AMK’s 1/48 Mig-31 is a kit that, once you see one built, it grabs you. Phenomenal engineering of a large subject is a real show stopper. Even as well designed as the kit is, there is always some room for improvements. Aires to the rescue with a set of speed brakes and pistons as replacements.

Inside the package, you will find a left and right speed brake (they are handed so watch for location) and two pistons for support. There are no instructions as these are direct replacements for the kit parts.

Preparation consists of freeing the pistons from the casting block and webbing which is easily accomplished with a sharp knife. You can see that the Aires parts (also available from Quickboost as a standalone set) are cast finer especially in the piston parts. A small difference but noticeable.

The speed brakes themselves have a significant casting block on the exterior part. Sand it smooth and you are golden. Note that the part will get thin so take your time sanding. Comparison between the kit part and Aires show that the Aires is somewhat finer detailed and the kit part suffers from some dimples which are not evident on my pictures. The Aires parts are thinner and more accurate.

In the end, if desire more detail, Aires is the way to go with finer and more detailed speed brakes and pistons. As with all Aires products they give modelers choices with simple additions like their Quickboost line or more elaborate like this excellent set of speed brakes for an already excellent kit. Recommended.

My thanks to Aires and IPMS/USA for the opportunity to review this set.