This thread starts early in the construction phase. This build has been inspired by a post/discussion from fellow user Jesse220 in the "Idea bank" section about an updated Su-17/22. That was... inspiring, as well as the fact that some time ago I stumbled across THIS nicely photoshopped Su-17U in foreign service...
(https://www.whatifmodellers.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fpi3qm1h.jpg&hash=043d1796ce98df43bdaeb0aea92782cd4026c706)
Basic idea: close the nose intake, add a radar for N/AW duties, and move the intakes somewhere else.
Another teaser to tackle this build is tha fact that I never, in 35 years of model building, had a Su-7 or Su-17 on the bench.
More about the original discussion here: http://www.whatifmodelers.com/index.php/topic,39478.0.html
My build has already become concrete:
- Basic kit is the Smer Su-17M4
- Nose radar cone from a F-15
- Air intakes with splitter plates from a PM Model Su-15
- Probably new/longer exhaust from a F-16
Idea is to make it a missing link between the late Su-17 versions and the Su-24 tactical bomber, while the Su-27 was already on the bench but primarily as a heavy fighter. Aircraft will be in Soviet Navy use, time frame is the early 90ies; armament will include a pair of Kh-31A anti-shipping missiles (from the ICM air-to-ground weapons kit), drop tanks and a pair of R-60 AAMs.
Livery will be based on typical Su-24 look: upper sides in light grey, lower surfaces and leading edges in white (will use a very pale grey). Very simple, but that's part of 'selling' the thing... ;)
First pics from the bench:
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5603/14929988113_e785da5188_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oKj6ja)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/oKj6ja) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3931/14929987443_4b0eae5117_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oKj67B)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/oKj67B) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
That's a BIG aeroplane! :o
Oooooh......looking forward to this......... :thumbsup:
Oh yeah. The new intakes look awesome ! Love to watch your work...thanks !
:cheers:
Great! :thumbsup:
Quote from: PR19_Kit on October 16, 2014, 09:52:04 AM
That's a BIG aeroplane! :o
It is. All the Su-7/9 family aircraft are HUGE beasts, only a F-105 is bigger... Progress is good - only critical issue so far is the sloped nose of the late Su-17 versions. In the profiles it looks more streamlined than the early versions's air intake (which has a rather uniform diameter), but in real life/on the kit this turns out to be VERY wide around the cockpit. The radome has already been fitted, and it looks somewhat weird - also due to the slightly drooped nose of the late Fitter versions! :-\ That will certainly take some more brains or even body sculpting - with the intakes inplace it looks less strange, though, but I am uncertain about the overall result/impression. :party:
Can't wait to see the finished article.
More progress: major sculpting around nose and tail - you get am impression how FAT the nose is... :party:
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3932/15557901552_5407ff9e22_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pGNj6W)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pGNj6W) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3939/15371054497_ce2d8eb291_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pqhEYZ)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pqhEYZ) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
...and the Kh-31A missiles - painted by real life pics, the blue fairings for the ram jet intakes are authentic!
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3940/15370440029_ac19a790e4_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pqewjH)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pqewjH) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
:thumbsup:
Thanks for stepping up to the plate, this needed to be built!
The big nose makes it look like a Flying Leopard !
The big missiles are loooking good. Besides, what's wrong with a missile looking flashy...that's pretty much what it's designed to be !
:thumbsup:
The thing looks weird and familiar. It also reminds a lot of a single-seat F-4C/D, while the boxy air intakes look strongly like a Su-15 (where they come from). The Flying Leopard also came to my mind - overall, the thing really has a Chinese look to it. Somehow it also reminds me of the Q/A-5 ground attack derivate from the license-built MiG-19 - just a LOT bigger!
There were even plans and prototypes for naval attack versions with a radar fitted in a wacky nose section...
(https://www.whatifmodellers.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hoxity.de%2Fpapercraft%2Fimg%2Fa-5%2Fq5_history6.jpg&hash=ab2d344878a5eb4832e5d95a3526d1da31076b89)
"My" Su-18 could be the late answer to that!
Anyway, more progress with the nose:
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5607/15376544390_f9c1a266e3_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pqLNWj)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pqLNWj) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
Parts of the flanks have also been treated where the air intakes will go. So far, the conversion looks very straightforward!
