1:48 Missiles R-60 & stencils (2 pcs.)

R-60 missiles with technical lettering 1:48, a set of two

An accessory set from L Decals Studio: a pair of R-60 air-to-air missiles in 1:48 scale supplemented by a sheet of small technical lettering. It is not a model of an aircraft or a kit but underwing ordnance with which you replace or supplement the external stores supplied in the box with the basic kit. A more accurate shape and sharper detail than the coarser parts from the mold are the main reason such sets are bought.

The real subject

The R-60, under the NATO reporting name AA-8 Aphid, is a Soviet lightweight short-range air-to-air missile with infrared guidance, introduced in the 1970s. It was among the lightest weapons of its category, which made it possible to carry it even on smaller racks and on machines that until then had carried only unguided armament. It was intended for close-in maneuvering combat and became the typical armament of the MiG and Sukhoi series of aircraft and of some attack helicopters; it spread to a number of further countries.

Building and painting tips

First wash the castings in lukewarm soapy water so that mold release residue does not prevent the paint from adhering. Cut the casting stubs off with a modeling saw or a photo-etched saw rather than with cutters, so that the thin shape of the fins does not snap. Glue with cyanoacrylate glue; cement for plastic may not work on these parts. Always apply a gloss clear coat before the lettering: the lettering is small and would silver on a matte surface. A decal softener and a soft brush help.

Who the set is for

• builders of Soviet and Russian fighters in 1:48 scale
• modelers for whom the coarser stores from the box are not enough
• dioramas and aircraft displayed in a combat configuration
• more advanced modelers working with cyanoacrylate glue

The package holds two missiles and a sheet of lettering. The model, paints and glue are not included in the package.