BVM MiG-15

Specifications
SCALE: 1:5.8
LENGTH: 68"
WING SPAN: 68"
WEIGHT (D.F.): 16 lbs
WEIGHT (Turbine): 18-20 lbs
PERFORMANCE: 30-150 mph with VIOFAN power and 30-180 mph with RAM 750, JET-CAT, or AMT Mercury turbines

BV's comments about the MiG kit

There is no doubt that this is a kit for experienced model builders. The wing and stab, although totally 3D engineered and laser cut, do have many parts and do require some shaping of the balsa leading edges and tips.
However, those modelers who do enjoy building, will find the MiG to be a real treat because the parts fit and instruction package are exceptional.
And, when it's time to fly your MiG-15, there is just nothing smoother and more stable. A few recent upgrades in the landing gear system add to its strength and function and an improved double wall tailpipe is also available.

Turbojet Powerplant Choices

BVM has the parts and plans for the following: JetCat P-70, 80 or 120 set to 16# thrust, or AMT AT-180.

Tailpipe upgrade: A double wall Stainless Steel tailpipe system is available for each of the above engine installations.

Everything you'd ever want in a model jet
Generous wing area. An extra-thick airfoil. A stretched tail moment. And an unmatched wide-stance landing gear.

Whether you're looking for your first jet, or to go head to head with the world's best in scale competition, you can't ask for a more stable, better handling scale subject than the BVM MiG-15.

The most upgradeable jet we've ever made. We've designed the MiG to be the easiest-to-upgrade jet ever. Start out simple - with wire struts, ducted fan and flaps. Most likely, the 7-channel system you're currently flying will be just fine. You'll find the MiG flys great in this format - even for first time users.

Easy to see. Earlier model jets were a bit small because thrust was limited. Now that we have more efficient and powerful VIOFAN's and BVM .91 and .96 engines, and yes, even turbines, new BVM jets are larger. The 68" x 68" size, distinctive high tail and swept outline makes it easy to see even on a cloudy day.

Most club fields suitable. A positive stance, 900 square inch wing, 4" tires and plenty of thrust ensures successful take-offs from grass fields. Add the flap and speed brake options, and safe steep approaches over a tree line or corn field are feasible. This is the easiest to land jet, so no need to worry about that sometimes fearful event.

The MiG-15 won 3rd place at the 2nd World Jet Masters in the hands of its designer, David Ribbe.

Building the MiG-15 a pleasurable modeling experience

Exterior parts receive a special color prime coat in the
mold to ease the finishing process.

BVM kits are famous for the superior quality of the epoxy glass parts. The MiG's fuselage, fin, access hatches and ducting are hand crafted with just the right amount of fiberglass and Kevlar in just the right places to provide maximum service strength at minimum weight. The scale panel lines are molded into the gray surface coat making the finishing process a snap.

Special attention has been given to the fin. All of the critical components that facilitate its removable feature and the elevator and rudder servo mounts are factory installed.

The complex inlet molds were computer machined for perfect accuracy and fit. Optimal design for fan and turbine requires two different sets of molds. Changing these parts allows conversion.

Balsa wings and stabs on a Jet?
But aren't they hard to build? Just listen to these testimonials.

"Since I haven't had recent experience with built-up balsa structures I thought this MiG might present a challenge. But with BVM's use of modern technology I found that the 3D computer designed and laser cut parts fit perfectly. I was surprised how fast the wings and stabs were ready for finishing." Jerry Caudle

"Most of the WWII warbirds we build here at F.T.E. have all balsa/ply wings and stabs but never have I seen such perfect fitting parts and when your wing must have ailerons, flaps, retracts, scale doors and wing tank mounts, a built-up structure is the easiest way to go. Couple that with the best instruction package in the industry and well, you have one easy building scale jet." Frank Tiano

Two or three evenings of model building gets your wings and stabs to this point, add the top prejoined skins and tips to complete the structure.

But is it strong? You bet it is, BVM always uses carbon fiber where it counts. Lots of high "G" flight testing by David Ribbe and Bob Violett offers proof that this Mig is built to last.

Real Instructions
CAD Drawn - Ink jet plotted plans contain every detail of assembly.
A 60 page photo enhanced manual completely describes each step of the building process.

From a manufacturer's point of view - it's the hardest part of getting the product ready for you. It takes a lot of time to do it right and it takes investment in trained personnel and modern equipment. Maybe that's why many other kits are so disappointing. But BVM knows how frustrating it can be when this very important part of the package is sparse.

Our experienced design staff takes pride in presenting to you the most complete and comprehensive instruction package in the industry. Full size CAD drawings show every part in the model and the step-by-step instruction manual has dozens of photos integrated into the text so that a first time jet modeler can complete this kit. Four full size ink-jet plotted plnas contain every detail of assembly. A 60 page photo enhanced manual completely describes each step of the building process. We even include a "finishing techniques" section that fully describes how to glass, resin and paint both the balsa and fiberlass surfaces. We even include a "first flight profile" to prepare you for that ultimate event.

A no compromise landing gear system
It is all new from the 4" tires up.


We made it very sturdy to handle less than perfect landings and made sure it features positive up and down locks. The unique design allows use of inexpensive 3/16" wire struts (mains) or true scale oleo action castings that mimic the real ones. Special BVM jet wheels and brakes are also part of the package. The scale nose strut is standard. Scale main struts with internal shocks make perfect landings a breeze. 3/16" wire struts work well with VIOFAN power.


The Main inner gear door is operated by a small BVM door cylinder that is mounted within the wing.

Kevlar Fuel Cells
for your turbine powered MiG-15

BVM MiG-15 Kevlar fuel cells
Part #6090

Kerosene fueled turbine engines have special fuel cell requirements. Most plastic model airplane fuel tanks were not large enough or of the correct shape to put the fuel where we need it and most are not strong enough to avoid bursting in the event of a crash.

BVM is addressing this need for their line of turbine compatible models with these custom made Kevlar fuel cells. Kevlar is well known for its extreme resistance to puncture and tearing so it is the perfect material to use. Race cars have incorporated this technology for many years to protect the drivers from crash induced fuel explosions.

These Kevlar cells are molded in 2 pieces and joined by the modeler using BVM's AeroPoxy glue and fitted with special hardware. MiG-15 Kevlar tanks hold 3.0 Liters of Kerosene.

MiG-15 wing tanks and pylons

Whether your MiG is scale or for fun, wing tanks always add to the overall look of a model. These tanks come complete with all materials necessary, including wood for the pylons and tank fins. The wing tanks are fiberglass and come as one piece from the factory.

Easy to Transport

A scale jet that can travel Plug-in wings, stabs and fin provide easy transport, especially if you have a BVM Jet Case. The fiberglass molded case is UPS legal and can travel as extra baggage with you on an airline.

Paint Schemes
See some beautifully rendered paint schemes for your MiG-15. CLICK HERE!

Pro-Mark Model Graphics will have a good selection of color schemes and markings to detail your MiG.

MiG-15
Airframe Directive (A.D.)
And other helpful notes

MiG-15 inner gear door cylinder mounting - in the wing.

The arrow points to the 1/8" 5-ply tab that is glued in as the cylinder mount. This installation simplifies the wing removal and installation time.

MiG LANDINGS MADE EASIER

We have had a few customers experience some difficulty obtaining consistently good landings so we consulted the MiG's designer, David Ribbe. David pointed out that the 45° landing flap angle as suggested in the manual is a little too much. He suggests 35° because the model will land at a higher body angle ensuring a main gear first touch down.
Another contributor to difficult landings is a nose heavy model. David suggested using the aft C.G. location shown on the plans. I can confirm this from our early test flights with a more forward C.G.
I have been using the 45° flap deflection because I often fly from a 450ft runway and the extra flap angle allows a more steep glide slope and a shorter roll out but I do agree with David that the landings are much easier and smoother (no bounces) with the lower flap angle setting. Make a template to set the flaps at 35°.

Happy MiG landings
Bob Violett

Elevator Control Linkage

We have discovered that some customers do not have a pair of really good "Z" bend pliers.

BVM is now supplying the elevator linkages pre-"Z" bent for your convenience. If you have an unfinished MiG-15 kit, notify us and we will send the linkages to you at no charge.

Tip for installing - Use (2) 18" lengths of nyrod, threaded onto the elevator linkages to pull the assembly through the fin. Slots in the fin must be filed to 5/32" width.
Nyrods are first routed through the slots, down through the fin, then attached to linkages.Some of our kits show "Z" bends as the method of linking a 1/16" wire control rod to a servo arm or control horn.

Wing building made easier

Wing building made easier - delete the process of applying the .007" carbon fiber strips to the upper and lower main spars before they are inserted into the wing rib slots. Rather glue the ¼" x 3/8" balsa spars in place and then apply a .014" x ¼" carbon fiber cap strip only to the outer surface of the spars. Check first that the C.F. strip is flush with the wing rib edge so as not to cause a bump in the wing sheeting. Adjust the spar with a small sanding block as necessary. Time saved - approx. 2 hours.