Another issue is/are the landing gear wells of the Smer kit: they are empty, at best. I have pics of the real aircraft at hand, but I won't scratch anything. Instead I use a transplant from a cookie box blister(!) to fill the void with some structure. With some grey paint and a wash, this should suffice. :rolleyes:
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5601/15562185765_182a1aaac9_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pHbgDF)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pHbgDF) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
More to come soon, stay tuned! :mellow:
The cookie box blister is a neat idea :thumbsup:
Behold... the air intakes in place!
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3932/15563584945_b937597b35_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pHirzt)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pHirzt) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5607/14942831494_6bf870e2db_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oLrVcL)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/oLrVcL) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
The wings and intake ducts have to be sculpted/scratched/modified from this basis.
Going to take a LOT of blending on those big intakes.
But its going to look great!
I love this!!!!
The Su-17/22 has to be one of my favourites, have a 1/48 Su-17M3 plus a 22M4 waiting ......for time, plus the F-105 Thud! You just gotta love heavy metal!!!!
The concept is great, am really looking forward to seeing it finished!
Quote from: rickshaw on October 18, 2014, 09:00:29 PM
Going to take a LOT of blending on those big intakes.
You asked for it... ;)
But first: the wings went into place (note the cookie box blister landing gear wells, and I guess now you understand what I mean concerning the BIG nose of this beast!):
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3931/15570538755_542c5e5dd2_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pHV5GK)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pHV5GK) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3927/15383905629_c4c59d051a_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/prqxbe)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/prqxbe) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
The air ducts were my biggest concern - instead of sculpting them 100% from putty I found a neat donation part that fits prefectly: a halved underwing radiator bath from an Artmodel Bv 155! Still major putty work necessary, but this arrangement makes things much easier (and symmetrical!).
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3933/14949792634_5b46751f66_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oM4Avq)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/oM4Avq) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3935/15384521157_eda9749e33_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/prtG9M)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/prtG9M) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
Quote from: Dizzyfugu on October 19, 2014, 12:24:00 AM
The air ducts were my biggest concern - instead of sculpting them 100% from putty I found a neat donation part that fits prefectly: a halved underwing radiator bath from an Artmodel Bv 155!
Magic stuff! :thumbsup:
Does anyone actually build a Bv155 from a Bv155 kit or are they all used as donors for Whiffed models? ;D
That's going to look great! :thumbsup:
Thanks a lot for the attention and feedback - more news from the workbench.
Rough sculpting with 2C putty:
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3940/15574266285_bc19f68d1a_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pJfbLv)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pJfbLv) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
Then the tedious fine finish work starts with NC putty:
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5612/15388640550_4f52553ddc_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/prQNGN)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/prQNGN) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
...and after three turns it looks like this (stabilizer loosely in place, for the overall impression):
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3953/15571608361_abcffd53c4_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pJ1yEe)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pJ1yEe) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5597/15388272357_03e3a102bd_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/prNVfD)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/prNVfD) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
Muahahahah! :wacko:
Yes, that is wiiiiiiide at the front! :o
Good Putty-Fu there. :thumbsup:
The new intakes have been beholden ! I liked ! Love the look of this one. But angered at how easy you make it look :thumbsup:
That beast looks totally believable!
It's hard to believe you could make an Su-17/22 look any meaner but you have!!! Awesome! :thumbsup:
Thank you. The Su-18 looks really "massive" with its new nose radome. I will also modify the nose landing gear - moving it forward, so that the new strut with twin wheels will retract backwards. Now the longer/bigger exhaust pays out, too, as it is a good counterbalance to the longer nose section. Painting already started (pics are lagging beheind, as usual in WiPs), and the Su-24 makes it look even more "serious". You really look twice, because the thing features so many typical details of the Su-17, -15 and -24, all welded into one.
Stay tuned... ;D
A beauty... ;D
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5603/15398698010_65b5773cb9_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/psJmrh)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/psJmrh) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5615/15585153622_4d495c45ee_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pKcZcd)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pKcZcd) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
Holy funky chicken! That looks more Chi-Com than Russian, in my humble opinion, Master Dizzy.
Quote from: nighthunter on October 20, 2014, 09:29:12 AM
Holy funky chicken! That looks more Chi-Com than Russian, in my humble opinion, Master Dizzy.
Yup. ;D Some serious Chinese flavor... sweet-sour, maybe?
