After two years, the Yak-1b returns to the Arma Hobby lineup. It’s a kit you loved to build – thanks to its refined engineering and realistic surface detail, from metal panels to fabric areas. It was pure building enjoyment. That’s why it’s back. Even better than before.
Yak-1b plastic parts
When first released in 2019, the kit stood out for its high-quality surface detail. Let’s take a look at how it holds up today.
An aircraft of real historical importance
The Yak-1b was one of the key Soviet fighter aircraft of World War II. It took part in the most important battles of the Eastern Front – Stalingrad and the Battle of Kursk, where its performance allowed it to effectively engage German fighters.
Many outstanding pilots flew the Yak-1 and Yak-1b. Among them were Boris Yeremin and Lydia Litvyak – one of the most famous female fighter pilots in history.
The aircraft also played an important role outside the Soviet Union. It was operated by the French “Normandie” squadron, which fought on the Eastern Front, including during the Battle of Kursk, as well as by the Yugoslav Air Force.
Jak-1b – w lotnictwach sprzymierzonych – malowanie i oznakowanie
The Polish story – first combat flight over the bridgehead
The Yak-1b also holds a special place in Polish aviation history. It was used by the 1st Polish Fighter Aviation Regiment “Warszawa”, a unit formed in the Soviet Union and operating under Soviet command – distinct from the Polish Air Force units serving in the RAF in the West.
Flying aircraft number 4, W/O Edward Chromy carried out the first combat flight over the Warka–Magnuszew bridgehead in August 1944. This date was later established as Polish Aviation Day.
New edition – what’s changed?
It’s not easy to improve a kit that was already very good. Still, we introduced two meaningful upgrades. The first is Cartograf decals – widely regarded as some of the best model decals currently available.
The second is a new canopy. In the first edition, only a closed version was available – at the time, we were not yet able to design an open canopy to the standard we were aiming for.
With our recent releases, you’ve seen what our new clear parts can deliver – thin, crystal-clear and precisely fitting. In this new Yak-1b edition, you now have a choice:
- a one-piece closed canopy,
- a three-part open canopy that fits naturally on the model.
Arma Hobby Jig – small addition, big difference
Alongside the new canopy, we include the Arma Hobby Jig – a simple base that helps you set the correct landing gear geometry.
With the use of standard rubber bands, it can also be used for safe transport of the model once mounted inside a transport box.
It’s a practical solution you’ll especially appreciate during final assembly and handling.
A return that makes sense
If you’ve already built the Yak-1b – you know what to expect. If not, this remains one of the most builder-friendly kits in this scale, now even better. The Yak-1b is back – and still a joy to build.
Are you ready for the Yak?
Order now in the Arma Hobby store. During the preorder, you can choose versions with White Stork Miniatures figures or with 3D accessories – either ready-made or as a downloadable file.
Order in the Arma Hobby store: click here
Modeller happy enough to work in his hobby. Seems to be a quiet Aspie but you were warned. Enjoys talking about modelling, conspiracy theories, Grand Duchy of Lithuania and internet marketing. Co-founder of Arma Hobby. Builds and paints figurines, aeroplane and armour kits, mostly Polish subject and naval aviation.
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