Mi-4 in Detail

The vast rugged terrain of the Soviet Union was made for the helicopter (as Peter Ustinov says in the various "Wings over the Red Star" episodes). Observing the west's development and use of the helicopter, the Mil OKB was tasked with developing such a capability for the Soviet Union as well.

After turning out the Mi-1, which was roughly equivalent to the Bell 47 series of utility helicopters, a helicopter was commissioned that could carry 12 people or the GAZ-69 (jeep) or equivalent payloads. The Mi-4 was designed, similar in configuration to the Sikorsky S-55 and powered by the Ash-82 engine (the same powerplant of the La-5 and La-7 fighters).

The Mi-4 was a huge success and was produced between 1953 and 1966, with over 3200 aircraft build, over 700 of which were exported to more than 30 countries around the world.

The authors have collected a significant number of nice color photographs of the Mi-4 and these photos look into the various nooks and crannies of the helicopter in that style that Wings and Wheels Press is famous for. Detailed examinations of the airframe, engine, cockpit, cargo compartment, tail boom rotor and transmission and tail rotor are examined. Even the gunner's gondola under the fuselage and the external armament loads are given a good look.

If you have the Trumpeter 1/35 Mi-4 kit and have been reluctant to embark on the project without some decent references, your wait is over. Some of the color recommendations in the instructions were suspect, so I found myself setting my own Hound aside until a good reference was available.

This is an excellent title to add to your collection, especially if you follow Soviet aviation.

Definitely recommended!