The kit is a 1/144 Mini Hobby Models MIG-21PF Fishbed.  A simple kit with external stores of a PTB-490 centreline drop tank and 2 x AA-2 Atoll  AAM . Basic decal set of the Russian Red star and Bort Red 33 and red triangular warnings. 

I decided to do some research to see what enhancements are needed to make it resemble a PF variant. I then came to know that the VPAF flew the PF variant and so set my mind to build one.

There were two popular VPAF MIG 21PFs  - Red '4326' and Red '4324' from the famed 921 Fighter Regiment. I then decided to build Red '4324'.

For the enhancements I added the following using scratch-built items:-

a.  Wing fence, flaps actuator fairing, main landing gear well fairing on the fuselage, tailplane linkage fairings

b.  Replace the anti-flutter weight on the horizontal stab with a thinner styrene rod

c.  Added the standard IFF antennas on the fin tip and chin

d.  Improved the cockpit area with a simple IP and added pilot to the seat. The canopy was sanded down for fit. It was then polished and coated with Future.

e. Sanded down the fins and filled the gaps on the PTB-490 drop tank

f. Extended the exhaust and sanded down into shape

As for painting, I decided on a straightforward NMF approach. I used Mr Metal Aluminium and airbrush it on. The finish was somewhat dull. I then used cotton buds to buff it up and create the various shades with varying degrees of buffing done. I was pretty satisfied with the overall finish.

The decals were self-made. Brushed on two thin coats of Future prior to applying the decals after curing. Two more coats thereafter to seal them and provide a smooth finish.

Click on images below to see larger images

As for painting, I decided on a straightforward NMF approach. I used Mr Metal Aluminium and airbrushed it on. The finish was somewhat dull. I then used cotton buds to buff it up and create the various shades with varying degrees of buffing done. I was pretty satisfied with the overall finish.

The decals were self-made. Brushed on two thin coats of Future prior to applying the decals after curing. Two more coats thereafter to seal them and provide a smooth finish.

S K Loh

Click on images below to see larger images