Plus Model, maker of fine detailed aftermarket products, just produced a ladder for the Russian SU-27 Flanker. What is unique about this item is that it is injection molded instead of resin or photo etch that other companies make. Although this does require some assembly, being able to make fine adjustments to better fit the various kits is a real bonus.

The kit comes in a sturdy box and the sprue is in a suitable plastic bag. The instructions are printed on the back of the box and are basic but sufficient to assist your build. The 15 parts have minimal flash which cleans up easily. There are eight steps with a small recess which are likely through holes on the real step. Note that the pattern is not symmetric and the instructions do not indicate what direction they go. Just note that so you can align them in the same direction.

Assembly was simple but as noted above, watch alignment on stems. Being able to assemble the parts together with liquid glue gives you time to make sure the steps and other parts are “square” when drying. I test fit the ladder on my SU-27 model before I attached the lower extension. I have seen some photos without that extension. Check your references and test fit on your kit. Also note that the ladder attaches to the real aircraft by plugging into small openings on the fuselage, you may want to open these areas to attach your ladder.

After a coat of primer, I painted the ladder red, however no specific color spec was listed. I decided to use Russian "Marker Red" (Model Master 2127) enamel paint and it looks correct from reference photos. After a little black wash in strategic areas, a dull clear coat was added. The build was enjoyable and will make an outstanding addition you your SU-27 or possibly family of Flankers.

The ladder was test fit on an Academy SU-27 Flanker which I built 15 years ago . I would like to thank Plus Model for this review sample.