The latest title in the “Spot On” series published by Mushroom Model Publications focuses on Russia’s Yak-3 during World War II. The Yak-3 began development in the summer of 1942, with its first test flight conducted in early 1942. The plane was based on the Yak-1, with the Yak-1M eventually being replaced in production by the Yak-3 in March 1944. By 1946, approximately 4,800 of the aircraft had been built and the fighter distinguished itself as a fast and easy plane to fly, that was well suited for Russian operations in the late war.

The book features 40 full color profiles of planes flown by some of Russia’s top aces. Each profile includes details about the colors used on the plane, up close color images of any special emblems are also included with each plane. Slogans are translated into English, and each plane’s description shows the pilot who flew the plane, as well as the pilot’s unit. In addition to Russian pilots, the book also has color profiles for planes flown by the Polish Airforce, the Yugoslavian Airforce, the Soviet Airforce acrobatic team, as well as the French Normandie-Niemen Regiment.

The color profiles were all completed by the book’s author, Artur Juszczak, and are really fantastic. The details and colors look awesome. The worst thing about the book is that it’s going to make you want to buy 40 Yak-3 kits, so you can complete one for each profile. I highly recommend this book.

Thank you Mushroom Model Publications for the review copy, and to IPMS/USA for the opportunity to review it.