First introduced in the 1930’s, the Polikarpov I-16 was an advanced Russian fighter that formed the backbone of the Soviet Air Force at the beginning of World War II. The small fighter prominently featured in the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Spanish Civil War was nicknamed "Mosca".
When the tiny aircraft flew for the first time in 1933, its design was far more advanced than many other fighters of the time. It featured retractable landing gear, a cantilever wing and variable pitch propeller.
Although it is not among the most renowned aircraft of the era, the Polikarpov I-16 was a very able and rugged machine which was widely used in the events of the time. By the beginning of the Spanish war in 1936, the I-16 proved to be more than a match for the German Heinkel He51 and Arado Ar68. Soon after, it would be out outclassed by the Messerschmitt Bf109.
I used Azur’s 1/32 model kit to produce this tiny aircraft, a very challenging kit that requires a great deal of sanding. I also added Contact Resine products, such as the resin cockpit, engine and cooler. I also utilized the exterior set, which includes the landing gear, wheels, rudder, control surfaces and photo-etched parts. These additions are a must to produce an authentic looking Polikarpov I-16. Enjoy the photos.
