Su-17UM3 as Su-22?

[Bjorn]

Is it possible to build any of the Su-22 two-seater versions from Hobbyboss 1/48 Su-17UM3? Wikipedia states this:

 

Su-17UM3: Revised trainer with the same avionics suite as the Su-17M3. The export version was designated Su-22UM3 with R-29 engine, and Su-22UM3K with the AL-21 engine.

 

So it seems possible - but which of these two engines was used un Su-17UM3?

[Giorgio N]

The Su-17s, as built for the Soviet Union, used the AL-21 engine. The R29 was used on many Su-22 export variants for a number of reasons, before production was unified with the AL-21 only for both Su-17s and 22s

According to Yefim Gordon's book on the type in the Aerofax series, the 22UM3 with the R-29 engine was only built in 9 examples. Prodution later switched to the 22UM3K, with the AL-21 engine.

It's relatively easy to tell an AL21 engined from an aircradft with the R29 as the different engines required different rear fuselages, with different arrangements of the auxiliary intakes.  In any case, the 22UM3 with the R29 engine seems to have been a rare bird.

[exdraken]

R29 Su-22 were  only operated by Hungaria Lybia, Peru, Syria and Iraq

ALL Su-17s ,also twoseaters were Al-21 powered!

[Bjorn]

So this means that it is possible to build a, let's say, Polish Su-22UM3K from the Hobbyboss kit?

[exdraken]

Yes.

Just add correct decals!

If  you want the cockpit to be exact, you will have to compare with some photos... Polish planes might be upgraded already!

Edited October 31, 2017 by exdraken