The Little World

I’ll explain that later. In the meantime I need to start work on the ICM model of the Polikarpov U-2.

This is not the U-2 that was shot down with Francis Gary Powers in it. Very similar but a different engine…

In any case, the ICM kit was quite inexpensive in a hobby shop where that can be a rarity. I ignored it until I realised I needed it – and went as fast as the opening time would permit to secure it and the Sukhoi Su-2.

The basic plane is a basic plane. Referred to as a utility type, it appears that it has been used as a trainer, liaison aircraft, light night bomber, and air ambulance. I would not normally build such an odd plane, but the opportunity is all there right out of the box and it fits the scenario I am creating. The only daunting prospect is the fact that it is a four-strut biplane. I have experienced eastern European biplanes before and they are a trial.

The hook, of course, is the fact that ICM kits are now very well-fitting products. The Sukhoi Su-2 was a doddle to put together and this may be the case with the Poli.

Note the simple scheme and sparse decals – always an attractive option for me. John Evans gloried in complex tail schemes for his jet models and carried them off superbly, but I am not John. And, to tell the truth, I am off-put by some of the flamboyant airplane art that has been kitted. It doesn’t all have to be Olive Drab and Neutral Grey, but I do avoid the circus decorations if possible.