Forger model in 1/72 scale
The Yakolev Yak-38, NATO Codename "FORGER", was a VTOL aircraft designed to be operated from the first true Soviet aircraft carriers.
Experience of Yakovlev in the 1960's was used in this plane, with the first YAK-36 FREEHAND...
The Forger was
a first step, testing being done on board of the Kiev carrier. When discovered
in the seventies, it was considered a serious threat for Nato.
Later, it became
obvious that the Forger was a very small, and limited capability aircraft.
Hobbycraft of Canada has issued in the eighties a 1/72 kit no. HC1384 of the "Forger A" and it is not accurate. (Many years later AMODEL issued a much more accurate short-run kit).
Without major re-working, it will not really be accurate, so best to limit the amount of work.
The wing was slightly converted, with and the nose wheel and main undercarriage made much smaller.
One of the bigger problems is the wrong shape of the radar nose and the fuselage.
Also, the undercarriage as supplied
is far too "high" and the wheels are too large.
This was improved with saw work. 
These issues
were corrected as far as possible, using lots of putty and using parts
from the spare box. The cockpit was opened and detailed, the protective
cover on the fwd VTOL engine was fitted with mesh.
Finished as
Yellow "16" of the Soviet Naval Aviation AV-MF
NOTE: many years later better models such as from AModel appeared
- Air international vol 31, page 84
- Yakovlev's V/STOL fighters, Aerofax, USA
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Created January 26, 2001,
Update July 2015