1:32 Yakovlev Yak-9T

The real subject

The Yakovlev Yak-9 was a single-engine Soviet fighter of the Second World War, a low-wing monoplane with retractable landing gear and an enclosed cockpit. The Yak-9T version differs from the others in its armament: it carried a 37 mm cannon firing through the axis of the propeller hub. The length of the weapon called for the pilot's position to be moved back, so the appearance of the aircraft in side view changed as well. Against the targets of the day a hit of that caliber had a devastating effect, but the ammunition supply on board was small and firing was done in short bursts.

What the set solves

These are photo-etched parts from thin metal sheet for models in 1:32 scale. In a large scale every detail stands out, and that is exactly where the elements that necessarily come out of plastic thicker than they really were come in useful.

• the material is metal sheet, not plastic
• the range of parts is given in the instructions supplied by the manufacturer
• the set is built into a kit obtained separately

Building and painting tips

Separate the parts with a sharp blade resting on a hard surface, and level the remains of the tab with fine sandpaper. Make the bends along the scored lines in a single movement; bending repeatedly tires the metal and the part will crack. Glue with cyanoacrylate glue, as ordinary cement for polystyrene will not hold here. Hold the small parts with fine-jawed tweezers and work over a tray with a raised edge. Degrease the surfaces before painting, as paint does not hold on greasy metal.

Terms of supply

The aircraft kit, paints, glue and decals are not included, unless stated otherwise.