New from MBI in their 'Model File' series is a book covering the Polikarpov U-2/Po-2. This 68 page soft cover book could be considered the definitive reference on the subject and is an absolute must for anyone building the Gavia Po-2. In typical MBI style, the text is presented in a two-column format with the Czech text on the left and the English equivalent on the right. The first 26 pages focus on the history and development of the airframe while the next four pages provide technical details of the Po-2. Then you get to the part which will be most appreciated by modellers, namely the extensive photo coverage of the Po-2's in the Moscow Morino Museum and the Prague-Kbely Military Museum.

It is obvious that MBI appreciates the value of good photos, as they are clear and large with detailed captions. A direct contrast to the postage stamp-sized photos commonly found in an overpriced series of books published by one of the major British modelling magazines, wherein one feels like Gulliver in the land of the Lilliputians. Overall, there are more than 180 photos, 80 of which are in colour. Thirty-four of the photos are period photos, with the remainder devoted to the two museum examples. All of this is complemented by some excellent 1/48 scale line drawings and 17 well-rendered colour profiles along with a page dealing with the camouflage and markings.

I bought my first MBI book about 6 years ago and they have since proven to be some of the best reference books in my library. This new book is no exception and his highly recommended to anyone with an interest in Soviet aviation and specifically to anyone who is going to build a model of the Po-2.

It has a manufacturers suggested retail price of $29.43 ad is worth every penny.

Review sample kindly provided by Sky Grid
Reviewed by Randy Lutz C4650