ERKA / MiG-21R V ČESKOSLOVENSKU 1/72

The MiG-21R was a reconnaissance variant of the famous Soviet MiG-21 fighter aircraft, modified for tactical reconnaissance. It differed from the basic combat version primarily in the addition of a reconnaissance pod under the fuselage, which carried photographic cameras or other sensors. The aircraft retained sufficient performance to survive in areas where intelligence on the enemy needed to be gathered — speed and manoeuvrability remained its main strengths. In Czechoslovakia, the MiG-21s formed the backbone of the air force for decades, and the reconnaissance variants played a specific operational role within the Warsaw Pact. Following the division of Czechoslovakia in 1993, these aircraft were transferred to the inventories of both the Czech Army and the Slovak Air Force, and served in various configurations until their gradual phasing out.

Eduard’s limited edition ERKA kit in 1:72 scale (cat. no. 2156) is based on the recently released basic MiG-21R kit and expands upon it with content specifically aimed at Czechoslovak, Czech and Slovak operators. Coloured photo-etched parts provide details that plastic mouldings alone cannot faithfully reproduce — typically seat belts, grilles, handrails or fine structural elements of the cockpit and fuselage. Masking templates make it easier to paint transparent parts accurately and to achieve more complex colour gradients. The extensive decal sheet covers a total of 9 livery variants, so modellers can choose the specific aircraft and period that interests them most — from the era of a unified Czechoslovakia through to Czech and Slovak independence.

A unique feature of the pack is a special photo book by Martin Janoušek dedicated to the history of these aircraft in service. It is a valuable reference resource that can be used not only when building the model, but also as a standalone document for those interested in the history of the Czechoslovak Air Force. The pack does not contain the paints or adhesives required for assembly.