I-16 Type 10 1:48 Eduard 8148

Plastic model airplane for assembly: I-16 Type 10 1:48 Eduard 8148

The Eduard 8148 model kit represents the Soviet fighter aircraft Polikarpov I-16 Type 10 in 1:48 scale. This is a set from the ProfiPACK series, which offers high quality and detail, ideal for modelers seeking realistic representations of historical machines.

Contents of the set:

• Plastic parts: Eduard
• Decal options: 4
• Decals: Eduard
• Photo-etched elements: pre-painted
• Painting masks: yes

Model data:

• Scale: 1:48

History and significance of the Polikarpov I-16: The Polikarpov I-16 was a revolutionary fighter aircraft that introduced a new era in fighter design. It was a single-engine, single-seat low-wing monoplane with retractable landing gear, which was the first of its kind to achieve operational status. Introduced into service in the mid-1930s, the I-16 formed the backbone of the Soviet Air Force at the beginning of World War II.

This aircraft earned nicknames "Ishak" or "Ishachok" (little donkey) among Soviet pilots. It participated in many conflicts, such as the Second Sino-Japanese War, the Battle of Khalkhin Gol, the Winter War, and the Spanish Civil War, where it was known as "Rata" (rat) or "Mosca" (fly).

Design and development: The I-16 was the result of work on an advanced monoplane fighter that introduced modern innovations such as retractable landing gear and a closed cockpit. It was optimized for speed, with a short, stocky fuselage and a Wright R-1820 engine in a NACA cowling. The construction was mixed, with a wooden fuselage and wings with metal components.

Operational service: The I-16 was a challenging aircraft to fly, with limited visibility and a tendency to enter a spin during sharp maneuvers. Nevertheless, its maneuverability and speed were appreciated by pilots. In Spain, the I-16 dominated enemy biplanes until the introduction of the Messerschmitt Bf 109.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. For assembly, separately sold modeling tools are needed (including cutters, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g., Tamiya Extra Thin Cement). The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.