ICM 72051 I-1(IL-400b) First Soviet Fighter 1/72 – Plastic Model Kit

ICM 72051 I-1(IL-400b) First Soviet Fighter (1/72) is a highly detailed plastic model kit representing the first fighter aircraft designed and produced in the USSR after the October Revolution. The model comes in the popular 1:72 scale, allowing you to create a collector’s replica of a historically significant aircraft from the birth of Soviet military aviation. It is intended for modeling enthusiasts interested in aviation history and the development of military technologies in the 20th century.

• Scale: 1:72
• Country of origin: Soviet Union
• Material: high-quality plastic (polystyrene)
• Category: plastic model kit
• Extras: the set does not include glue or paints – required separately
• Difficulty level: 2/5 (suitable for intermediate modelers)

Historical Background and Usage

The I-1 aircraft (also designated as IL-400b) was the first fighter created in the USSR after the end of World War I. Its designer was the renowned engineer Nikolai Polikarpov – later the creator of the famous I series and Po-2 aircraft. The IL-400b had its maiden flight in 1923 and was intended to replace the outdated machines inherited from the Tsarist Empire and equipment acquired during the civil war. Although the I-1 did not take part in combat, it was mainly used as a prototype for testing monoplane and biplane constructions and for the development of aircraft armaments in the interwar period.

The IL-400b initiated the dynamic development of Soviet military aviation, which in the following years would play a crucial role on the fronts of World War II. This model will make a perfect addition to the collection of any aviation history enthusiast or collector of Soviet designs from bygone eras.

Details and Recommendation

The ICM 72051 model stands out with its accurate reproduction of the fuselage, wings, and landing gear details. Given the moderate difficulty level, we recommend it to both intermediate modelers and ambitious beginners who want to try their hand at building historical fighters. It's an excellent choice as a gift or to complement a collection of interwar vehicles. Thanks to precise parts and a clear instruction manual, assembling the model is a satisfying modeling challenge.