1:144 Chinese GX-6

1:144 Chinese GX-6, a Hobby Boss kit

An injection-molded plastic kit in 1:144 scale from the manufacturer Hobby Boss. The subject is the Chinese aircraft designated GX-6, a machine from the series of special-mission versions derived from a large multi-engine turboprop transport aircraft.

The real subject

The GX designation is used for a series of Chinese special-mission aircraft built on a common transport platform. The basis is a high-wing machine with a large cargo fuselage, four turboprop engines and long endurance, which suits long patrol and surveillance flights. The individual versions differ above all in their external equipment, that is the shape of the nose, the antenna fairings and the add-ons on the fuselage, and those details are exactly what decide how the model looks. That is why with this subject it pays off to keep to the instructions and not to mix in parts from other versions.

Building and painting tips

In 1:144 scale every bit of surplus filler shows, so glue by capillary action and sand the joints back through several grades of fineness. Build and paint the engine nacelles and the propellers separately from the wing. Mask the cockpit glazing precisely, ideally with cut tape. On the large uniform areas of the fuselage a light uneven shading of the panels looks good and breaks up a flat surface. Glue the antennas and the small add-ons on only once the varnish is down, so that they do not break off while the model is handled.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of modern Chinese aircraft
• Modelers who build large aircraft in a small scale
• Anyone interested in special-mission and reconnaissance versions of transport machines
• Modelers looking for a project that does not take up much room in a display case

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.