If you want to build a Saab Gripen in 1/72 scale, you currently have only one choice - the Italeri kits that include single-seat or two-seat versions. These kits have been around a little while, but are good representations of the early versions. One area of these kits that needs improvement is the sensor probes, both the pitot tubes and Angle-of-Attack (AOA) sensors. They are over scale and not the correct shape. Luckily for us modelers, this product from Master Model of Poland corrects the deficiency. Their package contains two AOA sensors, a nose mounted pitot tube, a tail mounted pitot tube, and a brass fret for the nose vortex generators. Since they are to scale, all of these pieces are extremely delicate. The two AOA sensors, mounted on the sides of the forward fuselage are "micro" sized. I quickly learned not to grab the model by the forward fuselage sides, as these sensors are also needle sharp. Ouch!

Installation is easy: drill holes and attach the probes with CA glue. I did saw grooves into the nose cone to give the vortex generators some purchase. Once installed, however, the pitot tubes are easily bent, so extra care will be needed when handling the model. In my photos of these pieces on my model, I went over them with black marker to provide some contrast as they are that delicate. Overall, these replacement parts look much more realistic than the originals and I would definitely recommend them for your Gripen.

My thanks go to Master Model for providing this product and to IPMS/USA for the review opportunity.