1:72 Su-22UM „Warshaw Pact“

The real subject

Su-22 is the export designation of the Soviet fighter-bomber of the Su-17 family. You recognize the machine by the wing with variable geometry of its outer sections: the inner part of the wing stays fixed and the outer panels sweep back, so the aircraft manages a short takeoff as well as fast flight at low level. The versions with the letter U in the designation are two-seat trainers, with a second station for the instructor. Machines of this family served with a number of Warsaw Pact armies, which the name of the boxing refers to.

What the kit contains

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted, and the parts are of plastic on sprues. The composition of the package, the number of parts and the range of finishing options are given in the instructions enclosed with the set.

Building and painting tips

Cut the parts off the sprue with a sharp blade a little way from the part and sand the remaining sprue nub away. Sand the parting seams on the fuselage and on the canopy down in fine steps and keep checking them against the light. On an aircraft with a swing wing it pays to decide in advance in what position the outer panels will sit and to glue them accordingly; an attempt at a movable solution tends to be fragile on a model in this scale. Glue the canopy glazing only after the interior has been painted and protect it with a mask.

Who it is for

The kit will please collectors of equipment of Eastern origin as well as modelers who assemble aircraft in 1:72 scale into one display case. Paints, glue and tools are not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise.