The Trumpeter MiG-23 is a nice kit, but the seat and the whole cockpit is simplified. It may be just the limitations of plastic molding technology, but now you don’t have to scratchbuild the cockpit. The Aires set comes in their normal packaging in a plastic container, with foam securing the parts in place. It is effective. I did have one piece fall off the sprue, but that is to be expected in shipping, sometimes.

There are nine exquisite resin parts perfectly molded in light grey resin. The amount of detail in this set has to be seen to be believed. The cockpit is perfection. The undercuts on the side walls are impressive. The same can be said for the instrument panel coaming. The pour blocks are small and will be easy to remove.

Typical of Aires is the inclusion of a fret of nickel-plated photo etch. In this case, it includes the seatbelts and side wall detail. Also included is a film with the instruments and the HUD. This will require some white behind the panel to bring out the instruments.

Assembly is straightforward with no overly difficult assembly. The side walls will need to be thinned, but again this is just typical Aires and within the abilities of the modeler who buys and uses these sets.

If you are like me and enjoy having a good-looking cockpit, this set is perfect for you. This will add to your Flogger’s look. If you are an experienced modeler, then this cockpit set is perfect for you.

Highly recommended.

Thanks to Aires and IPMS/USA for the review copy.