Su-30SM/SM2

KH 1:48 Su-30SM2 ground display with weaps and GSE
Calling this one complete: Kitty Hawk 1/48 Su-30SM converted to SM2 configuration w/Ru Federation Navy (Baltic Fleet). Configured for self-escorted Anti-Shipping misdion w/2xKh-31a (NATO: AS-17 Krypton)supersonic ASCMs, 2xR-74M (AA-11 Archer), 1x ea R-27ET (AA-10 Alamo D) and R-27ER (Alamo C). Also present are adfitional anti-shipping missiles: 2x Kh-59 (AS-18 Kazoo) - (starboard side) and 2x Kh-35 (AS-20 Kayak) (port) and an additional set of AAMs: 2x R-77 (AA-12 Adder). Built mostly OOB with kit supplied resin and PE. Added Reskit main and nose gear (had Added missiles and pylons from Kitty Hawk, GSE from Kitty Hawk. Airbrushed with Hataka Red Modern Rusdian set, Alclad metallics, MMP and Vallejo (details)nand Quinta cockpit 3D decals. Finished with kit provided and Begemont decals and Alclad clear matte, semi-matte and semi-luster. Weathered with oils and MiG Ammo acrylics. Updated to SM2 standard using public release information and imagery/video.
Some thoughts about this build. Purchased same day KH announced going out of business and on a hunch, also grabbed the missile and ground support kits as well. Good thing as the Su-30SM came with 2xR73s and no pylons or adapters for anything else. Having been spoiled by Hobby Boss and Trumpeter being very generous with their weapons fitment I was disappointed, given the price of the kit. Both engines well detailed and could easily be displayed out of kit with some additional plumbing added. As is, you could display the 2x access panels open but with most of detail hidden. Cockpit average for the genre with kit supplied decals - Quinta 3D decals a good choice. Fit on par with most KH kits I’ve experienced - ok with a couple of problem areas (see earlier posts) but directions had parts reversed or less than clear how/where things go. You absolutely must dry fit and research this bird as much as possible, from configuration to painting. Do *not* use the kit guide for RFN camo scheme - it uses RFAF new scheme improperly (eggplant grey top/all light sky blue undersides vs RFN tri-color). Fortunately had retained guide from the 1/72 Su-30SM completed a couple weeks ago and used that. B/L, not for the beginner or faint of heart but with some effort and moderate skills builds into a nice representation.