R-73/AA-11 Archer Guided Missile - 1:48 Eduard Brassin (648071)

[Mike]

R-73/AA-11 Archer Guided Missile

1:48 Eduard Brassin (648071)

The Russian Vympel R-73 is the latest generation of short-range air-to-air (A2A) missile, which has a reputation for achieving a high kill-ratio in a dogfight, due to its ability to "see" targets well away from its line of flight. The latest variant, the M improves the off-axis targeting and adds some addtional infra-red capability as well as a significant software upgrade, making it a formidable opponent.

This set from Eduard arrives in their larger clamshell box, and contains sufficient parts build four of the missiles including the pylon adapters for the Mig-29 and Su-27. Inside the box are the four missile bodies, with the large rear fins moulded in, to which you must add the front steering vanes and either a clear seeker head, or the protective cover they wear when on the ground. At the rear either a cover, or a detailed representation of the simple vectored thrust exhaust are glued, hiding the blank rear of the missile. A number of PE parts are added to the front section of the missiles, resulting in quite a busy looking missile. The launch rails are common between both the Mig and the Sukhoi, but have different spacer blocks installed depending on which aircraft they are to be used on. Once complete and painted, the rail and the missile can be mated during the final phase of building of the host kit.

Conclusion

The detail on these missiles is excellent, far superior to any kit renditions, and the inclusion of a clear seeker head and the two covers will add some additional realism to your finished model. The detail also extends to the launch rails and adapter blocks, resulting in some very realistic looking ordnance. All that we could wish for in addition would be some stencil decals to assist with the finishing of the missiles and rails.

Recommended.

Review sample courtesy of