Su-27 Flanker Early 1:48 Model Kit by Hobby Boss

Model Features

• 1:48 scale plastic model kit
• Accurately represents the early production Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker air superiority fighter
• Highly detailed cockpit with realistic K-36 ejection seat and instrument panel
• Finely engraved panel lines and authentic surface detail
• Detailed twin-engine air intakes and exhaust nozzles
• Accurate landing gear and detailed wheel wells
• Variable-position control surfaces
• Includes a comprehensive air-to-air weapons load featuring R-27 and R-73 missiles
• Photo-etched detail parts included
• Clear canopy with excellent transparency
• Precision-moulded plastic parts
• Waterslide decal sheet with Soviet Air Force markings
• Illustrated assembly instructions
• Ideal for Cold War aviation collections, Soviet Air Force displays, or modern fighter aircraft diorama projects.

Specifications

• Brand: Hobby Boss
• Scale: 1:48
• Subject: Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker Early
• Material: Injection-moulded plastic
• Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate to advanced modellers
• Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
• Recommended Age: 14+
• Parts: Over 300
• Photo-Etched Parts: 1 piece
• Model Length: 470mm
• Wingspan: 308mm

What's in the Box

• Plastic sprues
• Clear canopy parts
• Photo-etched detail parts
• R-73 (AA-11 Archer) air-to-air missiles
• R-27R, R-27ER, R-27T and R-27ET missile options
• Waterslide decal sheet
• Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Aircraft

The Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker was developed during the 1970s by the Sukhoi Design Bureau to counter the emerging generation of advanced Western fighters, particularly the American F-15 Eagle. The Soviet Air Forces required a long-range air superiority fighter capable of dominating enemy aircraft at both short and long distances while protecting the vast airspace of the Soviet Union.

The Su-27 prototype made its first flight in 1977, and after an extensive redesign programme the production aircraft entered operational service in 1985. Featuring a highly aerodynamic blended wing-body design, powerful engines, and advanced fly-by-wire controls, the Flanker offered exceptional manoeuvrability, long range, and impressive acceleration. It quickly established itself as one of the most capable fourth-generation fighters in the world.

Powered by two Saturn-Lyulka AL-31F afterburning turbofan engines, the Su-27 can exceed Mach 2.35 and has a combat radius far greater than many contemporary fighters. Its aerodynamic performance also enabled spectacular manoeuvres, including the famous Pugachev's Cobra, demonstrating the aircraft's remarkable high-angle-of-attack handling.

The aircraft is armed with a 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon and can carry a wide variety of air-to-air missiles, including the R-73 (AA-11 Archer) for close-range engagements and the R-27 (AA-10 Alamo) family for medium- and long-range interception. Combined with its advanced radar and infrared search-and-track (IRST) system, the Su-27 became a formidable opponent capable of engaging multiple targets in all weather conditions.

The Flanker became the foundation for an entire family of combat aircraft, including the Su-30, Su-33, Su-34, Su-35, and several export variants that continue to serve with air forces around the world. It has seen operational service in numerous conflicts and remains one of the most influential fighter designs of the modern era.

Renowned for its combination of speed, agility, endurance, and heavy armament, the Su-27 remains one of the defining symbols of Soviet and Russian military aviation and continues to be a favourite subject among aircraft enthusiasts and scale modellers alike.

Historical Snapshot

• Country: Soviet Union
• First Flight: 20 May 1977
• Entered Service: 1985
• Role: Air Superiority Fighter
• Manufacturer: Sukhoi Design Bureau
• Crew: 1
• Engines: Two Saturn-Lyulka AL-31F afterburning turbofan engines
• Primary Armament: One 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon
• Secondary Armament: R-27, R-73 and other air-to-air missiles on up to 10 hardpoints
• Maximum Speed: Approximately Mach 2.35 (2,500 km/h / 1,553 mph)
• Range: Approximately 3,530 km

Please Note

This is an unassembled plastic model kit. Paint, glue, and modelling tools are not included. Recommended for ages 14 and over.