1:72 Mig-23UB in Polish Service N

The real subject

The MiG-23 is a fighter with a variable-sweep wing: according to speed the pilot set the wing to a smaller or a larger angle, so the machine managed both a takeoff from a shorter runway and fast flight. The UB version is the two-seat trainer, with a second cockpit for the instructor behind the pilot. On a model you can tell it at first glance, because the forward part of the fuselage looks different from the single-seat machines. Poland was one of the European operators of the type.

What the sheet contains

The sheet is intended for 1:72 scale and carries the markings of machines in Polish service, that is national insignia, fuselage numbers and further markings taken from the real aircraft. How many variants are on the sheet and which machine each belongs to is given by the enclosed instructions.

Building and painting tips

The base under the decals must be smooth and sealed with gloss varnish, or a matte mark from the backing is left around the print. Cut the element out close to the print, soak it for a few seconds in lukewarm water and let it rest until it will slide off the backing. Transfer it onto a drop of water, align it and blot the water away with the edge of a paper tissue. With a machine that has a movable wing, decide beforehand in which position you will fix the wing, because at the wing-to-fuselage junction the elements can break. A decal softener will settle the decal into the engraved lines; seal the model at the end.

Who it is for

For builders of Cold War jet equipment and for anyone interested in the Polish Air Force. The model, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.