In over 40 years of modelling, I think I can honestly say I've never come across a resin figure of a Chinese fighter pilot - until now, that is! Fairy Hobby, a new name in the business, have changed all that with the release of an excellent 1:48 figure depicting a PLA pilot from the 1960s.

The figure is cast as one piece in grey resin and arrives in a very solid clear blister pack, along with a detailed painting guide. The casting in the review sample is basically perfect, with just a whisper of flash to clean off, and the level of detail is superb. The figure is posed as if leaning on a boarding ladder (not included), and wears an interesting mix of quite modern and "vintage" flight gear - i.e. a reasonably contemporary flight suit, combined with almost '40s-style flying helmet, goggles and boots.

Western Modellers might struggle to find suitable references for such an outfit, so it's great that Fairy Model have included a full-colour painting guide with English descriptions included in the multi-lingual instructions.

Fairy Hobby do not yet have a website, so please contact them via e-mail at the following address: [email protected]

Conclusion

This is a beautifully detailed figure that will be the perfect accompaniment for subjects like the Shenyang J-5 and J-6. Highly recommended.