Achum, April 1945
• Red F05, Maj Schutze, Achum,
April 1945
• Red 111, Achum, April 1945
• White F13, Untsf Beloff, Achum,
April 1945
GOLD-STRIPED BEAMER
1/24
BMW M3 Diebels Alts Team have sufficient colour density
DTM ‘91 to prevent bleed-through of
By: Decalpool underlying tones. Further
Item no: DP103 information on this product
Price: US $17 is available on the Decalpool
Web: www.decalpool.com website.
Decalpool’s glorious
green-and gold
livery is intended
for Fujimi’s BMW M3
racer and replicates
the Diebel Alt Team’s
brewery-sponsored
cars during the 1991
Deutsche Tourenwagen
Meisterschaft (DTM)
season. Race numbers
for all three vehicles
(#31, 32, 33) are
supplied, and the decal
design should ease
painting greatly. All gold
trim is supplied on the
sheet, so modellers need
to just paint the car
green, with gold-coloured
alloys. All sponsor logos
are provided, as are the
Diebels Alt insignia.
Register is perfect, and
the white markings
PACKAGE HAULER 1/144
UPS 727-100/200 727s, but most will need slight
By: Decales Global modification), and while the
Item no: DG14227 Price: US $12 scheme is simple, it’s also smart
Web: www.joydecals.com and refreshingly different. The
straightness of the lettering on the
Decales Global is forging a UPS badge could be a little better,
reputation for interesting but it’s only obvious on very close
airliner markings, and this is a inspection. All black portions of the
fine example, which allows the livery come as decals, and there
portrayal of a -100 or -200-series are spare numbers and letters
UPS Boeing 727. The joy of this to produce other aircraft in this
livery is that one can simply fill famous courier firm’s fleet. The
the windows for this build (Airfix, main serial offered here is N208UP,
Revell and others make 1/144 which is actually a 727-247/Adv(F).

