1:32 Ansaldo SVA-5

Ansaldo SVA-5 1:32, a resin kit from Lukgraph

A model of the Italian single-seat biplane of the First World War from the Polish manufacturer Lukgraph. It is not injection-molded plastic: it is a resin (3D-printed) kit intended for experienced modelers. The large 1:32 format brings out the detail of the castings and faithfully captures the characteristic slender fuselage and the typical arrangement of the interplane struts into a W shape, a Warren truss.

The real subject

The Ansaldo SVA-5 was a high-performing Italian reconnaissance and light bombing biplane, exceptionally fast for its time. It was powered by an inline SPA engine of around 200 hp and its fuselage was aerodynamic, of wooden construction with a plywood skin. The type became famous for long-distance flights, the best known being the propaganda flight over Vienna in 1918. It was built in Italian and export markings and remained in service after the war as well.

Building and painting tips

First wash the mold release agent off the resin parts, cut off the casting blocks and bond them with super glue (cyanoacrylate); use respiratory protection when sanding. A biplane calls for rigging between the lifting surfaces, so have rigging material and fine drill bits ready. The surface combines the varnished wood of the fuselage with the fabric covering of the wings; woody shades, fine washes and picking out the texture all suit it. An airbrush and a good primer will lift the build to collector level.

Who the model is for

• Experienced modelers used to resin and to rigging
• Collectors of First World War aircraft and of Italian aviation
• Anyone interested in the large 1:32 format with a maximum of detail
• Modelers looking for a less usual subject with historical interest

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted, as a resin kit. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.