Meng Model mPLANE-008 - 1:Egg PLA Navy J-15 Flying Shark Carrier-Based Fighter

Model of the Chinese J-15 Flying Shark carrier fighter in the Egg caricature series

Meng mPLANE-008 is a model of the J-15 Flying Shark carrier fighter of the Chinese Navy, rendered in the distinctive style of the Egg series. The short, chubby fuselage and oversized canopy are deliberate caricature - yet the shape remains instantly recognisable, with canards, twin tails and arrestor hook all present.

The kit is snap-fit and needs no glue, making it a good entry point for newcomers to the hobby and a quick project for experienced modellers looking for a break from large kits. The folding wings - a feature typical of carrier aircraft, saving space in the hangar deck - are reproduced. A figure of a deck shooter in the characteristic launch-signal pose is included.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with the aircraft parts
• Folding wings
• Deck shooter figure signalling launch
• Decal sheet
• Illustrated instructions

Kit specifications:

• Scale: Egg series (no scale)
• Catalogue number: mPLANE-008
• Manufacturer: Meng
• Assembly: snap-fit, no glue required
• Skill level: beginner

Note: Paints and modelling tools are not included. This kit requires assembly.

Building the model:

Snap-fit assembly means the model can be built without glue - all you need are sprue cutters and a knife to clean up the gate marks. If you prefer stronger joints, the parts can also be cemented with plastic glue.

The J-15 wears the grey scheme typical of Chinese naval aviation, with lighter undersides. The model can be painted with a brush or an airbrush, and applying decals over a gloss coat reduces the risk of silvering. A satin finish suits the surfaces of a modern combat aircraft.

Tools you will need:

• Sprue cutters
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Sanding paper for cleaning up gate marks
• Brushes in various sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Optional: plastic cement for stronger joints

About the aircraft - Shenyang J-15 Flying Shark:

The Shenyang J-15 Flying Shark is a Chinese carrier-based fighter, the primary combat aircraft aboard the carriers Liaoning and Shandong. The design derives from the Soviet Su-33, an unfinished T-10K-3 prototype of which China obtained from Ukraine and used as the starting point for its own programme, adding indigenous avionics, weapon systems and carrier equipment.

The J-15's first take-off and landing aboard the carrier Liaoning took place in December 2012, a milestone for Chinese naval aviation. Series production began in 2013. The aircraft launches from a ski-jump ramp, which limits take-off weight and weapon load compared with catapult-launched aircraft.

Original aircraft specifications (Shenyang J-15):

• Length: 22.28 m
• Wingspan: 14.7 m
• Maximum take-off weight: 33,000 kg
• Crew: 1
• First carrier take-off and landing: December 2012 (Liaoning)
• Series production: from 2013
• Operator: naval aviation of the People's Liberation Army (carriers Liaoning and Shandong)

About the manufacturer - Meng:

Meng is a Chinese model company founded around 2011 and based in Shenzhen. It has established itself as one of the leading producers of 1:35 armour kits, known for very precise moulds and a bold choice of subjects. The catalogue also covers aircraft, 1:700 warships, licensed 1:9 motorcycle kits and the humorous caricature series to which this kit belongs. Egg series models are snap-fit and are popular both as a first kit for children and as a quick, relaxing project for experienced modellers.