1:72 Lavochkin LA-5FN Soviet IIWW Fighter

Lavochkin La-5FN in 1:72 scale (Bilek)

A kit of the Soviet single-seat Lavochkin La-5 fighter in the FN version, in 1:72 scale. It is an injection-molded plastic model supplied unassembled and unpainted. The number of parts, the number of decal schemes and the exact contents of the package are given by the instructions supplied with the kit.

The real subject

The La-5 came about by reworking an older design with a liquid-cooled V engine to be powered by an air-cooled radial. The result was a rugged single-engine low-wing monoplane of mixed wood and metal construction, with a short wide fuselage and good performance at low and medium altitudes. The FN version received an engine with direct fuel injection, which improved performance and response during rapid changes of setting. The hallmark of later machines was a cut-down rear fuselage decking with better view to the rear. The aircraft was designed with simple manufacture and field maintenance in mind.

Building and painting tips

The engine section deserves the most attention — the radial engine is partly visible under the cowling, so it pays to paint it before you close the cowling up. Finish the cockpit before joining the fuselage halves. Mask the glazing with tape or with a ready-made masking set. On an aircraft of mixed construction it is worth telling the surfaces apart: metal panels and wooden skin react to wear differently, so do not apply the wash and the chipping uniformly over the whole model. Spray the base shades with an airbrush in thin coats, so that the panel lines stay legible. Apply a gloss clear coat before the decals, and once they are dry flatten the surface again — aircraft of this category generally had a matte finish.

Who the model is for

• Modelers interested in fighter aircraft with a radial engine
• Collectors of Soviet aviation subjects in 1:72 scale
• Builders who want to practice telling metal and wooden surfaces apart
• Anyone interested in a classic subject in a straightforward kit

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