Jump to content

IAI Kfir C2/C7 - 1:72 AvantGarde Model Kits


Julien

Recommended Posts

IAI Kfir C2/C7
1:72 AvantGarde Model Kits


k01.jpg

 

The Kfir (lion cub) is an Israeli development based on the Mirage 5, and can trace it roots back to the Mirage IIIC adapted for Israeli use successfully as a Mach 2 all-weather interceptor with success, but they felt it lacked the loiter time that would be needed if a ground-attack role was to be added its task list. As a result of an arms embargo, Israel built the Nesher, which was then improved further and was suitably different to be renamed as the Kfir. It entered service in 1975, and was almost immediately superseded in the air superiority role when the first F-15s arrived from America.

The C2 variant added more swept canards, dog-tooth leading edges to the wings and strakes under the nose, while the C7 had more hard-points added under the air intakes, a new engine with more thrust, in-flight refuelling probe, plus many upgrades to the avionics, which includes HOTAS capabilities.

It continued in service into the late 90s, after which it was replaced by more modern aircraft. The aircraft has been sold to Ecuador, Columbia and Sri Lanka, though all have had to be approved by the US as it uses a licence built J79 engine.  During the late 1980s the US Marine Corps & US Navy leased 25 C1 version for adversary training designating them the F-21 Lion.

The Kit
This is an eagerly awaited new kit from AMK. On opening the box it does not disappoint. The plastic is crisp with fine recessed panel lines. All weapons get there own sprue and there are a generous five decal options covering Israeli, Civilian, and foreign military users. Before construction starts the modeller needs to decide if they are doing a C2 or C7. Construction starts naturally enough with the cockpit, the cockpit tub is built up from the main tub, read bulkhead, instrument panel (instruments provided as decal) and the panel coaming. The front gear bay is then built up, this is un the underside of the cockpit. Once this is built up it can be installed into the main fuselage. An engine mounting part is then installed and the main fuselage can be closed up. Note before doing so the two central american versions require some slots to be opened up in the tail.

 

k02.jpg

 

Attention now moves to the main wing. Holes need to be opened up in the lower one part wing to accommodate the weapons pylons etc. These are version specific so ensure you open the right ones. The main undercarriage bay is now built up and added into the lower wing. The upper wings can then be added (left & right) and the whole wing assembly added to the main fuselage. The intakes can then be added to both sides of the fuselage along with the canards which mount to them.

 

k03.jpg

 

We then move on to the undercarriage. The main wheels are built up from a two part tyre with a central hub. They are added to their legs and retraction struts added along with the doors. The font leg is then also built up. The main leg and strut are one part with the wheel and a few other bits being added. this can then be installed along with its doors. A panel behind the nose is then added, here again there are two choices for both models.  The nose cone is then added, here again there are different lumps and bumps depending on the variant.

 

k04.jpg

 

Moving to the rear, antenna are added to the fin and if making either Central American version then additional parts are added. The engine is a five part affair which is then made up and installed, along with a ventral fairing at the rear. We then move swiftly back to the cockpit and build up & install the ejection seat. Two different versions are supplied for the two different variants.  Once installed the canopies can be fitted and the nose probe.

 

k05.jpg

 

k06.jpg

 

The last thing to do is install the weapons load and pylons. Python-3 missiles, MK.82 bombs, GBU-12s, Griffin LGBs are all supplied along with a centre line tank, and two wing fuel tanks. Pylons and sway braces are provided as needed.

 

k07.jpg



Markings
There are there are a generous five options. All decals appear in register, colour dense, and with a minimum of carrier film. The five options supplied are;

 

  1. C2 #874, 101 Tajeset Israeli AF (Two tone grey)
  2. C7 #543 "Zohar" The Arava Guardians Sqn, Israeli AF (Green/Brown/Sand)
  3. C2 N401AX, Airborne Tactical Advantage Company (ATAC), USA
  4. C3 905, 2113 Sqn Ecuadorian AF
  5. C7 111 Sqn Colombian AF

 

k08.jpg

 

k09.jpg


Conclusion
An excellent new tool Kfir from AMK.  Highly recommended.



Available from all good model shops online and in the high street.

 

Review sample courtesy of
logo.gif

  • Like 8
Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 3 weeks later...
  • 1 month later...
  • 1 month later...
  • 3 months later...

Well I just started mine today

 

Wonderful kit really good fit almost no glue needed, now it's the time to do a whole bunch of Kfirs out of my stash, lots of weapons very nice kit to help those that enjoy kit bashing

 

Best modeling 

 

Armando

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...