1:72 Tupolev SB-2

Tupolev SB-2 in 1:72 scale - a decal sheet

A set of decals from the British maker Xtradecal for models of the Soviet twin-engine Tupolev SB-2 bomber. It is applied to a finished, painted model, which has to be obtained separately.

The fast bomber of the 1930s

In its day the SB was an exceptionally advanced machine: all-metal construction, smooth wings and a pair of V12 engines gave it a speed that contemporary fighters could match only with difficulty. It proved itself in combat in Spain and in China, but later it grew obsolete quickly against more modern opponents and suffered heavy losses in the Winter War and in the first months of 1941. It was also built under license outside the Soviet Union, and in prewar Czechoslovakia the air arm of the day took it over under a designation of its own.

Step-by-step procedure

• Go over the painted model with gloss varnish and let it dry for a day.
• Cut the individual markings off closely and soak them briefly.
• Once it has slid off the backing, adjust the position with a damp brush.
• Take the excess water off with a paper tissue.
• Once it is perfectly dry, give it a matte top coat.

Who it is for

• Builders of Soviet aircraft between the wars
• Modelers interested in the Spanish Civil War
• Collections of twin-engine bombers

Which machines the sheet carries is given in the enclosed instructions. The model, the paints and the varnishes are not included in the package.