Answer – 72043 – PZL TS-8 Bies BII

Description:

Unassembled plastic model kit in 1/72 scale of a Polish TS-8 Bies trainer aircraft.

The PZL TS-8 Bies BII was a Polish two-seat trainer aircraft developed in the 1950s by Tadeusz Sołtyk and produced by PZL-Mielec. Designed to modernize pilot training in the Polish Air Force, it featured an all-metal low-wing monoplane structure with a retractable tricycle landing gear, a significant improvement over the older wooden trainers still in use at the time. Powered by a 260-horsepower PZL WN-3 radial engine, it could reach speeds of around 270 km/h and had a range of approximately 850 km, making it well-suited for both basic and advanced flight instruction.

The BII version introduced refinements in aerodynamics, an improved engine, and updated avionics, enhancing its performance and reliability. Used extensively in Polish military aviation, it remained in service until it was gradually replaced by jet trainers in the 1960s. Today, surviving examples are displayed in aviation museums, serving as a reminder of Poland’s efforts to develop its own aircraft industry during the Cold War era.

Update of Answer – 72041 – PZL TS-8 Bies kit with new parts. Kit consists of 96 plastic parts and 33 PE (photo-etched) parts. Decal sheet is unconfirmed yet but include 4 markings.