First introduced in 1959, the MiG-21 is the most produced supersonic aircraft of all time. It has been used by over 50 countries, and some are still in service today. The Mig-21bis is the ultimate development of the delta- winged fighter with updated avionics and a more powerful engine.
The Eduard 1/72 scale MiG-21bis Dual Combo plastic model kit is the latest addition to the company’s family of MiG-21 kits. As a limited-edition dual combo ProfiPack kit, it has all the goodies included. The base kit appears to be the earlier MF version with a new “K” sprue for the bis-specific parts. A total of nearly 500 pieces, not including the pre-colored photo-etched metal (PE), die-cut masks and 10 different markings give nearly endless options! The dark gray plastic parts feature exquisitely fine recessed and raised details. The instruction booklet is clearly illustrated on glossy paper with paint call-out for GSI Creos Mr. Hobby Aqueous and Mr. Color lacquer colors.
The first and perhaps most difficult task is deciding which of the ten marking options to build. With that done, pay close attention throughout assembly as slight differences in construction or colors called out in the instructions are not always obvious.
The pre-colored PE parts for the instrument panel and side consoles are fabulous! You also have the option of using decals. The small cockpit is packed full of molded and add-on detail.
Next, the engine and main landing-gear well have the same outstanding level of molded details. With those complete, the fuselage can be closed up. The fit was good, but I had to really squeeze to get the join around the cockpit closed up, and still had a very small gap on the bottom side that needed filling. The topside spine is a separate piece, so no worries about the seam there.
The ailerons and flaps are separate parts, and though not posable out of the kit, it probably wouldn’t take much effort to change that. Don’t forget to drill the holes if you attach the underwing stores. The drill size called out in the instructions is too small, but makes a good pilot hole. The top of the main wing fit excellently to the fuselage. The lower part of the main wing incorporates a section of the lower fuselage, and the fit there had an ever-so-slight gap and step to the main fuselage. You have to look pretty closely to notice, but it’s present.
The landing gear tires are molded separately from the wheel hubs, a nice touch so no tedious masking is necessary. The landing gear themselves could have used a little more positive location, especially the main gear retracting struts.
With all the details in the cockpit, I chose to build my MiG-21bis with the canopy open, but you have the option to close it, too. Several different canopies are included, so be sure to pick the proper one. You can also choose between an open or closed speed brake.
Finally, there are all the ordnance and drop tanks to sort though. I’m not sure if all the included parts would have been used on the bis version, so check your references as to what is appropriate for the version you’re building. You will certainly have a bunch to add to your spares box.
This isn’t going to be a one or two weekend build, but if you’re looking for an extremely detailed kit of this iconic fighter, look no further than the Eduard 1/72 scale MiG-21bis Dual Combo plastic model kit. Yes, some parts will be little fiddly and others insanely small, but the outcome is worth the effort. I highly recommend it, but only for an experienced modeler.