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This resin and photo etch set from Eduard is part of the Brassin series and is available directly from Eduard Model Accessories. This set includes four R-73 / AA-11 Archer missiles and pylons in 1/48 scale. Currently the R-73 is the best Russian short range air-to-air missile. Apart from an exceptional maneverability, this missile is also directly connected to the pilot's helmet, which allows engagement of targets lateral to the aircraft, which cannot be engaged by missiles with a traditional system of targeting and guidance. The R-73A, an earlier variant of this missile, has a 30 km range, while the most recent R-73M can hit targets at a distance of 40 km. The R-73 short-range, close-combat standardized missile was developed in the Vympel Machine Building Design Bureau, and became operational in 1984. The R-73 is included in the weapon complex of MiG-23MLD, MiG-29 and Su-27 fighters and their modifications and also of Mi-24, Mi-28 and Ka-50 helicopters. It also can be employed in flying craft which do not have sophisticated aiming systems. This resin set includes:
There are 2 pages of instruction in the usual line drawing format that Eduard is famous for and which are so easy to follow. You do have the option to display the missiles with the seeker head of the optional basket type of nose. You also have the option of 2 types of tail piece. The front winglets are done in resin and attached separately. The photo etch parts contain very fine small detail parts. These missiles provide very high quality level of detail and realism and will give you a very interesting loadout option for your next 1/48 MiG-29 and Su-27. You can buy this detail set and thousands of other items directly from Eduard Model Accessories. Images in this article are by Eduard Model Accessories. Steve Bamford |
Photos and text © by Steve Bamford