Plans have become a staple amongst modelers and enthusiasts over the last decade or so. Kagero has been on company that has embraced this trend with a now rather extensive catalog of books that focus on this aspect of the hobby.

This particular book is part of their Top Drawings series that has become very popular with modelers. The subject this time around is the He-219 'Uhu. This is an aircraft that was quite effective, but had a long gestation period. It was originally to be a long range reconnaissance aircraft, but was later decided to be a heavy fighter. As that aircraft type was not as successful as hoped, it was finally decided to make it a night fighter. This was because Kammhuber, the head of the Luftwaffe's night fighters, was looking for a replacement for the Bf-110s and Ju-88s along with some other ex-bomber types that were filling this role. It was a good choice as the 219 was fast, heavily armed, and able to stay in the air for a long time without needing drop tanks. Interestingly, though over 270 were built, there was never an official contract for the aircraft as the head of the Luftwaffe's aircraft production, Milch, did not like Heinkel. It was Milch who stifled all of Heinkel's 'non-bomber' programs such as the He-112 and He-280 once he came to power.

Typical of the series, when it comes to aircraft you get drawings in all the major scales. The 1/72 drawings are in the book and cover all the different variants and test aircraft. Due to the size of the 1/48 and 1/32 plans, those are provided in three, huge fold-outs that are included in the center of the book. You are also provided with a couple of profiles and a four view in full color.

A very nice addition to a popular series.

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