THE DEVIL AND THE PIN-UP
P-51D Mustang
By: Kits World
Item no: KW148174 Price: £10.20
Web: www.kitsworld.co.uk
Eye-caching nose art is the theme
for this two-scheme release,
which offers European and Pacific
Theatre Mustangs. Both P-51Ds,
they are in standard bare-metal,
but each sport impressive artwork
and the latter has been reproduced
beautifully, especially the subtle
skin tones on the Vargas-inspired
DELTAS AND LIFESAVERS
Mirage IIIB/C/R and Sea King
HU.5
By: Model Art
Item no: 72/067 Price: £9
Web: www.modartdec.com
New releases from Model Art
are infrequent…but always
worth celebrating for their
quality and interest levels. This
generous offering will appeal
to French Air Force fans via
its schemes for the Mirage
IIIB and IIIC, in old-school bare
metal and with high-vis unit
1/48
pin-up decorating the Very Long
Range option. Just basic stencilling
is provided, but national insignia
and prop markings do feature. Both
are perfect for Airfix’s new-tool
P-51D, although of course, they
could just as easily be employed
with kits by Hasegawa, Tamiya, ICM
etc. The liveries are:
• 415611/PZ-H ‘Diablo’, Lt Glen W
Wensch, 486th FS, 352nd FG
• 472671/582 ‘The Enchantress’, Lt
William Saks, 457th FS, 506th FG,
Iwo Jima, June 1945
1/72
markings. There’s also a
camouflage livery for a
reconnaissance Mirage
IIIR, but for helicopter
devotees, the gathering of
‘uniforms’ for Royal Navy
Sea King HU.5s is superb.
All wear Medium Sea Grey
and Signal Red paint, while
some wear special 60 years
of RN search and rescue
badges, and rescue mission
tallies. The instructions
are as comprehensive as
ever, with plenty of colour
information. Of the 17
options, some are:
• HU.5, XV648/18, 771 NAS,
Culdrose, 2013
• HU.5, XV647/20,771 NAS,
Culdrose, 1989
• HU.5, XZ578,771 NAS HMS
Gannet SAR Flt, Prestwick,
2009
• Mirage IIIR, no.340/2-ZH, EC
2/2 ‘Côte d’Or’, Dijon-Longvic,
1985-86
• Mirage IIIC, No.8/2-FB, EC 2/2,
‘Côte d’Or’, Dijon-Longvic,
1969
• Mirage IIIB, No.39/2-FA, EC
2/2, ‘Côte d’Or’, Dijon-Longvic,
1967
• Mirage IIIB, No.204/2-LV, EC
2/2 ‘Côte d’Or’, Dijon-Longvic,
1966-67
ON THE SHELF
DECAL SHEETS
RECCE SPECIAL
1/72
Mirage IVP no.31 BD ’30 ans F.A.S
1964-1994
By: Syhart Item no: 72-096
Price: €9 Web: www.syhartdecal.fr
Here’s an unmissable decal
package for anyone with Heller
Mirage IVs, but if one doesn’t
have the kit already, this is the
perfect excuse to buy one tout
de suite. The scheme represents
the Mirage IVP painted in 1994,
to commemorate 30 years of
France’s Strategic Air Forces.
The aircraft wears two-tone
camouflage but has red/white/
blue trim, ‘1964-1994’ legends
and a huge Force Aériennes
Stratégiques badge on the
underside. In Syhart’s usual
helpful manner, it provides a mask
(not shown here) with which to
paint the red and yellow field for
the underside decoration. stencils
and roundels are also supplied.
WIZARD ROTORCRAFT 1/72
smart Nigerian and Turkmenistan
airframes. Extensive conversion/
update work is necessary to portray
some airframes. Choices include:
• HH-101A Caesar, 15-10, 1st Brigata
Aerea Operazioni Speciali, Italian
AF, Cervia, 2016
• Merlin HC.3A, ZJ994/AC, 27/78
Sqn RAF, Benson, 2010
• CH-101/Mk.518, 8192/92, Japanese
MSDF, JAS Shirase, 2010
• Merlin HM.2, ZH857/70/CU, Royal
Navy, Malta, 2015
• Merlin HC.3, ZJ119/C, Royal Navy,
RNAS Yeovilton, July 10, 2015
• AW101, 0262, Norwegian AF, 2016
• AW101 VVIP, Mk,643, Turkmenistan
Airlines, 2013
AgustaWestland Merlin Operators
By: Xtradecal
Item no: X72279 Price: £10.99
Web: www.hannants.co.uk
Xtradecal was speedy with
alternative schemes when Airfix
released its 1/48 Merlin five years
ago. Now, all those liveries and more
are provided in a new 1/72 package,
printed with Italeri/Revell kits in
mind. One build won’t be enough
due to the choice of 21 liveries.
The Royal Navy’s new ‘Junglie’ is
represented, as are former RAF
birds. Export models feature
strongly too, and standouts are the
three-tone Indonesian airframe, and
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 91
 ON THE SHELF
DECAL SHEETS

NORDIC VIPERS 1/48

HEBREW DREAMLINER
1/144

abroad, as well as a El Al Boeing 787-9

F-16AM Test aircraft – Royal
Norwegian Air Force
By: Vingtor
Item no: 48-132 Price: €12.97
Web: www.vingtor.net
It’s always great to see non-US
schemes for the F-16, and this
package is fascinating, as it covers
Norwegian test aircraft detached
‘home’ jet. A single-
seater wears the
traditional three-tone
low-vis camouflage,
and a special badge on
its starboard vertical
tail (on a separate mini-
sheet, not shown here),
while another is covered
with overall FS 36270
Medium Gray. There’s
also a twin-stick bird in
the same grey, but this
too sports non-standard
markings. There’s
oodles of stencilling
accompanying the main
insignia, and the printing
of all markings is first
rate…as are Vingtor’s
instructions, which have
full colour artwork and
Federal Standard colour quotations.
The schemes are:
• F-16AM, 78-0299, Lockheed Martin,
Fort Worth, 1995 (338 Sqn marking
retained)
• F-16AM, 80-3666, 416 Flight Test
Sqn, Edwards AFB, 2008 (334 Sqn
fin marking)
• F-16BM, 78-0306, LHV Kjeller ‘Leed
the Fleet’ aircraft, 1996
By: IsraDecal
Item no: IAF-105
Price: US $28
Web: www.isradecal.com
IsraDecal’s 787-9 decals
are designed to fit Zvezda’s
excellent 1/144 offering,
and are bang up to date,
providing both Dreamliners
in service with the Israeli
carrier El Al (five more
are on order). Thanks to
thoughtful design, painting
is reduced to a minimum,
being just overall white
with metallic leading edges
to the wings, horizontal
stabilisers, tail and engine
nacelles. The striking blue/
light grey livery is supplied large tail markings (items 20 and
in sections, with three pieces 21) and passenger doors. Most
for each side of the fuselage airframe stencils are supplied
and four for the tail (including on a second sheet, along with
additional pixelated areas that window trim and separate tinted/
overlay the basic colours). There solid glazing. There’s even a
is gloss carrier film, which should nameplate for the kit stand,
reduce the risk of silvering, and with the El Al and Boeing 787-9
this is generally tight to the logos emblazoned on a white
inked elements, apart from the background.

