A-Model 72123 Polikarpov I-16 type 5/6 Soviet Fighter 1/72

A-Model 72123 Polikarpov I-16 type 5/6 Soviet Fighter 1/72 is a plastic model kit that faithfully recreates one of the most distinctive Soviet Union fighter aircraft from the pre-World War II era and its early years. This model is produced in the popular 1/72 scale, making it ideal both for historical collections and aviation dioramas from that period.

The Polikarpov I-16 was the world’s first all-metal monoplane fighter with retractable landing gear. Designed in the USSR, it entered service in the mid-1930s. The type 5 and 6 variants were widely used by Soviet Air Forces during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), in the Sino-Japanese conflict, and in the initial phase of World War II, especially during clashes with the Luftwaffe in June 1941. It was characterized by high maneuverability and a compact size, which made it a difficult target. It served primarily between 1934 and 1943.

The presented A-Model 72123 Polikarpov I-16 model is made from high-quality plastic, ensuring precise details and a sturdy construction. The kit includes all components necessary to assemble the aircraft, including a highly detailed cockpit and landing gear parts. The manufacturer has not included glue or paints in the set, giving modelers the freedom to choose color schemes in accordance with the chosen historical Soviet unit markings.

• Model scale: 1/72
• Original operator country: Soviet Union (USSR)
• Historical period: 1930s, Spanish Civil War, World War II
• Material: high-quality plastic
• Category: plastic model kit
• Optionally, the model can be enhanced with aftermarket parts such as photo-etched components, resin, or metal barrels (sold separately)

The A-Model 72123 Polikarpov I-16 type 5/6 Soviet Fighter 1/72 kit is recommended for both beginner and more advanced modelers interested in interwar and World War II aviation technology. We rate the build difficulty as 2 on a scale of 1-5, making the set an excellent choice for learning precision and modeling techniques. The model will provide satisfaction to both history enthusiasts and military aviation collectors alike.