Command & Conquer real time strategy game was first released in 1995 and quickly became (along with its subsequent releases) one of the best RTS games and games in general of all time. Just a year later, the first of the prequel series was released, named C&C – Red Alert. The story behind the game was an alternate history of Western allies battling Soviet Union over European continent and you could choose either faction. An engaging gameplay, different styles of combat, tactics and strategies depending on the side you chose, made this game a legend. I spent years playing this franchise and had a blast doing it!

Red Alert 2 was released in 2000 and just picked up, where the first game left off. Bringing a lot of new units, one of the most legendary ones was Kirov airship.

“These huge Soviet zeppelins are a true force to contend with in the air. Able to withstand tremendous amounts of damage, a Kirov attacks with massive payloads of heavy bombs. These can devastate an area. Slow speed is the main weakness of this unit.“

Red Alert 2 manual

These units were equally dreaded if you played for the Allies as were sought after, if you played for Soviets. So imagine my surprise, when I’ve seen a model of it released by a company unknown to me – Kaizo. Doing the research I found out, Border model actually makes a few Red Alert models – the Kirov airship in larger scale but also some armor from both the Soviets and Allies.

The kit

My first Kaizo kit, though I might try some of their 1:700 ships in the future. The kit is designed to be a snap-fit with no glue, but I’ve treated it like a normal kit, including the glue, putty and other everyday tools and products of the trade. The fit is rather good making it uncomplicated build. I did cut off the bomb “bay” structure so I could easily paint the bombs and attached it at the end of the build. The kit also comes with Tech Oil Derrick building – one of the essential building units in the game.

The good:
– generally good fit
– addition of PE parts for some details
– relatively low parts count
– good decals

The bad:
– snap-fit nature makes it a bit clunky
– relatively thick plastic

Model Data
Company: Kaizo / KMN0001
Scale: n/a (15cm long)
Aftermarket: 3d designed and printed name plate

Paints used: Mr.Paint
Camouflage:
Metallics:
Other: