1:48 Yakovlev Yak-9D

The real subject

The Yakovlev Yak-9 was among the most numerous Soviet fighters of the Second World War. It is a single-engined low-wing monoplane with an enclosed cockpit and retractable landing gear, built in large series and gradually revised into a number of sub-versions. The letter D in the Yak-9D designation points to the pattern with a larger fuel load, which extended the aircraft's range. Outwardly it differs little from the basic pattern; the main difference is inside the wing.

What the set solves

This is a set of photo-etched parts from thin metal sheet made for models in 1:48. Photo-etching carries the fine rendering that a plastic part manages only with difficulty in this scale, and in thickness it comes close to real sheet metal and wire items. Which parts of the aircraft the set covers and exactly where the individual parts belong is set out in the instructions supplied by the manufacturer.

Building and painting tips

The photo-etched parts are small and easily lost, so separate them from the fret only just before you fit them. A sharp blade braced against a hard surface serves best; scissors will bend the edge of a part. Sand the remaining tab down with fine sandpaper after separation. Make the bends along the marked score lines, press the part against a straight edge and fold it in one movement. Ordinary modeling cement for polystyrene will not join metal, so use cyanoacrylate glue applied in a small amount on the tip of a toothpick. Degrease the surfaces before painting, as paint does not hold on greasy metal.

Terms of supply

This is an add-on set. The aircraft kit, the paints, the glue and the decals are not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise.