The ZU-23-2 was developed in the late 1950s. It was designed to engage low-flying targets at a range of 2.5 kilometers as well as armored vehicles at a range of two kilometers and for direct defense of troops and strategic locations against air assault usually conducted by helicopters and low-flying airplanes. In 1955, KBP presented the single-barrel ZU-1 and the twin-barrel ZU-14. While the former was eventually dropped, the ZU-14 was selected and, after some modifications, entered series production.

In the Soviet Union, some 140,000 units were produced. The ZU-23 has also been produced under license by Bulgaria, Poland, Egypt and the People's Republic of China.

Development of this weapon into a self-propelled anti-aircraft gun (SPAAG) led to the ZSU-23-4 Shilka. However, the guns look completely different.

Following the release of Eduard’s spectacular 1/72nd MiG-15 and MiG-15bis kits, Master Model of Poland has released turned brass gun barrels for these kits. Included in the package are barrels to replace the kit’s 37mm cannon and two 23mm cannon. In addition, Master Model has included a pitot tube and antenna base, both out of turned brass as well.

The 37mm cannon consist of two parts, one sliding into the other. The instructions make this clear and the two parts fit together flawlessly. I added these parts to my already in-progress Eduard MiG-15. However, I would highly recommend these parts be added before you start painting your model. It’s also not entirely clear, but the small antenna base replaces the small bump on the kit fuselage. The instructions show the location clearly, but do not make any mention to removing the kit’s “antenna base.”

Thanks to Aires for providing IPMS/USA this wheel set for review… As ALWAYS we appreciate your support, and thanks to IPMS USA leadership for allowing me to review this set.

About 20 years ago I never thought we would be living in the age of such cool resin parts… and then I receive this set for review. The “Oh cool” factor (some call it ‘wow’) is very high here.

The Hobby Boss F-14 appears to be a great kit. One area that needs a bit of picking up the bar on is the wheels and tires. Enter Aires Wheeliant!

Inside the Retro-red slip cover are 8 wheel halves, and four tires which have been pre-flattened to a proper level for high pressure tires. Also included (at least in this package) was a length of copper wire to add brake lines. Absolutely a great idea!