Most modellers will know Vector for their resin engines in 1/48 scale. These were always of a very high quality. For some time, the Russian manufacturer has also ventured into full kits and aftermarket accessories for kits by other producers. The material used is still resin, which is very good for the detail that can be achieved, but requires some different construction techniques to normal plastic kits, especially for gluing.

Vector was producing its own line of resin LaGG-3 kits when the ICM model hit the market, so no wonder the Russian manufacturer has also produced detail sets for the plastic kit. This set upgrades the cockpit of the "guaranteed varnished coffin".

The modeler has to be prepared for some intense work to update the ICM kit, so think in advance if you really want to do this! The whole interior has to be cleaned of any detail to install the Vector goodies. As you might expect, the detail of the set is very nice and crisp. Some care has to be taken to avoid damage to the fine cast parts. You get a rudimentary instruction leaflet for the installation.

Casting is flawless as in all other sets I have from this manufacturer. All the parts were intact when I got the kit but I managed to break a small wedge of the floor plate. Luckily this cannot be seen once the cockpit is installed. For the thinly cast instrument panel you get an acetate sheet with instrument faces.

Conclusion

This is an very nice update set for your ICM LaGG-3 series 1-4 and it will improve the look of the kit. But you are in for some major sanding and grinding inside the fuselage. Thus I would rather recommend it to experienced modelers

You can buy this set via NeOmega, Linden Hill or Sprue Brothers. Thanks to Sergey Kosachev for the review sample.

Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE.