This next edition of MMP's Singles series is on the Avia S-199. This aircraft came about as when WWII ended, Czechoslovakia continued building the Bf-109 for use in their Air Force under the S-99 designation. However, the Daimler Benz engines ran out so it was decided to use the Junkers Jumo engine in its place. This engine was not designed for fighters and while it put out sufficient power, it required a large, paddle-blade propellor. This combination caused an issue upon initial application of power and made the plane a real beast while on the ground. It also made the plane a bit of a handful in the air, and as such, earned the plane the name of 'The Mule'. However it provided good service in Czechoslovakia until replaced by Soviet-mandated aircraft. A fair number were sold to the new nation of Israel who used them in combat.

In line with the other releases, this one is in the large A4 size with several distinct sections. There is no history of the type, but there are superbly done plans in both 1/48 and 1/72 scale. Because of the size of the plans, there are no fuselage cross sections that are in other editions. The book includes a goodly number of photos showing both the entire aircraft and some details, thanks to those that are in museums. The book finishes up with large, full page color views of an Israeli variant, which doesn't have the later canopy used on most Czech examples. 

It is another great addition to the MMP family of books that offers all that both the modeler and the enthusiast are seeking in a plans/detail book on a specific aircraft without going into a ton of detail. I found it be well done and one that I can highly recommend to you.

June 2021

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