Beginning in 1933, a Soviet Union design team lead by N. Polikarpov began work on the development of a new low wing fighter at the "Central Design Bureau".  This design included a wood fuselage, metal wings, retractable main landing gear and a 480 horsepower radial engine.  Despite the fact that the handling of the aircraft was tricky, the I 16 fighter gained favor as its overall performance and design was considered advanced for the mid 1930s.  The manufacturing of the I-16 began in 1935 and continued until 1939 at which point about 7,000 units had been produced. Later, after Germany's invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941, manufacturing resumed and by the time it ceased a second time in favor of more modern designs, thousands of additional aircraft of all types were produced.  This 54 piece I-16 type 24 scaled model includes the following features: 1) Authentic markings for an aircraft flown by "Hero of Soviet Union" Captain B. Safonov (25 victories), 72 SAP (Fighter Regiment), Northern Fleet Air Force, Summer 1941; 2) Clear plastic windscreen; 3) Detailed cockpit; 4) Detailed Radial engine; 5) Main landing gear can be built in the extend or retracted position; 6) Recessed panel lines; 7) Simulated wood covered fuselage; 8) Painting guide in color and 9) Illustrated assembly instructions.  The box is in new condition.  Never started and factory sealed.