[Epapazian]

This is a big bird, even in 1:144th scale.

Overall, I am pleased with the JU-290. It has a good degree of detail, though not as much as I've seen on other models in this series. Also, the camouflage and pad printed insignias, lettering, etc. are acceptable.

On the negative side, a number of assembly and QC issues were found. While this will undoubtedly not be the case on other Altaya JU-290s, my model has slightly wobbly main wings---something I noticed on the Halifax, but not the Emily, Cant Z 1007, HE-177 or B-17. In addition, there was a major glue blob where one wing was joined to the fuselage and the tail was installed incorrectly, with one side angled upwards to a far greater degree than the other. Finally, there were some fit issues and a few places where the paint was scratched.

As can be seen in the accompanying picture, I fixed the tail and glue blob problems and added a number of enhancements, such as glossy midnight blue side windows rather than the light gray that was provided. I recommend this model to anyone who is looking to add interesting and out of the ordinary WW II warbirds to their collection. Be warned, however. You may encounter some of the problems I faced and if you are unwilling to make fairly basic "corrections", think twice before buying.