1/72 EAGLE AND MAGYAR PENCILS 1/48

BRIGHTLY MARKED STORMS
Romanian Hawker Hurricane Mk.I
By: RB Productions
Item no: RB-D72022
Price: €9.75
Web: www.radubstore.com
Hats off to RB Productions, for
this sublime sheet of Romanian
Hurricanes, which features
examples sold direct from the UK
and those obtained via Yugoslavia.
The bright schemes are sure to
delight, and would be suitable for
most early Hurricane kits (note
two machines are fabric-winged
Dornier Do 215B-1/B-2/B-4/B-5 Gr.Ob.d.L
sub-types). By: Xtradecal • Do 215B-2, F.7+09, 1/1 Long-range
Colour density Item no: X48181 Price: £7.99 Recce Sqn, Royal Hungarian AF,
and delineation Web: www.hannants.co.uk Eastern Front, 1942
are spot on, and • Do 215B-5, G9+PM, 4./NJG 1, St
the two styles This varied collection of six Trond, Belgium, May 1941
of horse-riding Do 215s is intended for ICM’s • Do 215B-5, R4+AP, 6./NJG 2,
Mickey Mouse splendid 1/48 offerings (or Revell/ Leeuwarden, Netherlands
caricature Hasegawa re-boxings). There are
(there is debate four reconnaissance machines
whether the and two night fighters, clad in
mouse was white standard RLM 70/71/65 and
or yellow – both overall black respectively.
are supplied) are Register and colour definition are
simply splendid. excellent, and the gloss carrier
Note, all cocarde film appears commendably thin.
and King Michael Crosses have Despite quoting four versions in
separate medium blue centres. the title, just three are featured.
This set is also available in 1/48 However, there is ongoing debate
and 1/32 scales. The six schemes over whether early Do 215 recce
all depict Escadrilla 53 Vȃnǎtoare aircraft were designated B-1
airframes in RAF period day- or B-2, which may explain this
fighter, modified Yugoslav or apparent anomaly. Checking
locally applied camouflage: references is recommended. The
• Yellow 1, autumn 1939 choices are:
• Yellow 2, Tecuci, June 1941 • Do 215B-4, G2+BH, 1.(F)/Aufkl.
• Yellow 3, June 1941 Gr.124, Stavanger, April 1940
• Yellow 5, Mamaia, June 1941 • Do 215B-2, G2+MH, 1.(F)/Aufkl.
• Yellow 14, autumn 1941 Gr.124, Königsberg, Germany,
• Yellow 15, spring 1941 April 15, 1942
• Do 215B-2, T5+PL, 3.(F)/Aufkl.

92 View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

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 ON THE SHELF
ACCESSORIES

BANANA BRASS 1/48

NAMED FOR
1/32 COMEDY STORE 1/48
WORKSHOP
1/35

H-21C A SWORD ON WHEELS

By: Eduard Item no: 49821
Price: €22.95 Web: www.eduard.com

Italeri’s H-21
‘Flying Banana’
is a reasonable
kit, but like
many products
of their Hawker Tempest Mk.V Engine Set
time, all can By: CMK Item no: 5110 Para Lightweight Trailer
benefit from Price: €97.50 Web: cmkkits.com (Machinery)
aftermarket By: ResiCAST Item no: 35.1269
help. Eduard’s CMK’s resin Sabre engine for M36 cluster bombs Price: €35.50 Web: resicast.com
details are its own 1/32 Tempest Mk.V By: Eduard Item no: 648325
superb and costs more than the kit itself, Price: €11.25 Web: www.eduard.com ResiCAST has released a
will add much but be in no doubt…it’s the kind delightful (if complex) resin
to the base of advanced addition that will Known as ‘Funny Bombs’ by the F-4, offering of the ‘Trailer, 10cwt,
item. As well transform a model completely. B-57 and A-1 pilots who employed Lightweight, General Service’,
as cockpit With almost 100 parts it’s an them in Vietnam, the M36 was an as used by Royal Electrical and
embellishment, involved affair, but the quality incendiary cluster munition. Eduard’s Mechanical Engineers attached
there are of mastering and casting make resin items (x 4) are splendid; a to airborne units during World
new faces for it joyous. While the main unit refreshing change to the usual War Two. This example portrays
the radios with all its ignition cables is Mk.82 Slick/Snakeye provided by the machinery/workshop variant,
and instruments (via pre-coloured impressive, equally splendid most kits of fast jets from the era. with drill stands, multiple vices,
metal), but plenty of exterior are the radiator with its fine Detail highlights include an accurate a lathe on the rear decking and
elements are included, such as mesh, and the exhausts with crenellated hinge line, M14 tail stowage sections for portable
window surrounds, mesh panels and hollow ends. The rear firewall assemblies and delicate suspension tables. With more than 60 pieces,
antennas, winch bracing, windscreen and bearers are included, but lugs. Photo-etched brass is employed this well-considered kit isn’t
wipers, undercarriage oleo scissors note, minor scratch-building is for the circular endplates, and for beginners, but will make a
and tie-downs, and even the type’s necessary to add finer cabling/ arming vanes mounted on each side. stunning addition to an airborne
prominent rear-view mirror mounted piping, and no engine panels are Decals (not shown here) are also forces diorama, or wider-ranging
on the port cockpit framing. provided. This is a LOT of resin… provided for the stencils and red/ scene in terms of subject.
and jaw-dropping! yellow annular striping.
1/35
LOVELY 1/48
EINDECKER 1/32
LUGGAGE SPLINTER
TROOP 1/48
MADE EASY WEAPON
COMFORT
Henschel Hs 123 Painting Masks
By: GasPatch models
Item no: 48119 Price: €10
Web: www.gaspatchmodels.com

Luftwaffe aircraft with splinter

Old suitcases
By: Plus Model
Item no: 489 Price: €16.40
Web: www.plusmodel.cz
Useful for dioramas and
vignettes, as well as for
enlivening civilian vehicles alone,
Plus Model’s resin suitcases are
a boon. There are seven types,
all being different in size, but
they are accompanied by a large
steamer trunk and nifty tubular
hat box. One can have much fun
adding wear and tear to these
items via careful painting and
weathering, but travel-type
stickers are also emulated via
well-printed waterslide decals.
H-21C cargo interior seats STEEL
By: Eduard
Item no: 49820 Price: €18.95
Web: www.eduard.com
Italeri’s recently re-released H-21C
helicopter will benefit hugely from
this set, which offers two of the
same pre-coloured, photo-etched
metal fret. These hold convincing
red-shaded seat-back webbing parts,
and lap belts for each seat posterior
section. It’s a simple affair, sure, but
will add a wealth of detail and colour.
camouflage look superb, but
the masking involved can be
laborious. Not so with GasPatch
Models’ recent Hs 123A-1/B-1
biplane kits, though, because the
firm has released a dedicated
masking set for these. The self-
adhesive, flexible masks are
pre-cut items and with them, one
can render both A- and B-type
schemes (the same pattern, just
different colours).
Spandau LMG 08
By: Master Item no: AM-32-102
Price: £8.99 Web: master-model.pl
Anyone with 1/32 Fokker Eindecker
kits from Wingnut Wings should
consider this stunning Spandau
machine gun. Master’s usual finesse
is evident, from the beautifully
rendered brass cooling jacket (that’s
ready to fit…no bending/rolling
required) and other details in this
medium, such as optional sights, to
the crisply cast breech unit. A length
of very fine belted ammunition is
included, as is the actual barrel in
exquisite turned brass.

