PH Model 1/72nd Resin Su-2 M-88B Conversion for the ICM Su-2 M-88 Kit

There were three main versions of the Sukhoi Su-2 "Shturmovik". The version the ICM 1/72nd kit makes out of the box is the M-88. The other two main versions are the M-82 and the M-88B (the focus of this conversion). All designations refer to the engine type; in other words the M-88 engine, the M-88B engine and the M-82 engine. All external differences between these three rested primarily in the engine, cowl, spinner and oil cooler intake. There was also another difference that appeared on the M-88B machine. The earlier M-88B had the the TSS-1 gun mount and this conversion allows the option of adding the TSS-1 by including a separate resin turtledeck (if you want to mount the canopies open) and also includes the different turtledeck on the vac canopies (for mounting the canopies closed).

I have included images of the original ICM Su-2 M-88 next to an ICM Su-2 with the PH Model M-88B conversion. The resin is extremely well cast and I could only find one air bubble in the pour block - which is meant to be removed - attached to the cowl. The only complaint I can make about this set is the cowl is a little thick and will need to be thinned from the inside by using a Dremel. I've already done this and it took me fifteen minutes - a very short time. Highly recommended.

Unfortunately I can't find this conversion anywhere outside of the Czech Republic, and tracking it down even within the Czech Republic is difficult. If PH Model would increase their distribution they would no doubt sell a lot. I'm tracking down the M-82 conversion and when I get it I will also provide a review of it.