1/72 - I.A.R. 80/81 family by IBG Models - I.A.R.80 A & 81C released - new I.A.R.80 B over Stalingrad due this month!

Ahead of a new boxing of the IAR 80 to be released imminently by IBG Models here are some images of Claudio Maura's beautiful rendition of the IAR 80 'Early' release. (Claudio, muito obrigado pelas suas fotos. Desculpe ter demorado tanto tempo para mostrá-las a todos)

The new I.A.R.80 coming this month from IBG is the 'B' variant which was introduced in 1941 to improve firepower against Soviet aircraft. It was equipped with six machine guns (two 13.2 mm and four 7.92 mm Brownings) and later featuring lengthened fuselage and wings. During the Stalingrad campaign, Romanian units equipped with I.A.R.80A, 80B, and 81 aircraft supported Axis operations from forward airfields such as Tusov and Morozovskaya, mainly providing bomber escort and ground attack missions. Harsh winter conditions and the Soviet counteroffensive during Operation Uranus forced Romanian pilots to adapt to freezing temperatures and emergency combat roles. Despite their courage and skill, the I.A.R. units suffered heavy losses and were withdrawn to Romania in early 1943, marking the end of their participation in one of the war’s fiercest battles.

As usual with IBG releases there will be a range of 3D-printed accessories for those wanting extra detail. 

Finally two more views of Claudio's exceptional work on the 'Early' boxing. More on IBG Models IAR 80/81 kits on this blog here and here