Eduard

Kit Numbers 8100 and 8102

DASSAULT MIRAGE III C and CJ

Reviewed By Ed Kinney, #2989

MSRP: $46.98 USD

Almost immediately on the heels of the release of the CJ comes the new and considerably different C version.  Both are very nicely molded, with nicely recessed panel lines, typical of what we have come to associate with Eduard aircraft.  The differences in the two kits include the various lumps, bumps and scoops and the under wing goodies that differentiate the two.  Both kits include a custom fit nose weight which if drilled out could double as a bass fisherman’s rubber worm sinker.  Also, included in both kits are pre-colored photo etched parts (seat belts, ejection seat pull rings, etc) and pre-cut masks for both the canopy and the red areas on the natural metal versions…NICE TOUCH!  It is my understanding that a “Royal Version” for slightly more money is available in both versions, but both of these are nicely presented “as is”.

As test and tape fitting begins, I feel it needs mentioned that these kits are most probably not for the novice.  First, there are no locating pins, which would make a problem for some, and secondly, the exact location of the cockpit tub seems unclear, which could lead to serious fit problems later in construction.  More on this later as the build continues.

Decal options are beautifully done as follows:

Mirage III CJ – 3 camo and 2 natural metal finish aircraft

  • 101st Tayaset, Yom Kipper War 1973
  • 119th Tayaset, Six Day War 1968
  • 117th Tayaset, 1973
  • 117th Tayaset, 1967
  • 117th Tayaset, 1971

Mirage III C – 3 camo and 2 natural metal finish aircraft

  • # 31, French AirForce, Creil 1978
  • # 87, French AirForce, Vexin Det, Djibouti 1984
  • # 92, French AirForce,  Cazaux 1976
  • # 50 French AirForce,  (Alpes) Colmar 1963
  • # 800, No 2 Sqdn S.A.A.F., Waterkloof AB 1982

Both kits appear to be dead accurate in measurements and shape, and would make an excellent addition to the serious builders “stash”.  Highly recommended.

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