Painting makes serious progress, and with grey and white added the Su-18 looks better and better. Yesterday evening I added a pale grey radome, and since THEN the thing even convinces me... :party:
Catching up with real time:
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3948/15590614581_fe14d94cce_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pKFYxF)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pKFYxF) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
Lower side is "painted" with acrylic car paint from the rattle can - actually a VW tone called "Grauweiß", a dull white:
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3932/15407278737_1a89eb1d22_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ptukbR)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/ptukbR) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
Upper sides are mabe by hand/brush - basic tone is Humbrol 167, RAF Barley Grey:
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5601/15593274255_77119796a3_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pKVBb8)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pKVBb8) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
Small details like the blank aluminum saddle tank add to the overall impression (hope so...):
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5612/15407660320_679060cc4f_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ptwhBS)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/ptwhBS) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
With the radome painted this looks like an aircraft - even like a baby Tu-22M!? :wacko:
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5597/15407659640_ba33c05586_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ptwhq9)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/ptwhq9) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
BIG progress there Thomas! It's looking very good indeed. :thumbsup:
I didn't realise that the fuselage tapers out all the way from the exhaust forward, so much so that the maximum width is in FRONT of the cockpit! :o
Looking Fantastic, Thomas!
Nice....that's looking so good ! Love this one.
:cheers:
Quote from: PR19_Kit on October 21, 2014, 10:57:47 AM
I didn't realise that the fuselage tapers out all the way from the exhaust forward, so much so that the maximum width is in FRONT of the cockpit! :o
Remember my concerns about this thing being rather nose-heavy? The Su-17's fuselage is pretty area-ruled, and the late versions (M3 onwards) have this pronounced "bulge" around the cockpit that narrows considerable at the wing roots - I guess it's due to the very thick wings. Around the rear there's also the classic coke bottle shape. It's not so obvious in profiles and even pics, but the model has "strong curves". With the radome painted things look rather balanced, though. Still a fat nose, but it looks as if it makes sense... ;)
Thanks a lot for interest and feedback - painting is going on, just finished a black ink wash and started dry painting on panels. Looks VERY good now!
It looks like a mini-Backfire, so your planned Soviet Navy scheme makes perfect sense. :thumbsup:
Quote from: comrade harps on October 22, 2014, 05:15:34 AM
It looks like a mini-Backfire, so your planned Soviet Navy scheme makes perfect sense. :thumbsup:
Well spotted. I knew it triggered something in the memory banks
That's the plan behind it! The more it becomes concrete the more believable the Su-18 becomes. You think "Su-24", bu, no, just one engine. And the wings are low. A Tu-22M? No, too small... WTF!? ;D
Behold... Black in wash first:
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3954/15601855655_18e117c603_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pLFA8i)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pLFA8i) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
And then some dry painting for panels and weathering:
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3947/15416261010_18416f2e53_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/puhniC)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/puhniC) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5600/15415747178_ddc14bbf35_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pueJys)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pueJys) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
Wow!
Got to practice that finish on my next batch of builds. Great work.
Thank you! BTW, what the Su-18 also reminds me of... :rolleyes:
(https://www.whatifmodellers.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffotos.piqs.de%2F5%2Fc%2F5%2F9%2F5%2Ffe25949ddccf62e858f0f07ac0e3788f.jpg&hash=19f446eff2fbc28f90f9336effe020619843cea3)
That is the ugliest damn bird ever! It looks like it was made out of spare parts God had left over after creating everything else (even after the giraffe and the platypus). I'd say it was prehistoric if there wasn't a house in the background. :blink: Is it related to the blue footed booby?
Think it's a Shoebill ?But I've never seen one posing like that which does make it look odder still :blink:
Quote from: NARSES2 on October 23, 2014, 07:26:55 AM
Think it's a Shoebill ?
Yes it is - with a
curious look at the person taking the photograph... ;)
By the way... decals added:
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5597/15423201498_d07a143f9d_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/puTWtd)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/puTWtd) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3952/14989168973_5e6c50a331_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oQxpHP)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/oQxpHP) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
I love the Naval Aviation units. This thing is fantastic. Great work!
Cheers,
Logan
I would take it to a show just to watch people scratch their heads.
Quote from: kerick on October 23, 2014, 10:47:36 AM
I would take it to a show just to watch people scratch their heads.
