The Fokker Dr.I was basically a response to the Sopwith Triplane. The major benefit of the three wings was a pretty impressive climb rate and maneuverability, thanks to the lift from the extra wing. However, the price paid was in speed, and in the case of the Fokker, in construction. Quality Assurance was not very good at the Fokker factory and often substandard construction caused in-flight failure. This was not good as parachutes were not a common item carried by WWI pilots.

Had it not been for Manfred von Richthofen, the design would not have assumed the prominence it does in the mind of the public, however, it was used with great success by the Red Baron, so has been indelibly etched into our cultural consciousness.

This isn't the first kit of the the Fokker Dr.I and probably won't be the last, however, it is one of the best. Those who build these aircraft have told me about the kit and all have provided rave input. Is it better than the Eduard kit? Hard to say as I have never built either one, but this one looks darn good. Didn't see any ejector pin marks that would be a problem, though there was some flash on a number of the parts.

Some of the pluses for this kit are separate ailerons and different propellers. The separate ailerons and props are because there were small differences in the production run. The kit itself is about as complete as these tiny planes can get with a full interior that includes some sidewall framework. Probably the fiddliest part of the kit will be the landing gear as all four struts are separate.

Instructions are more than adequate and include six different aircraft, including one flown by the Red Baron. There are several in overall colors and several in the streaky green fabric that was so common with the Dr.I The decals themselves are very thin and well printed, though they are basically just black and white. As you can see, there are a multiplicity of insignia markings to use. If they don't work well, there are a number of aftermarket decals available for the 1/72 Fokker Dr.I.

I can't think of any 1/72 WWI enthusiast that wouldn't be pleased with this kit. Construction is straight-forward, there isn't much rigging (Yay!!), and it is several dollars less expensive than the Eduard version.

Review kit courtesy of me and my wallet!

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