JC Wings 1:72 Royal Malaysian Air Force TUDM 53rd Smokey Bandit MIG-29N Fulcrum M43-03

The MiG-29N Fulcrum used to be one of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) aircraft inventory before being stored in 2017. The story started in 1994, post-Cold War era. Back then, Malaysia under leadership of prime minister Dr. Mahathir, placed an order for 18 MiG-29 jet fighters from Russia. It was to fill the lack of air superiority as their small neighbour, Singapore acquired several advanced F-16 jet fighters from USA beginning from 1988. It was a highly unsual and controversial move, since Malaysia before this had been usual customer West bloc in weapon systems, particular from the United States such as F-5E Tiger and the A-4 Skyhawk. Before collapse of USSR, the MiG-29 was only available to countries that were part of the Soviet Bloc or have good diplomatic relation with Moscow such as North Korea or India. The MiG-29 was selected from shortlist of fighter jet that include F-16, F-18, Mirage 2000 and Rafale. It was choosen mainly for its low flyaway cost, which analysts said can be one third to one half less than its American or European counterparts. The Malaysians also seemed to believe that the MiG-29 was the most capable and versatile fighter that can fill the lack of  air superiority at that time.Another reason is, RMAF purchase MIG-29 when USA decline the approve to sale AMRAAM missiles to RMAF as part of the Boeing F-18D Hornet purchase package. Russia instead offer modern armament package including 2xR-27R1 missiles and 4xR-73E and BVR likeAMRAAM and this radar system provide ability to launch Russian BVR missiles R-77. Aircraft shipment began in 1992. Currently all RMAF MiG-29N were stored as active storage and waiting to be replace with new aircraft.

The model was produce by JC Wings as part of collaboration with local dealer, My Hobby House. It was release in 2018. The model mould was actually produce by Witty Wings. I read some post on Diecast Aircraft Forum that say due to some issues, Witty Wings went bankrupt and JCW bought over their mould and started to produce models under JC Wings brand. JC Wings produce 2 variant. The model is in 53 Smokey Bandits livery, one of RMAF aerobatic teams. The other variant is in 17 Squadron Bat Colors. I bought the Smokey Bandits livery because I love the  Malaysia flag art on the MiG tail. Since it was my first true 1:72 diecast aircraft model, I have nothing to critic. I love the detailing  on the aircraft such as the panel lines, antenna and the pitot tube. They livery also seem nicely print using pad printing method, not like decal, which easily peel off. The rollable landing gear come into 2 option, retracted or extended.There are several moving part like opening canopy, the position of speedbrake and position of rudder. The refuelling probe also come in 2 option,extended or retracted. This model come with air intake cover if you want to keep your plane in museum #jk. Beside that, the armaments of the aircraft such as AAM and fuel tank is detachable. I bought this model from My Hobby House. They still have stock for both variant at the time I write this article.I would like highly recommend to everyone and hope that JC Wings can improve their model and produce more model in RMAF livery.

The packaging:

The model come with nice flip box. The art on the box is very nice,featuring Malaysia flag and the squadron logo.Inside the box, you get the information about the history of RMAF and MiG-29.The aircraft is enclosed with plastic case. The armament of the aircraft is nicely packaged in plastic tray. You also received the model aircraft information card with serial number of the model, as this model is one time production only. Mine is 208/600. Instruction also included for installation of the armaments,landing gear and how to configure for landing or inflight position. Part like landing gear cover, refuelling probe and air intake cover is keep in small plastic.