Just plonk it down in the middle of the Soviet SIG stand and wait to see how long it takes before they notice it. ;D :lol:
Thank you, also for confirming my personal impression. With more and more details added, the Su-18 just becomes ever convincing. Yesterday I also added the stabilizers and the wheels, and now the aircraft looks even better/balanced. Still a big nose, yes, but proportions are fine. Beauty pics to follow soon, I'm doing finishing touches (ordnance, canopy).
Quote from: PR19_Kit on October 23, 2014, 03:05:27 PM
Quote from: kerick on October 23, 2014, 10:47:36 AM
I would take it to a show just to watch people scratch their heads.
Just plonk it down in the middle of the Soviet SIG stand and wait to see how long it takes before they notice it. ;D :lol:
Ah, but they have an agent on here, so will have seen it :mellow:
Updates from the finishing touches - ordnance will follow with beauty pics (for some variety):
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3952/15619669951_5ccac29751_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pNfTGk)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pNfTGk) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5608/15619669161_663cee40c9_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pNfTsH)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pNfTsH) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
I keep cockpits to a minimum of details, the ejection seat is a replacement since the Smer option is rather clumsy.
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3933/15436331187_66c34b69b9_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pw4eta)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pw4eta) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3939/15623177292_e3b450dddc_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pNySiJ)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pNySiJ) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
This is pure heaven...a mix of the SU15/17/22/24 all in one :wub: :wub: :wub: :thumbsup:. Please load for bear. One day I'll drift back to jets...there are kits trembling in boxes.
Thanks a lot! :cheers:
Another small update... adding some punch! :wacko:
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5613/15600204596_289467fe4a_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pLx8jL)1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) - WiP (https://flic.kr/p/pLx8jL) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/people/14802581@N07/), on Flickr
Finally, here is the 'Fitter N' in full glory:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5598/15005434643_0ea22162b2_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oRYLWp)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/oRYLWp) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5612/15439478708_eec4a8d33e_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pwkn7L)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pwkn7L) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
Some background:
The Su-18 was the final evolutionary step in the long journey of the Su-7 fighter bomber. Seeking to improve low-speed and take-off/landing performance of the Su-7B fighter-bomber, in 1963 the Sukhoi OKB with input from TsAGI created a variable-sweep wing technology demonstrator.
The Su-7IG (internal designation S-22I, NATO designation "Fitter-B"), converted from a production Su-7BM, had fixed inner portions of the wing with movable outer segments which could be swept to 28°, 45°, or 62°. A fixed inner wing simplified construction, allowing the manufacturer to retain the Su-7 landing gear and avoiding the need for complex pivoting underwing hardpoints, and it minimized the shift in the center of pressure relative to the center of mass with change in wing sweep. The new wing also had extensive leading-edge slats and trailing-edge flaps. Su-7IG first flew on 2 August 1966 with V. S. Ilyushin at the controls, becoming the first Soviet variable geometry aircraft. Testing revealed that take-off and landing speeds had decreased by 50–60 km/h (31–37 mph) compared to the conventional Su-7.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5613/15004839274_c7ac326956_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oRVHXq)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/oRVHXq) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5610/15440008880_6e46394c85_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pwo5HE)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pwo5HE) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
The production aircraft was named Su-17 (NATO designation "Fitter-C", factory designation S-32) and was unofficially dubbed Strizh (Стриж, martlet) in service. Aside from the new wing, it differed from its predecessor Su-7 in having a new canopy and a dorsal fuselage spine for additional fuel and avionics. The Su-17 first flew on 1 July 1969.
The Su-17 saw several development steps, ending with the capable Su-17/22M3 and Su-17/22M4; the latter made its maiden flight in 1980 and the last variants were produced until 1990.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3937/15626441632_1bc7734390_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pNRAFs)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pNRAFs) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3935/15622933751_e2fb403129_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pNxBUK)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pNxBUK) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
The Su-22M4 was also operated by the Soviet Naval Aviation (Авиация военно-морского флота in Russian, or Aviatsiya Voenno-Morskogo Flota, literally "aviation of the military maritime fleet") in the attack role, and from the beginning it was clear that the type had no sufficient capability for tactical strikes, esp. against sea targets. The Su-24 tactical bomber was an option, but it was complex and expensive, so that an upgrade of the Su-17 was considered. Primary requirement was a more capable radar/attack suite, tailored to a naval environment, and a better/more modern engine, esp. with a better fuel efficiency.
