RAF Flanker

[lancer]

Ok, not exactly new, but I wanted to show it off anyway. Especially after all the speculation about Western Flankers on another thread.

OK, in response to Toads request, and since I put new batteries in the camera. I would like to present The Avro Anaconda.
When Sukhoi offered Green SU27 airframes to the UK back in the 80's, the Thatcher govt said yes at the urging of the air staff, who seeing the potential of this aircr0aft knew it would be an ideal air defence fighter the the RAF. Initially the first 50 airframes were built by Sukhoi and shipped to the UK for engine and systems fitting, the remianing 150 airframes were licence built by Avro and the type was names the Anaconda, why no one really knows.
The Anaconda F1 went on to equip a number of squadrons, a lot of which were reactivated and several 'famous' fighter squadrons, including 43; 56; 74 and 92 sqns. The anaconda depicted here is the 56 Sqn 1998 season display aircraft, hence the scheme worn. Although it retains all the lethality of a front line aircraft.

I used the airfix SU27 to build this and I will NEVER use it again! The under carridge is flimsy especially the 2 part front u/c. As can be seen from the underside photo. I will be converting this to an in flight model, just gotta get some 4mm clear rod first. I also need to stick some wore side winders on the wing tips as well.