Pre-order - Eduard 2156 - 1:72 Erka / MiG-21R Czechoslovak, Czech, and Slovak air forces - Limited Edition

1:72 scale plastic model kit of the MiG-21R reconnaissance aircraft – Limited Edition

Eduard 2156 is a limited edition model of the MiG-21R reconnaissance fighter (factory designation: product 94R) designed to replicate aircraft serving in the Czechoslovak Air Force, and after 1993 – in the Czech and Slovak Air Forces. The MiG-21R was a tactical reconnaissance variant of the legendary fighter, equipped with a set of interchangeable pods containing cameras and electronic equipment mounted under the fuselage.

The kit includes Eduard’s own highly detailed sprues, pre-painted photo-etched parts (PE) ready for assembly without the need for additional painting, painting masks to facilitate sharp edges, and as many as 9 aircraft marking options. A unique bonus is an illustrated historical album on the service of the MiG-21R in the Czechoslovak and subsequent air forces, written by expert Martin Janoušek—a valuable resource regardless of whether you build the model.

The kit includes:

• Eduard plastic sprues with fuselage, wing, and accessory parts
• Transparent sprues with the canopy and other clear parts
• Pre-painted photo-etched parts (pre-painted PE)
• Paint masks (cockpit, wheels)
• A sheet of water-slide decals for 9 marking variants
• Illustrated book on the service history of the MiG-21R by Martin Janoušek
• Illustrated assembly instructions with color diagrams

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:72
• Catalog number: 2156
• Manufacturer: Eduard (Czech Republic)
• Model length after assembly: approx. 187 mm
• Wingspan: approx. 99 mm
• Difficulty level: intermediate/advanced

Note: The kit does not include glue, paints, or modeling tools. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Model construction:

The kit is intended for modelers with at least intermediate experience. Pre-painted photo-etched parts significantly simplify working with PE—simply cut them out and glue them in place without separate painting. Painting masks make it easier to achieve precise color separation lines and to mask the canopy. Before applying decals, it is recommended to coat the model with a clear satin or gloss varnish.

Czechoslovak MiG-21Rs were painted using NATO Air Superiority Gray schemes and distinctive Czechoslovak two- and three-color Cold War-era camouflage (green, olive, light blue underside). Czech and Slovak aircraft were operated in various schemes after 1993 until they were retired from service. The 9 marking options included in the kit cover the entire service history of these aircraft.

Essential tools:

• Model-making nippers
• Model-making knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper
• Plastic glue (e.g., Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Cyanoacrylate glue (CA) for photo-etched parts
• Brushes of various sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Clear coat (satin or gloss for decals)
• Model wash for highlighting details

About the aircraft – MiG-21R:

The MiG-21R (product 94R, NATO codename “Fishbed-H”) is a tactical reconnaissance variant of the MiG-21 fighter, developed in the USSR and produced since 1965. It is distinguished by a built-in bay under the center wing, in which interchangeable reconnaissance pods are mounted: photographic (D or R with AFA cameras), electronic, or thermal. The MiG-21R retained its armament in the form of a cannon and the ability to carry R-3S missiles for self-defense, combining reconnaissance functions with limited air combat capability.

Czechoslovakia was one of the main operators of the MiG-21R outside the USSR—the aircraft entered service with the Czechoslovak Air Force in the 1960s and flew continuously for several decades. Following the peaceful division of Czechoslovakia in 1993, the aircraft were divided between the Czech Air Force and the Slovak Air Force, where they served until they were retired. The history of these aircraft is documented in detail in the album included with the set.

Technical specifications of the original (MiG-21R):

• Length: approx. 13.46 m (without pitot probe)
• Wingspan: 7.154 m
• Height: 4.125 m
• Takeoff weight: approx. 9,800 kg
• Crew: 1 pilot
• Armament: 23 mm GSz-23L cannon, R-3S rockets for self-defense; reconnaissance pods
• Powerplant: Tumansky R-11F2S-300 turbojet engine, thrust approx. 60 kN (with afterburner)
• Maximum speed: approx. Mach 2.1 (approx. 2,230 km/h) at altitude
• Range: approx. 1,160 km
• Service ceiling: approx. 15,250 m

About the manufacturer – Eduard:

Eduard Model Accessories is a Czech model kit company founded in 1989 in Obrnice near Most, initially specializing in photo-etched sets for plastic models. Over time, Eduard has developed a full range of its own plastic aircraft models, primarily World War II fighters and Cold War-era jets. The company is particularly valued for its exceptionally precise injection molds and a wide selection of limited editions dedicated to Czechoslovak and Central European aviation—a subject close to their headquarters. Eduard’s pre-painted photo-etched parts are one of the recognizable elements that set the brand apart from the competition. Eduard is one of the leading European manufacturers of aircraft models in 1:72 and 1:48 scales.