94 View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com


NARVIK 1/350
BATTLER
DKM ‘Z’ Class Destroyers 1936 Type
By: White Ensign Models
Item no: PE 35185 Price: US $32.50
Web: www.whiteensignmodels.com
Modellers with Zvezda’s 1/350 Z-17
Destroyer, which participated at the
Battle of Narvik in 1940 (or Revell’s
Type 1936 re-box) will find this
all-embracing photo-etched brass
update invaluable for improving its
appearance. Almost every aspect
of the kit receives attention, from
the replacement radar antenna,
anti-aircraft guns and motor boat
cradles to the deck mine rail tracks.
Extras include a full complement of
railings (with separate side netting
for the gun decks), cable reels, Marx
floats, inclined/vertical ladders,
anchor chains, watertight doors and
yardarm fittings.
1/72
HOT-BULB
TRACTOR
Lanz Bulldog 30HP
By: Hauler Item no: HLP72018
Price: €21.60 Web: www.hauler.cz
Hauler’s lovely World War Two-
era Lanz Bulldog would be
equally at home in a diorama
or as a standalone model. It
comprises 21 resin parts and
a small photo-etched (PE)
brass fret, with all components
featuring quality detail. The
sculpting/mastering is excellent,
and all the idiosyncrasies of
this unusual ‘hot-bulb’ engine-
powered machine have been
replicated faithfully. The driver’s
position is a busy resin and PE
affair, and there’s even a pin and
chain for the towing linkage.
Decals are supplied for civilian
and Wehrmacht vehicles…the
latter clad in overall Panzer Grey.
GOING DEEP
1/48
Massive Ordnance Penetrator
By: Belcher Bits
Item no: BB-42 Price: US $19.99
Web: www.belcherbits.com
Belcher Bits has released a
stunning 16-piece resin GBU-
57A/B MOP. It’s configured as
the mock-up weapon, but with
minor alterations could also
represent the prototype device.
Care is needed when aligning
the mid-sections, as the holes on
each part must match, otherwise
the wings won’t be straight, and
when removing the tail vanes
from the surrounding resin, as
these replicate the open lattice
structure faithfully. No 1/48 kit
exists of the B-2, so a stand will
have to be scratch-built.
SIX-SHOOTER 1/48
P-51D Mustang
Armament & Gunsights
By: Master
Item no: AM-48-139 Price: £6.20
Web: www.master-model.pl
Intended for Airfix’s new-tool
kit, it comprises 14 turned brass
components (12 for the wing-
mounted guns) and two PE gunsights
(one is a spare). Clear guidance
is provided as to where cuts are
needed on the kit parts, followed
by drilling holes to receive blast
tubes (note there are two types),
into which the machine gun barrel
ends are inserted. The aiming reticle
is complemented with a gunsight
bead, which is added to the forward
fuselage, but just for early P-51Ds.
HOT STUFF
High Temperature Photo-Etch
Soldering Mat
By: Pinnacle
Item no: T906 Price: £5.50
Web: www.model-supplies.org.uk
With photo-etched metal products
becoming ever more prevalent,
some modellers are preferring to
solder these items together, as an
alternative to adhesives. Pinnacle’s
12 x 197 x 197mm soldering mat is big
enough for most projects, yet can
be stowed easily when not in use. It’s
fashioned from a calcium silicate mix,
and will withstand temperatures in
excess of 1,000°C.
1/48
SMALL
AND SMART
GBU-39 w/BRU-61
By: Eduard
Item no: 648294 Price: €11.25
Web: www.eduard.com
Eduard brings munitions bang
up to date with this resin set of
eight GBU-39 Small Diameter
Bombs and two dedicated
quadruple BRU-61 launch
racks. The ten items have well-
rendered detail, with delicate
engraving and fasteners on the
BRU-61s, and the folded wings
on the GBU-39s. Decals provide
a finishing touch, and these
smart bombs will add an extra
dimension to select F-15E, F-16,
Gripen or Tornado builds.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 95
ON THE SHELF
ACCESSORIES
AIR FORCE
1/48
IBEX
Steinbock
By: L’Arsenal
Item no: 32 01 Price: €29.95
Web: www.larsenal.com
Modellers considering a 1/48
French Mirage III build could
create a convincing display
scene with this neat 1960s
‘Steinbock’ weapons handling
trolley. The name obviously
alludes to the strength of this
tool, Steinbock being an Ibex,
or mountain goat. All parts
are in pale cream resin and
are cast well, although there is
very thin flash to remove from
some components. We couldn’t
find any photos of the real unit
on the Internet, and L’Arsenal
doesn’t provide any images
on its instructions (just CAD
drawings to help construction),
so dogged research will be
necessary if one wishes to check
on the device’s employment, for
an accurate portrayal.
EXTENDING 1/48
THE AEROFOIL
Fw 190A-4 landing flaps
By: Eduard
Item no: 48936 Price: €18.75
Web: www.eduard.com
Eduard’s new-tool Fw 190A-4 is
a peachy kit for Luftwaffe fans
(see News last issue), but it can be
improved even further with the
company’s bespoke photo-etched
brass landing flaps set. One must
cut away the kit flap sections, of
course, before indulging in the
PE-folding fun, but there’s nothing
too taxing for anyone experienced
