MiG-21R
The MiG-21R was a reconnaissance version of the basic MiG-21 interceptor built in limited numbers and used by the Soviet Union as well as some foreign countries. External differences included specific reconnaissance pods used under the belly and modified wing tips.
And this model was the subject of the last kit released by Eduard. This kit is released as ProfiPACK edition with stock number 8238 and it is the same top quality kit as the previous versions they have released. Standard features of this product series are protective mask for transparent parts, etched sets (two of them inside) and big decal sheet. As well this version has some external differences; new parts are provided on plastic frets P and R.
There are no special tips in assembly of this kit and what was not mentioned before. The kit is really designed for fast and easy build and all accompanied by excellent details. As usual the starting point is the cockpit interior. There are some variations in cockpit look so direct your attention to this. As well I decided from the very start to build a Cuban sample, I have used cockpit parts specific for this version. This cockpit is very detailed and the etched set makes it really rich. Please note that three types of reconnaissance pods are provided and two of them should be used. Again, the same as with cockpit, not all versions use the same pod so again, take a note which one you choose.
As I stated above, my choice was to build a Cuban machine. The reason is simple- since I have built all versions of MiG-21 released by Eduard, I decide to build another one but with different markings and camouflage. This Cuban airplane featured interesting pattern of blue and olive green on topside and light grey at the bottom. And for the first time ever I decided to use Eduard’s recommendation from instruction. And I find that topside blue was too light, you’ll need to find a more accurate color or make your own mix. The other thing that makes some doubt is why is this machine chosen? As I know this sample machine with number 111 was preserved in museum and it is doubtful that it has its original pattern (as well some images I have indicate that this is possibly painted over (topside color overall differing much from images of operational machine I have seen). Anyway, the kit looks interesting in this camouflage.
It is a top quality kit and has excellent features. Problems I mentioned with camouflage are not critical, you can choose any other pattern from instructions (Soviet, Yugoslav, Czech, and Polish) and change paints on Cuban sample (as well decals are perfect). This kit is high recommended!
Great thanks to Eduard for the free sample of this kit.
Srecko Bradic
