VAMI Models 1/72nd Caudron R.11 By Eric Gallaud

Introduction

I heard of this brand and kit very recently on the WWI Modeling Page. A Caudron R.11 ???!!! Immediately, I tried to contact the owner in Belgium and received a quick answer : it is really a Caudron R11 in 1/72. I ordered one and a few days after, I received my packet.

History

In 1917, the bomber units need protection to ensure their missions. It is why the long-range escort fighter R.11 is created, designed by Paul Deville. The three-seater R.11 is a plane very easy to handle, able to protect the bombers, flying around them like "real guard dog".

It is fitted with 4 machine-guns (2 twins in front position, the 2 other, behind the pilot), a fifth one could be added under the fuselage.

The 1st of January 1918, there were 2 R.11, 3 month after, 34 and 370 at the Armistice (54 at the front line).

References

Les Avions Caudron, Vol 1, Histoire de l'aviation n°11 (in French), LELA Presse edition

French Aircraft of the First World War, FMP edition

The Kit

The kit is moulded in a tan resin, with lots of flash. The details of the wings are good and they match well in shape with the drawing provided in the FMP book "French Aircraft of the First World War" and have the right dimension according to the data provided in "Les Avions Caudron".

The exterior of the fuselage is well moulded, may be a little bit soft regarding the fuselage ribs. The shape match very well the drawing of the FMP book. On the other hand, the fuselage walls are very thick and will need a lot of thinning if you want to represent something of the inside.

The engine nacelles are good in shape but need some more details, i.e. the ribs at the rear.

The other parts have various levels of quality. I will keep the wheels, the undercarriage, the exhaust pipes, the radiators, the seat, the control wheel and the propellers. I will scratchbuild all of the struts, as usual in resin (I am too afraid that they could bend). I will also replace the machine-guns and rings with aftermarket parts.

Conclusion

This kit is a very interesting addition to a WW1 planes collection. It requires some work, it cannot be considered as a beginner kit. However, it is good in shape and has few bubbles.

It is provided without decals but the generic markings can be found in the Americal Gryphon range. For the specific one, I will have to print my own. I took some pictures of insignia in "Le Musee de l'air du Bourget".

All in all, this is a good kit, as far I can judge before the building process.