Dmitry Mironov has authored several books for Kagero, including The Japanese Battleship Fuso (2017) and The Japanese Battleship Fuso (2017) in the Super Drawings in 3D series. Dmitry Mironov also authored Sd.Kfz. 171 Panzer V “Panther” Ausf. A/D/G in Kagero’s Top Drawings series. You can find more of his artwork online.

Kagero’s The Type XXI U-boat is the latest in their Super Drawings in 3D series. This edition is in their standard 8.25” x 11.75” format softbound publication that is 60 pages (excluding covers). This volume starts off with six pages of historical text followed by 54 pages of color 3D illustrations. I counted 76 color 3D illustrations along with one table. There are no current nor period photographs.

This book describes the design, development, and operational history of US-made tanks in British service in World War II. The British were initially reluctant to endorse the American-made tanks as they felt they were inferior to British developed tanks. The British eventually appreciated the simplicity of American designed tanks and modified them to meet British needs. The Lend Lease program allowed Britain to obtain American tanks in adequate numbers to take pressure off of the British manufacturers. By the end of World War II the British tank regiments were equipped with more Sherman tanks than any other type.

The Airfix Stuka is an impressive kit but there is room for improvement. One area that would benefit from aftermarket is the seats. In short, they lack the seatbelts and shoulder harnesses needed to bring this kit out of the ordinary.

Packaged in the typical Eduard resealable packaging with a cardboard stiffener inside is a single pre-painted fret. The cardboard helps prevent bending during storage. The single fret is beautifully represented with ‘shading’ and silver buckles. Since they are thin steel, they are beautifully detailed and bend easily without losing their paint. There are shoulder harnesses for the front seat and lap belts and straps for the other two seats.

The seatbelts are easy enough to add and when seen through the canopy glazing will make a dramatic change to your cockpit. This set is another great example of Eduard’s craft at its finest.

Highly recommended