1/24 Airfix Ju-87-B Stuka

Gallery Article by Angelo M Picardo on Aug 23 2011

 

This model of the infamous STUKA was built from the excellent Airfix 24th scale kit. There is so much potential in this model that the only problem that exists is where to stop!
 
I added most of the detail to the cockpit using wire, plastic card, solder, and lead sheet. The only after market items I used were etched seat belts from Eduard, and an instrument panel and cockpit placards from the excellent Airscale range.
The basic detail was just enhanced, I only replaced the gunner's back rest with one made from lead sheet, which was also used to replace the carrying straps on the ammunition drums.
 
The engine was detailed with various gauges of wire and I replaced the solid plastic fuel filters with ones made from clear sprue.

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I painted the model with enamels from XtraColor for the RLM 70, 71, & 65. For the RLM 79 sand I used Tamiya acrylic.

The model is in the markings of 5./St.G.2, based in North Africa in September 1941.

The distinctive snake was applied using a mask from Montex. They also supply the rest of the kits markings as masks, but I used the kits decals.

I weathered the finish fairly heavily as the harsh environment these machines served in did take its toll on the paint.

Various washes were applied and I airbrushed lightened tones of the colours on the panels to give a faded appearance. Chipping was achieved using a silver pencil.

I have always liked the Stuka and the desert camouflaged on with the snake has always been a favourite since I first saw the Revell 32nd scale model in the snake markings.

Angelo M Picardo

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Photos and text © by Angelo M Picardo