Military Model Scene

Title:  Russian Aviation Colours Vol 4, Camouflage & Markings, 'Against Soviets'

Author: Marat Khairulin

Publisher:  MMP

ISBN:  978-83-65281-98-2

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This 128-page hardcover book from MMP, vol 4 in a series, looks at Camouflage and Markings used 'Against Soviets' during/following the revolutionary period. The book is divided across 6 main sections, three of which are then further sub-divided. The main sections are Aviation  of the Armed Forces in the South of Russia; Aviation of the Russian Army; of the North Western Army; of the Western Volunteer Army; of the White Forces in the North of Russia; and of the White Forces in the East of Russia.

For each section we get the historical background with the addition of supportive archive material including recorded memories of some who served there and copies of various orders and reports.  Supporting all this are some fascinating archive photos along with a large number of excellent colour profile artwork on such a marvellous mix of aircraft from the period, including specific markings and badges.

I enjoy reading well researched material on a topic I know nothing about beforehand, and supported with modern colour artwork to help bring it to life.  The mix of aircraft types in use in these regions at the time came as a real surprise to me, and I can easily imagine this being a great inspiration for modellers who will find some interesting colours and marking schemes for aircraft they may know well.  Aircraft types from England, France and Germany are all featured, including a few that were new to me. Seaplanes and flying boats all appear alongside the monoplanes and biplanes.  Certainly one I'd recommend for any modeller with an interest in the aircraft of the WW1 era just as much as for the aviation historian.

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Thanks to MMP Books, who kindly provided my review copy.

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Robin