1:48 Su-27UB Ukrainian 2nd Gen Curved Camo Bort “69” Paint Mask set

The real subject

The Su-27UB is the two-seat combat trainer version of the heavy Su-27 fighter. The second cockpit behind the seat of the first pilot changes the outline of the spine, so the finish on this machine runs differently from the single-seat version. The set is tied to the Ukrainian machine with fuselage number 69 and to the newer form of the camouflage with rounded, curved transitions between the fields.

What the set solves

Camouflage with curved transitions is badly suited to masking by hand: the curve has to pass smoothly across the fuselage, the panels and the leading edges and look the same on both sides of the aircraft. The stencils have their shapes cut in advance, so you spray according to them and the result does not drift. The set is meant for a model in 1:48 scale, where the smooth transitions on the large surfaces of the fuselage and the wing are clearly visible and a poor edge is hard to hide.

How to work with the masks

The stencils are stuck onto the dried coat of the previous shade, that is, before spraying the next color. The surface must be clean and degreased, and press the edges of the mask down carefully, above all where they pass across a groove or an edge. Spray the paint in thin coats perpendicular to the surface, otherwise it will creep under the edge. Lift the masks off as soon as the paint has set and pull them at an angle to the rear; they come away from fully cured paint with more difficulty. Choose the order of the shades according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Who it is for

For modelers who want to spray a more demanding finish with a sharp and repeatable edge. The model, paints and clear coat are not included, unless stated otherwise.