1:32 Matra MICA-IR missiles (4 pcs)

The French MICA IR missile, four pieces for 1:32 scale

Four bodies of the MICA guided missile in the infrared version complete the stores of modern French fighters. The printing captures the slender body, the cruciform control surfaces and the different shape of the forward section by which the infrared version is told from the radar one. The weapon came about at the Matra company, which later passed into the European MBDA group. Four pieces are enough to fill both wingtip and two inner stations.

One missile for two roles

The MICA is unusual in that a single design covers combat at short and at medium range. The seeker decides: the version with an infrared sensor follows the heat signature of a target and suits close maneuvering combat, while the radar variant reaches farther. It is carried by the Rafale and by upgraded Mirage 2000 aircraft, on underwing as well as on wingtip stations. Thanks to its compact dimensions the missile fits even where a larger weapon would not.

Painting and fitting

A light gray tone of the body with a darker ring at the seeker is enough for the right look; overdone highlighting would be distracting on such a smooth missile. Seat the perpendicular surfaces according to the guide rails so that all four pieces are at the same angle, otherwise the arrangement looks restless. Suggest the transparent front of the seeker with a drop of gloss varnish.

Where the set suits

• large models of French fighters
• a full combat arrangement of stores
• a display of armament on a ramp
• a replacement for the softly shaped parts from the box

The contents are the missiles only. Racks beyond the supplied parts, paints and the aircraft are not included.