OKB Sukhoi started to take on the task in 1982. Effectively the design team tried to create a "Su-24 light" on the basis of as many proven Su-17/22 elements as possible. The project received the internal designation S-54D. Mission avionics were to comprise the 'котёнок' (= 'Kitten') suite, a slimmed-down 'Puma' nav/attack system optimized for naval environment. This system complex consisted of two Orion-A superimposed radar scanners for nav/attack, a dedicated Relyef terrain clearance radar to provide automatic control of flights at low and extremely low altitudes, and an Orbita-10-58 onboard computer.
It soon became clear that the original Su-17/22 airframe with nose air intake and its central shock cone did not offer sufficient space for the radar scanners, so OKB Sukhoi had to modify the complete nose section in order to fit a large radome. This radically modified aircraft was designated T-54DM and presented as a mock-up in 1984.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5616/15439474948_26a1ac3203_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pwkkZW)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pwkkZW) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5616/15439606487_66a342e227_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pwm26R)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pwm26R) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
To create sufficient room, the box-shaped air intakes were moved to the flanks and into the wing roots, what meant that the original NR-30 cannons were omitted. As a positive side effect, top speed at height and supersonic performance were reinstated since the Su-17M4's fixed nose cone was replaced by effective, adjustable splitter plates (not unlike the design on the Su-15 interceptor) in the new air intakes - getting the new aircraft's top speed back to more than 2.000 km/h at height. On the other side, the space for the original air duct around the cockpit could be used for avionics and other mission equipment, including a pair of more modern GSh-30-1 30 mm cannons in the lower front fuselage with a 150-round magazine each, which were more effective against groud and air targets alike.
Concerning the engine, the Su-17's Lyulka AL-21F-3 afterburning turbojet was to be replaced by the new and promising Soyuz R-79F-100 turbofan that yielded about 15% more thrust than the original AL-21F, even though fuel consumption was not much better and reliability remained a serious problem throughout the Su-18's career, how the type was officially called in service when it was delivered in early 1987 to the Baltic and Black Sea fleet.
When the aircraft was discovered on NATO's satellite pictures, it was erroneously interpreted as a Su-22 export version for China (since the new nose arrangement reminded a lot of the Q-5 modification of the MiG-19 fighter), and some 'experts' even considered the Su-18 to be an interceptor version of the swing-wing fighter bomber. Anyway, since the Su-18 was still seen as part of the huge Su-7 family it kept its 'Fitter' ASCC code, with the 'N' suffix.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3948/15438961019_5400839c46_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pwhHe6)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pwhHe6) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3955/15440007770_d24f05b7d1_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pwo5ow)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pwo5ow) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
The Su-18's service was short and ambivalent, though. The type was only introduced to the Soviet Naval Aviation, since its котёнок avionics suite was rather limited in scope and could not match up with the Su-24's 'Puma' system. Additionally, the Su-27 multi-role fighter had become a more versatile option for the Soviet Air Force, which had begun to face a severe re-structuring program.
Positive asset was the fact that the Su-18 did not require much flight training – no trainer version was ever built and training was done on Su-17M3 two-seaters. On the other side the single crew layout coupled with the complex weapon system made flying and weapon operations at the same time rather demanding, so that the Su-18 could hardly play out its full potential.
Only about 120 Su-18s were produced until 1990, and in a move to eliminate single engine strike aircraft from its inventory the Russian Air Force already retired its last Su-17M4 along with its fleet of MiG-23/27s in 1998, while the Su-18 in Naval Aviation service soldiered on until 2000. Some countries like Peru and Indonesia showed interest in these aircraft, but all were destroyed in the course of the bilateral START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) treaty.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3938/15440013730_1e4a9c7656_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pwo7ah)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pwo7ah) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3950/15625597875_5a20abbf61_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pNMgRV)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pNMgRV) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
General characteristics:
Crew: 1
Length (incl. pitot): 19.44 m (63 ft 8 in)
Wingspan:
Spread: 13.68 m (44 ft 11 in)
Swept: 10.02 m (32 ft 10 in)
Height: 5.12 m (16 ft 10 in)
Wing area: 38.5 m² (415 ft²) spread, 34.5 m² (370 ft²) swept
Empty weight: 12,160 kg(12.2t) (26,810 lb)
Loaded weight: 16,400 kg(16.5t) (36,155 lb)
Fuel capacity: 3,770 kg (8,310 lb)
Powerplant:
1× Soyuz R-79F-100 turbofan, rated at 99 kN (22.275 lbf) dry thrust and 130 kN (29.250 lbf) with afterburner
Performance:
Maximum speed:
1.400 km/h (755 knots, 870 mph) at sea level
2.150 km/h (1.159 knots, 1.335 mph, Mach 1.9) at altitude
Range:
1,150 km (620 nmi, 715 mi) combat range in hi-lo-hi attack with 2.000 kg (4.409 lb) warload; ferry range: 2.300 km (1.240 nmi, 1.430 mi)
Service ceiling: 14,200 m (46,590 ft)
Rate of climb: 230 m/s (45,275 ft/min)
Wing loading: 443 kg/m² (90.77 lb/ft²
Thrust/weight: 0.68
G-force limit: 7
Airframe lifespan: 2,000 flying hours, 20 years
Armament:
2 × 30 mm GSh-30-1 cannons with 150 RPG in the lower front fuselage
Up to 4000 kg (8,820 lb) on ten hardpoints (three under the fixed portion of each wing, four on the fuselage sides), including Kh-23 (AS-7 'Kerry'), Kh-25 (AS-10 'Karen'), Kh-29 (AS-14 'Kedge'), Kh-31A & P (AS-17 'Krypton) anti-shipping/anti-radiation missiles and Kh-58 (AS-11 'Kilter') guided missiles, as well as electro-optical and laser-guided bombs, free-fall bombs, rocket pods, cluster bombs, SPPU-22-01 cannon pods with traversable barrels, ECM pods, napalm tanks, and nuclear weapons.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5615/15004845634_56f03afe10_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oRVKR5)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/oRVKR5) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3937/15626443422_3917e64099_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pNRBdj)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pNRBdj) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5610/15601908466_a1abc31b79_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pLFRPQ)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/pLFRPQ) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5604/15005436923_5c2ac261ea_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oRYMBH)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/oRYMBH) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5599/15004842304_7af9eb274b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oRVJRE)
1:72 Sukhoi Su-18 (NATO 'Fitter N'), aircraft "24 Yellow" of the Soviet Naval Aviation Baltic Fleet's 66th OMShAP; Veshchovo AB, Vyborg District/Russia, 1991 (Whif/Smer kit conversion) (https://flic.kr/p/oRVJRE) by dizzyfugu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/dizzyfugu/), on Flickr
Totally brilliant Thomas, your best yet I think. Wholly believable too. :thumbsup: :bow:
This is just wonderful, Dizzy—one of my favorites of your recent models. It looks very plausible. I always thought the Sukhoi VG attack aircraft were under-appreciated. This one really looks great.
Cheers,
Logan
Oh my, that is so nice. Looks like the real thing too. Lovely.
:cheers:
Quote from: PR19_Kit on October 26, 2014, 01:04:16 PM
Totally brilliant Thomas, your best yet I think. Wholly believable too. :thumbsup: :bow:
Thank you (all), but - as per usual - do not look to closely at the kit itself. The finish is mediocre, partly due to the fact that the Smer kit needs tons of putty to go together.
Personally, I am surprised how good the overall package turned out and how realistic the Su-18 looks - despite the bulbous nose. With everything in place it finally "plays the part", and the simple grey tactical bomber livery adds to that. One of the most effective whifs I built, IMHO, since just a radome and air intakes were added and a different nose wheel implanted. Basically
very easy and simple! The more am I amazed how Suchoj-ish the result still looks, ;D
Oooh yeah. Nice one Dizz. Love your weathering and as always the photos are the icing on the cake.
Wonderfull build and pics :bow:
In a 100 years time people will think it really existed ;D (seriously that actually worries me at time :banghead:)
Thanks a lot, guys! :cheers:
Best is that it was inspired/triggered by a discussion here (thanks to Jesse220 for starting the respective thread) - from words to hardware!
Very, very cool! :bow:
The squashed windshield, which usually ruins the looks of the real-life Fitter models made from this kit, looks really fitting on this one. The modified nose landing gear also looks great.
Seeing this model, I wonder about combing a Flagon fuselage with Fitter swing-wings and a Flogger duckbill nose. Sorta like Dizzyfugu's T-58Sh/Su-15Sh/Su-21D (LINK! (http://www.whatifmodelers.com/index.php/topic,37504.0/)), but taking it one step further.
Quote from: ChernayaAkula on October 27, 2014, 10:10:57 AM
Very, very cool! :bow:
The squashed windshield, which usually ruins the looks of the real-life Fitter models made from this kit, looks really fitting on this one. The modified nose landing gear also looks great.
Seeing this model, I wonder about combing a Flagon fuselage with Fitter swing-wings and a Flogger duckbill nose. Sorta like Dizzyfugu's T-58Sh/Su-15Sh/Su-21D (LINK! (http://www.whatifmodelers.com/index.php/topic,37504.0/)), but taking it one step further.
Just go ahead! :cheers:
There's a lot of potential in the Suchoj family. Personally I wondered how a Panavia Tornado with this kind of air intakes would look like...? Maybe with fixed wings and a twin fin...? ;D
I like the whole thing... Very plausible backstory, build and pics! Great work!
:cheers:
Thank you, too! :cheers:
That is absolutely brilliant and beautiful...
Thank you very much! :cheers:
As a side note, fellow FlickR user Eínon built a brick version of the same Su-17 conversion concept (actually inspired by the photoshopped pic on page 1) some time ago - I was not aware of that, but he found my Su-18 build. And here's the "brick beauty" from Portugal:
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7422/12812166265_4a5db41bd4_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/kwaGEn)Quimera strike fighter (https://flic.kr/p/kwaGEn) by Eínon (https://www.flickr.com/people/55061368@N03/), on Flickr
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3718/12812165785_0aa09c8772_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/kwaGw6)3 Quimeras on patrol (https://flic.kr/p/kwaGw6) by Eínon (https://www.flickr.com/people/55061368@N03/), on Flickr
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5522/12812166275_8d18aa0106_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/kwaGEx)VL-400 Rear view (https://flic.kr/p/kwaGEx) by Eínon (https://www.flickr.com/people/55061368@N03/), on Flickr
Not my personal style, but VERY cool... :wub:
Very nice indeed! And that makes at least two portuguese guys following your work. :thumbsup:
I revive this thread because the kit and its pics on FlickR attained interest from Russia, probably a couple of days ago...
https://translate.google.de/translate?hl=de&sl=ru&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Falternathistory.com%2Falternativnyi-palubnyi-istrebitel-bombardirovshchik-su-18-sssr
Trying to follow the ensuing discussion among experts is rather funny. ;D
Quote from: Dizzyfugu on February 09, 2016, 12:22:00 AM
Trying to follow the ensuing discussion among experts is rather funny. ;D
It certainly gives you a headache!
It's all greek to me...
What a fantastic build........awesome stuff......I was going in to town for some modelling stuff........may just pop into the haberdashers and speak to the old dears in there re knitting needles and the use of..........
I finally caught up with this build and I love it!!!! :wub: :wub: :wub:
It's such a cool idea and it works, very much possibility I think.
Now you've made want to go out a build 1/48th version!!!! hmmmmm :wacko:
I knew I'd seen that pic before lol. A couple of the finished build 'beauty' pics aren't working tho
Yes, I know. Since I posted the stiff here I made updates at FlickR, where they are hosted. Unfortunately the URLs change when you edit the pics - but strangely NOT when you replace them... :rolleyes:
Repaired the "damage" in the background entry on page #4 (http://www.whatifmodellers.com/index.php/topic,39538.msg656784.html#msg656784).
Quote from: Dizzyfugu on October 27, 2014, 10:15:42 AM
<...> Personally I wondered how a Panavia Tornado with this kind of air intakes would look like...? Maybe with fixed wings and a twin fin...? ;D
ADV with the wings from a Mirage IV (cut to size if necessary) some canards. :thumbsup:
Hi
on this picture can you tell me more in detail with which part you did?
https://www.hebergeur-image.fr/uploads/20210422/765d4fc6a4a10330013dcff1705ff5aeb2f1e352.jpg
Best
The air intakes come from a PM Model Su-15 "Flagon", and IIRC the rear section of the ducts are pieces/sections from 1:72 Bv 155 underwing radiators (ArtModel kit) - even though I'd today rather sculpt/scratch them from 2C putty and make them longer, so that they blend into the fuselage more elegantly.
Thanks Magnificent realization passionate also of what if bravo
Utterly convincing :thumbsup: