What if

Picture Post => Current and Finished Projects => Aircraft => Topic started by: Dizzyfugu on October 16, 2014, 12:07:48 AM

Title: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 16, 2014, 12:07:48 AM
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:

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...  ;)
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 16, 2014, 09:06:23 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: PR19_Kit on October 16, 2014, 09:52:04 AM
That's a BIG aeroplane!  :o
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Army of One on October 16, 2014, 02:50:17 PM
Oooooh......looking forward to this......... :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Captain Canada on October 16, 2014, 06:38:30 PM
Oh yeah. The new intakes look awesome ! Love to watch your work...thanks !

:cheers:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Tophe on October 16, 2014, 09:32:26 PM
Great! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 17, 2014, 01:07:17 AM
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:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: McColm on October 17, 2014, 04:26:11 AM
Can't wait to see the finished article.
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 17, 2014, 05:09:48 AM
Quote from: McColm on October 17, 2014, 04:26:11 AM
Can't wait to see the finished article.

Me too...
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 17, 2014, 09:13:08 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: tc2324 on October 17, 2014, 11:20:30 AM
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: kerick on October 17, 2014, 11:58:54 AM
Thanks for stepping up to the plate, this needed to be built!
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Captain Canada on October 17, 2014, 02:01:46 PM
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:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 18, 2014, 02:49:30 AM
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:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: NARSES2 on October 18, 2014, 06:01:20 AM
The cookie box blister is a neat idea  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 18, 2014, 06:59:47 AM
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.
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: rickshaw on October 18, 2014, 09:00:29 PM
Going to take a LOT of blending on those big intakes.
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: kerick on October 18, 2014, 09:13:13 PM
But its going to look great!
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: trickyrich on October 19, 2014, 12:10:40 AM
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!
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 19, 2014, 12:24:00 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: PR19_Kit on October 19, 2014, 04:32:01 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: ChernayaAkula on October 19, 2014, 06:57:34 AM
That's going to look great!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 19, 2014, 09:12:31 AM
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:

Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: PR19_Kit on October 19, 2014, 10:11:56 AM
Yes, that is wiiiiiiide at the front!  :o

Good Putty-Fu there.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Captain Canada on October 19, 2014, 11:35:54 AM
The new intakes have been beholden ! I liked ! Love the look of this one. But angered at how easy you make it look  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: kerick on October 19, 2014, 08:10:29 PM
That beast looks totally believable!
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: trickyrich on October 19, 2014, 10:34:05 PM
It's hard to believe you could make an Su-17/22 look any meaner but you have!!! Awesome! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 20, 2014, 12:53:56 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 20, 2014, 09:15:33 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: 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.
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 20, 2014, 10:05:06 AM
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?
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 21, 2014, 03:18:59 AM
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:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 21, 2014, 09:42:52 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: PR19_Kit on October 21, 2014, 10:57:47 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: nighthunter on October 21, 2014, 11:09:29 AM
Looking Fantastic, Thomas!
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Captain Canada on October 21, 2014, 07:46:38 PM
Nice....that's looking so good ! Love this one.

:cheers:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 22, 2014, 03:59:36 AM
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!
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: 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:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: NARSES2 on October 22, 2014, 07:27:26 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 22, 2014, 09:07:45 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 22, 2014, 10:11:29 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: McColm on October 22, 2014, 04:52:32 PM
Wow!
Got to practice that finish on my next batch of builds. Great work.
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 23, 2014, 02:31:46 AM
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)
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: kerick on October 23, 2014, 06:34:57 AM
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?
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: NARSES2 on October 23, 2014, 07:26:55 AM
Think it's a Shoebill ?But I've never seen one posing like that which does make it look odder still  :blink:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 23, 2014, 07:49:06 AM
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...  ;)
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP [Decals added]
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 23, 2014, 09:42:51 AM
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
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Logan Hartke on October 23, 2014, 09:48:37 AM
I love the Naval Aviation units. This thing is fantastic. Great work!

Cheers,

Logan
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: kerick on October 23, 2014, 10:47:36 AM
I would take it to a show just to watch people scratch their heads.
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: 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:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 24, 2014, 01:38:03 AM
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).
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: NARSES2 on October 24, 2014, 07:49:29 AM
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:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - Almost done!
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 25, 2014, 04:23:14 AM
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

Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Librarian on October 25, 2014, 05:43:27 AM
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.
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 25, 2014, 06:59:36 AM
Thanks a lot!  :cheers:
Title: Re: A missing link... The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - WiP
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 25, 2014, 08:21:29 AM
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
Title: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 26, 2014, 10:52:07 AM
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
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: PR19_Kit on October 26, 2014, 01:04:16 PM
Totally brilliant Thomas, your best yet I think. Wholly believable too.  :thumbsup: :bow:
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Logan Hartke on October 26, 2014, 01:33:39 PM
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
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Captain Canada on October 26, 2014, 04:01:06 PM
Oh my, that is so nice. Looks like the real thing too. Lovely.

:cheers:
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 27, 2014, 12:58:23 AM
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
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: zenrat on October 27, 2014, 01:48:30 AM
Oooh yeah.  Nice one Dizz.  Love your weathering and as always the photos are the icing on the cake.
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: NARSES2 on October 27, 2014, 09:17:08 AM
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:)
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 27, 2014, 09:39:20 AM
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!
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: 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.
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 27, 2014, 10:15:42 AM
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
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: DogfighterZen on October 27, 2014, 10:48:21 AM
I like the whole thing... Very plausible backstory, build and pics! Great work!
:cheers:
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 28, 2014, 12:33:40 AM
Thank you, too!  :cheers:
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: lancer on October 29, 2014, 04:45:33 PM
That is absolutely brilliant and beautiful...
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Dizzyfugu on October 30, 2014, 12:50:53 AM
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:
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: DogfighterZen on October 30, 2014, 11:02:12 AM
Very nice indeed! And that makes at least two portuguese guys following your work.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Dizzyfugu on February 09, 2016, 12:22:00 AM
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
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: PR19_Kit on February 09, 2016, 01:46:59 AM
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!
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: zenrat on February 09, 2016, 02:52:55 AM
It's all greek to me...
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Army of One on February 11, 2016, 02:26:18 AM
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..........
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: trickyrich on February 21, 2016, 06:57:50 PM
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:
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Captain Canada on May 17, 2017, 06:46:33 AM
I knew I'd seen that pic before lol. A couple of the finished build 'beauty' pics aren't working tho
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Dizzyfugu on May 17, 2017, 07:05:02 AM
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).
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: ChernayaAkula on May 17, 2017, 12:13:15 PM
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:
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: leptiprince on April 22, 2021, 02:14:04 AM
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
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: Dizzyfugu on April 22, 2021, 02:19:36 AM
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.
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: leptiprince on April 22, 2021, 02:26:07 AM
Thanks Magnificent realization passionate also of what if bravo
Title: Re: The Su-18 ('Fitter N') - a missing family link [pics & story on p. 4]
Post by: comrade harps on April 22, 2021, 07:38:51 AM
Utterly convincing  :thumbsup: