Revell Antonov AN-225 Mrija

Those aerophiles amongst us will probably already know that the Antonov An-225 Mriya (‘dream’ or ‘inspiration’) is a strategic airlift cargo aircraft, designed by the Antonov Design Bureau in the Ukrainian SSR within the Soviet Union in the 1980s.

Powered by six turbofan engines it is the heaviest aircraft ever built and has a maximum take-off weight of 640 tonnes. On top of that claim to fame it also has the largest wingspan of any aircraft in operational service, the Antonov An-225 was an enlargement of the successful Antonov An-124 which was built for transporting the Buran spaceplane, the only An-225 airplane was completed in 1988. After successfully fulfilling its Soviet military missions, put in storage for eight years, it was then refurbished and is now in commercial operation with Antonov Airlines carrying oversized payloads. With world records for an airlifted single-item payload of 189,980 kilograms and an airlifted total payload of 253,820 kg it makes for a unique and interesting aircraft.

Revell have produced the Antonov AN-225 Mrija model with a 1:144 scale, ideal for aeroplane and model enthusiasts alike, it is best suited for ages 14+ and consists of 203 individual parts. Measuring up at 583 mm with a 614 mm wingspan there are clear building instructions that can be found in the Downloadcenter and are also included in the kit, all the parts have high quality moulding with the majority being durable, some of the thinner pieces are a little more fragile so a degree of care is needed.

The instructions are easy to follow but doesn’t take away the skill needed to construct this aircraft, all the paints and glue will need to be purchased separately. This kit builds into an imposing and accurate replica of this impressive aircraft, entertaining to construct and an exciting addition to any model collection. €109

Click here for more info