Background

The Vympel R-27 (NATO code AA-10 Alamo) is the family of the medium-range air-to-air missiles guided by active/semi-active radar or IR seeker. According to some internet sources the missile was designed in the early 1980's, others say about 1986, to arm Mig-29, Su-27, Su-30, Su-33, Su-34 and Su-35 airplanes. Some tests were also made with later variants of Mig-21s, Mig-23s ND Yak-141. R-27 was designed to counterweight the American AIM-7 Sparrow missiles.
The missile have the modular design which allows, for example, to quickly change the guidance type just by changing the seeker head.

Available versions

• AL4001 – Training unit UZR-27
  Training missile based on the combat versions. Equipped with inert rocket motor and warhead. Used only for training purposes.
  
• AL4003 – R-27R AA-10 Alamo A
  Semi-active radar seeker. Range: about 70km.
  
• AL4006 – R-27T AA-10 Alamo B
  Equipped with infrared homing warhead. Range: about 70km.
  
• AL4007 – R-27ER AA-10 Alamo C
  Extended range version with the semi-active radar seeker, extended version of "R" type. Range: about 120km.
  
• AL4008 – R-27ET Alamo D
  This type has the extended and wider fuselage to accommodate more powerful engine and more solid-fuel. It is an extended version of "T" type. Range: about 120km. It is guided by IR seeker. Entered service in 1990.
  
  

  R-27 missiles by Plus Model

  
  All sets have the same features, they differ only in details specific for particular version of the missile. Parts are packaged into the blister type boxes. Inside each we can find multi-media parts for building two complete rockets. Fuselages, separate warheads and "butterfly" control surfaces are cast in grey resin. Each box contains also a decal sheet and PE fret, which are common for all versions except UZR-27. Warheads are made in two variants: combat ready, or with a protective cap installed. In the IR variation the seekers are made of what appears to be clear resin. The PE frets provides parts like stabilizing fins and different connectors and their covers (these parts are prepainted in red).
  Assembly instruction proves to be very useful while building these kits. On one side we can see a large colour photograph which can be used as reference while painting. Building process is shown on a large scheme, plain and easy to read. A separate drawing shows the placings of the decals.
  
  

  Conclusion

  
  The quality of the castings is nearly perfect. Major parts are enough detailed themselves but adding PE parts and decals just carries it away muc more. There are no air bubbles on the casting or any other uncleanlinesses.
  
  The R-27 sets are complicated enough to be considered as models themselves, not just upgrading “accessories”. They will surely make more attractive any model of the combat plane you will use them with. If you find (or build yourself) any display stand or a trolley you can also use them for a diorama or as an example of the weapons variety carried by a particular plane.