1:48 ROCAF F-CK-1C

Freedom Model Kits 1:48 ROCAF F-CK-1C — plastic kit

An injection-molded plastic kit of the single-seat F-CK-1C fighter in service with the Republic of China Air Force, in 1:48 scale from the Taiwanese brand Freedom Model Kits. The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted; the molds are modern and are supplemented by photo-etched parts and a decal sheet. Freedom has long specialized in home-built equipment, so this is one of the few ways to build this type in this scale.

The real subject

The F-CK-1 Ching-kuo, known by the abbreviation IDF for Indigenous Defense Fighter, was created in Taiwan at a time when buying foreign fighters was politically difficult for the island. The result is a light supersonic twin-engined machine whose aerodynamics carry clear traces of the American school. The version designated C represents the modernized form with improved avionics, extended options for carrying armament and changes to the airframe. The aircraft still forms a significant part of the fighter strength of the Republic of China Air Force.

Building and painting tips

Proceed in the classic way: first the cockpit and the nose gear bay, then closing the fuselage. Finish and paint the seat and the instrument panel before you close the fuselage. The model has highly glossy gray camouflage, so it pays to sand the surface carefully and to spray a primer — every scratch will show under the gloss. Spray a gloss clear coat before the decals and seal with a matte one as needed once they are on. Fit the external stores and missiles at the very end so that they do not fall off during handling.

Who the model is for

• Modelers of modern jet fighters
• Collectors of less common Asian aviation subjects
• Builders with basic experience of multi-part cockpits and photo-etched parts
• Anyone who wants a machine on the shelf that the neighbor does not have

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