in working with this medium. It’ll
ensure splendid 3D detail on a
flaps-down model.
 ON THE SHELF
ACCESSORIES
‘BERTA’ STUKA 1/48
Ju 87B-1
By: Eduard Item no: 49800
Price: €22.95 Web: www.eduard.com
Airfix’s Stukas are splendid, but
more experienced modellers will
undoubtedly wish to up the ante.
Enter Eduard’s bespoke PE for the
B-1 sub-type, and there’s plenty to
employ. On the plain brass fret, one
receives many structural upgrades,
such as flying surface control horns,
bomb sling lugs and more. The pre-
coloured metal fret carries a wealth
of cockpit goodies, crowned by a
superb two-layer instrument panel.
1/72
LINKED UP
Tracks for Pz.III/IV Type 8
By: OKB Grigorov
Item no: S72319 Price: €7.70
Web: www.okbgrigorov.com
Modellers seeking highly detailed
tracks for their 1/72 Pz.Kpfw.III/
IV tanks should consider OKB
Grigorov’s exquisite resin items.
These are the 400mm-wide type
seen on most late Pz.III/IVs and
each track is supplied in three 3in
(75mm) sections. Note the tracks
must be bent around the idler/
drive wheels; immersion in hot
water prior to fitting will ease this
process. The detail is far superior
to styrene and vinyl alternatives,
and while care will be needed to
separate them from the casting
stubs, minimal preparation will be
needed subsequently.
96 View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
'NAPALM
1/72
NELLIE' AND
FRIENDS
AP-2H Neptune
By: Blackbird Models
Item no: BMA72031 Price: £19.99
Web: www.blackbirdmodels.co.uk
Blackbird was quick to capitalise
on the re-release of Hasegawa’s
Neptune. This conversion,
designed for the P2V-7, allows
the portrayal of the menacing
three-tone-camouflaged AP-2H,
four of which were employed
by the US Navy’s VAH-21 for
nocturnal interdiction along
the Ho Chi Minh Trai, during the
Vietnam War. Surgery on the kit
parts is required, and the set
provides the AN/APQ-92 radar,
FLIR/low-light level TV unit, tail
turret, minigun pods and more.
No decals are supplied, but the
firm Zotz has a 1/72 aftermarket
sheet for these aircraft.
METAL 1/32
CONNECTORS
Loops and Hooks
By: RB Productions
Item no: P32046 Price: €6.51
Web: www.radubstore.com
This is pure genius from Radu
Brinzan; a neat set of very fine
hook and eye pieces (98 of each),
perfect for anchoring the rigging
on biplane models, or to help create
turnbuckles. The etching is excellent,
but good lighting and magnification
is advisable as these photo-etched
metal parts are very small indeed.
IMPERIAL 1/700
UPDATE
IJN Battleship Mikasa Detail Set
By: Tom’s Modelworks
Item no: 790 Price: US $22
Web: www.tomsmodelworks.com
Designed for Hasegawa’s waterline
and full-hull 1/700 Mikasa kits, this
two-fret photo-etched brass detail
set delivers in spades. There are
many options, from replacement
fore and aft bridge decks to intricate
funnel hand and foot rails. Parts
identification is made easy, with
a photo of each
item alongside the
text instructions,
accompanied with
folding guides and
images of
specific areas.
Five styles
of railing are
supplied, each
intended for a
certain part of
the vessel, and
the chain-type
sections have
realistic sag.
ACCURATE
1/48
SKYLIGHT
A-3B Canopy Late Bomber Type
By: Hypersonic Models
Item no: HMR 48020-2
Price: £14.50
Web: www.hypersonicmodels.com
Trumpeter’s A-3D-2 Skywarrior
is impressive, but suffers from
an incorrect canopy. Hypersonic
comes to the rescue with this
resin replacement, which also
offers a choice of open/closed
escape hatch. Instead of the
single styrene (kit) item, one gets
nine resin components (the front
and rear canopy sections are
commendably clear) including a
hatch opening mechanism and
handle, standby compass and
sextant. Fittings for an interim
canopy are also provided, namely
the earlier sextant location on
the starboard aft glazing panel.
HOUSEHOLD
1/35
ITEM
Bucket
By: Karton Models
Item no: KMS/P003 Price: €3.90
Web: www.yenmodels.be
Any armour build can be
enlivened by the addition of a
simple bucket/pail, but Karton
Models’ photo-etched bucket
can be employed in many ways;
decorating a tank, sitting outside
a cottage door…the possibilities
are legion. Two buckets are
supplied in this set, with separate
bottom, handle, and bracket
pieces. One will need a PE rolling
tool to get the right amount of
curve on the main part, but the
brass can also be dented and
abused in general, for a more
worn appearance.
CARRIER-BORNE 1/72
RUSSIAN
Su-33 Flanker-D
By: Eduard Item no: 73580
Price: €18.95 Web: www.eduard.com
Eduard’s photo-etched metal set
for the Zvezda 1/72 maritime
Flanker offers upgrades for inside
and out. Those trademark large
air intake screens are catered for,
with two-layer slat/mesh parts, but
other items include extras for the
arrester hook, rear cockpit decking,
undercarriage bays and legs, canopy
and airbrake; even the rear ends
of the missiles are catered for. The
cockpit isn’t ignored either, via pre-
coloured instrumentation, ejection
seat harnesses, an HUD frame,
mirrors and more.

WHEELY 1/48
GOOD HOUSING
Hawker Hurricane Mk.I
Undercarriage Bay
By: CMK
Item no: 4356 Price: €12.80
Web: www.cmkkits.com
Airfix’s new-tool Hurricane gets
the CMK treatment, with this all-
resin replacement undercarriage
bay and doors, but the kit wing
spars and cockpit floor will need
significant reworking. While the bay
has seven parts, with fine raised
rivets and sidewall cabling, the doors
are a major improvement, being
commendably thin. The downside
is they are also delicate, notably
the actuator cover, so care will be
needed during part removal.
1/35
ENGINEER'S
ARMOURY
Toolset #1 plus Toolbox
By: Lsg Europe
Item no: A35020 Price: €3.50
Web: www.yenmodels.be
This delightful package
represents a superb addition
to many dioramas or vignettes.
Besides the basic toolbox - a
flat, laser-cut wood item, which
comes with a brass rod handle
- one also gets a splendid array
of tools on a thick-ish laser-
cut card fret. The choice is
thoughtful, as there are standard
angled wood saws, keyhole and
tenon saws, spare saw handles,
single- and double-ended open
spanners, ring spanners, set
squares, try squares and even
two pairs of scissors.
PENETRATOR
1/48
PAVEWAY
GBU-24A/B Low Level BGL
By: L’Arsenal
Item no: 48 86 Price: €6.95
Web: www.larsenal.com
This resin bomb set from
L’Arsenal provides sufficient
parts for two BLU-109-warhead
laser-guided bombs, as
configured for French Mirage
2000s and Rafales, and USAF
F-15Es, F-16s and F-111s. Each
comprises nine components,
with separate forward fins,
attachment lugs and hardback;
the main body is in two pieces,
with the rear fins cast integrally
on the tail unit. The fineness
of L'arsenal's casting is most
impressive, but this means the
fins are very delicate. No painting
or assembly instructions are
supplied, but the label illustration
provides basic guidance.
MYTHICAL 1/72
LIFT DEVICES
Flaps for P2V Neptune
By: Plus Model
Item no: AL7019 Price: €18.30
Web: www.plusmodel.cz
The re-release of Hasegawa’s
Neptune maritime patrol aircraft
kit undoubtedly prompted Plus
Model’s new product…which will add
welcome refinement and interest to
very old styrene. Here, one receives
a large photo-etched brass fret
that carries all parts for the flap
inner lining and ribbing, while the
flaps themselves are cast in resin
and exhibit reasonable detail. One
will need to cut away the kit flap
sections of course, and there is
much folding of brass involved, but
the result will be superb if care is
taken. Soft copper wire and small
decals are also included.
HIP OFFICE 1/72
Mil Mi-8MT/Mi-17 Cockpit Interior
By: Neomega
Item no: N/A Price: £12.50
Web: www.neomega-resin.com
Neomega resin sets are usually very
good and this new offering, designed
to fit Zvezda’s Mi-17 Hip kit (#7253),
will ensure a beautifully detailed
cockpit. Besides the floor and rear
bulkhead, there are instrument panel
units, seats and controls (cyclic/
collective/pedals) for both pilots.
Other items include a cabin door
and bulkhead-mounted equipment.
There’s a painting guide, but the
construction diagrams are minute, so
one will need a magnifying glass!
1/72
COVERING
A CLASSIC
Noorduyn Norseman mask set
By: Thunderbird Models
Item no: TBM-007 Price: £2.95
Web: thunderbirdmodels.co.uk
It might be an ancient kit, but
Matchbox’s original Norseman
has since been re-released by
Revell. Thunderbird’s useful
bespoke mask set will be ideal
come airbrushing time, as it
provides pre-cut flexible masks
for the fuselage windows and
windscreen panes, and the
mainwheels. The company
recommends the masks are
removed soon after spraying,
although they can be left in situ
on the model for several months,
apparently.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 97
ON THE SHELF
ACCESSORIES
GLAZING
1/72
PROTECTION
Curtiss SB2C-5 Helldiver Canopy
Airbrush Mask
By: MH Models Item no: X72012
Price: €3 Web: www.mhmodels.cz
MH Models’ range of flexible
masks is ever growing, and
the latest addition is this set
for the recently re-released
Special Hobby Helldiver (actually
Academy tooling, see December
2017 reviews). This handy
package provides canopy and
wheel masks, and all sections are
lettered on the instructions, for
accurate, easy placement before
airbrushing.
PEGASUS 1/72
POWER
Harrier GR.7A Engine Set
By: CMK
Item no: 7363 Price: €15.30
Web: www.cmkkits.com
RAF Harrier servicing dioramas just
got easier, thanks to CMK’s 18-piece
resin conversion. The casting is
good, and the parts enable the upper
fuselage engine covers to be opened
(supplied as four separate items),
displaying the Pegasus Mk.107
engine, its control units and airframe
sub-structures. Surgery is required
on two kit parts, the upper wing and
leading-edge root extension (LERX);
most of the latter will be discarded.
Note, the LERX ‘stubs’ provided are
the 65% version; for airframes with
100% LERX, CMK’s GR.9A set (7371)
is needed.
ARCHIVEES
T R E AS U R
T
his glorious study of
Hawker Hunter F.6
XF449/S exemplifies
the overall cleanness of
these airframes at the time.
‘Sugar’ was built at Baginton
and at the time of this 1955
photograph, the aircraft was
on strength with the RAF’s
19(F) Squadron, then based at
Church Fenton, Yorkshire.
Before the Hunter could carry
drop tanks, the underwing
serials ran in a straight
line…but fitting of the tanks
demanded a re-positioning of
the serials as shown here, with
the letters above the numbers.
Of note are the two bulged
cartridge link collector fairings,
known as ‘Sabrinas’ (after a
well-known glamour model
of the period), under the
forward fuselage.

NEXT
ISSUE
ON SALE:
FEBRUARY 8, 2018*
*UK scheduled on sale date. Please note
that overseas deliveries are likely
to occur after this date.

98 Airfix Model World

 1:72
MCDONNELL DOUGLAS
PHANTOM FG.1™

A06016
MCDONNELL DOUGLAS
PHANTOM FG.1™
• Undercarriage can be posed up or down
• Poseable flaps and slats
• Canopy open or closed
• Wings folded or unfolded
• Optional open nose and radar
• IFR probe stowed or unstowed
• Three different build configurations

MCDONNELL DOUGLAS PHANTOM FG.1™

No.892 Naval Air Squadron, HMS Ark Royal, 1974-1975.

MCDONNELL DOUGLAS PHANTOM FG.1™

No.767 Naval Air Squadron, Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton,
Somerset, England, 1971.

MCDONNELL DOUGLAS PHANTOM FG.1™

Naval Air Support Unit, Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton,
Somerset, England, 1969.

Length 244mm Width 162mm Pieces 162

Airfix.com Start as you mean to finish

and all good retail stockists
Official Product

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