1:48 Russian missile R-40RD AA-6 Acrid

The R-40RD AA-6 Acrid missile 1:48 — a Plusmodel resin accessory

A resin casting of the Soviet R-40RD guided missile (NATO code AA-6 Acrid) in 1:48 scale from the production of the Czech manufacturer Plusmodel. It is an accessory of aircraft armament, not a model of an aircraft. The R-40RD represents the later, improved form of one of the largest air-to-air missiles in history, a welcome choice for modelers who build modernized Soviet interceptors.

The real subject

The original R-40 came about in the 1960s for the MiG-25 interceptor. Experience in service led to modernization: the letter D in the designation R-40RD marks the improved variant of the radar-guided version, introduced in later years with better homing. Modernized missiles were carried by the later versions of the MiG-25 and were also taken into the armament of the interceptor types then coming into service. Semi-active radar homing means that the target is illuminated by the radar of the carrier aircraft and the missile follows the reflected signal, an effective method of attack in all weather.

Building and painting tips

Wash the resin free of the mold release agent, cut the casting blocks off with a saw and sand the marks down; do not forget protection for your airways. Glue with cyanoacrylate glue and apply primer before painting. Paint the long body of the missile in light gray or white; the pointed dielectric radome of the head tends to be set apart in color, and a fine panel wash will bring the parting lines of the massive body out.

Who the accessory is for

• Modelers of the later versions of the MiG-25 and Soviet interceptor equipment in 1:48
• Builders who want to set modernized armament apart from the early kind
• Makers of dioramas with heavy interceptors being armed

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