Eduard EX615 - 1:48 MiG-23MF/ML Tface masks

Eduard EX615 mask set – canopy painting masks for the MiG-23MF/ML model (Eduard) in 1:48 scale

Eduard EX615 is a set of self-adhesive 1:48 masks for painting the canopy framing and other glazing, and the wheel hubs, tailored to the MiG-23MF/ML model from Eduard. The masks are die-cut from yellow Kabuki masking paper, giving sharp edges without hand masking with tape. The base kit is not included. The TFace version includes masks for both the exterior and interior of the glazing.

What's in the box:

• Sheet of self-adhesive masks made of yellow Kabuki masking paper in the TFace version – separate masks for the exterior and interior of the glazing, plus wheel hub masks
• Mask placement instructions

Set specifications:

• Scale: 1:48
• Catalogue number: EX615
• Manufacturer: Eduard
• Dedicated kit: MiG-23MF/ML from Eduard
• Accessory type: canopy painting masks (TFace version)
• Material: yellow Kabuki masking paper, machine-cut

Self-adhesive painting masks – crisp canopy frame edges

Eduard masks are self-adhesive stencils die-cut from low-tack yellow Kabuki masking paper suited to delicate model surfaces. They cover the clear areas of the glazing and leave only the canopy framing exposed, so that after airbrushing you get sharp, even frame edges – hard to achieve when masking by hand with tape.

The recommended method is to apply the masks to clean, degreased glazing, press the edges down firmly and then airbrush the paint. Once the paint has dried, the masks are removed. The masks are intended for single use and should not be left on the model for a long time.

About the aircraft – Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23 (MiG-23ML), NATO Flogger:

The MiG-23 is a Soviet variable-geometry fighter developed by the Mikoyan OKB as a successor to the MiG-21, emphasising greater radar detection range, medium-range missile armament and improved takeoff and landing performance. First flown in 1967, it entered service in the early 1970s. The late-1970s MiG-23ML was a thoroughly upgraded fighter version with a lighter airframe, more powerful R-35 engine and a new radar.

The MiG-23 was widely exported and saw heavy combat use, notably by Syria, Iraq and Libya in Middle Eastern conflicts and in the Iran-Iraq War. Many variants were produced: the MiG-23M/MF/ML/MLA/MLD fighters and the MiG-23BN fighter-bomber that led to the MiG-27. Around 5,000 examples of all versions were built.

Original specifications (Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23 (MiG-23ML), NATO Flogger):

• Length: approx. 16.7 m (approx. 17.3 m with pitot)
• Wingspan: 13.97 m (spread) / 7.78 m (swept)
• Height: approx. 4.82 m
• Empty weight: approx. 10,200 kg
• Max takeoff weight: approx. 18,000 kg
• Crew: 1
• Powerplant: 1 x Tumansky R-35-300 afterburning turbojet, approx. 127 kN with afterburner
• Max speed: approx. 2,500 km/h (Mach 2.35)
• Ceiling: approx. 18,500 m
• Range: approx. 1,150 km (combat), up to approx. 2,300 km with drop tanks
• Armament: GSh-23L 23 mm cannon; R-23/R-24 and R-60 missiles; bombs and rockets
• Production: MiG-23ML approx. 1976-1981

About the manufacturer – Eduard:

Eduard is a Czech manufacturer of scale model kits and modelling accessories, established in 1989 and based in Obrnice. The company is widely recognised among aircraft modellers for its own 1:48 and 1:72 kits and for an extensive range of upgrade accessories: photo-etched parts, Brassin resin components, decals and painting masks. Eduard masks are die-cut from yellow Kabuki masking paper and designed for specific plastic kits, ensuring an accurate fit to the shape of the canopy and other details. The EX mask series covers hundreds of items dedicated both to Eduard kits and to kits from other manufacturers.