1:144 Sukhoj Su-24M "Fencer" in foreign service: Algeria, Iran, Iraq, Lybia, Syria

Su-24M Fencer in foreign service, 1:144 scale (Armory)

A kit of the Soviet tactical bomber Su-24M Fencer in 1:144 scale from the Ukrainian brand Armory, in injection-molded plastic. The edition is aimed at machines in foreign service and the box names Algeria, Iran, Iraq, Libya and Syria as users. The manufacturer has released the same subject in editions for the Soviet Air Force and for the present-day Ukrainian Air Force as well, so this box is the choice precisely because of the less common markings. Check the number of models in the package and the range of markings on the box.

The real subject

The Su-24 was a twin-engine bomber with a variable-geometry wing, designed for low-level penetration and strikes against ground targets. The crew of two sat side by side, which is a conspicuous recognition feature on this type. The Su-24M version received reworked navigation and targeting equipment and broadened the scope for guided munitions. Besides the Soviet Air Force and later the Russian Air Force, the machines also reached further users in the Middle East and in North Africa, so their camouflage and markings differ considerably.

Building and painting tips

Decide on the variable-geometry wing in advance: settle on one sweep setting and glue it solid, because in 1:144 scale a movable joint is needlessly fragile. Go over the mating surfaces of the fuselage halves with a sanding stick so that the seams on the spine do not call for putty. Apply the desert camouflage with an airbrush in thin coats and set the decals with a decal softener on a gloss base.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of the small 1:144 scale
• Anyone interested in hardware of the Middle East and North Africa
• Modelers who want less common markings
• Display collections with many types in a small space

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.