MPM Hobbies 1/48 Scale SPPU-22 Gun Pod (Set of 2)
Add authentic Soviet/Russian gun pod capability to your 1/48 scale jet aircraft models with this detailed 3D printed SPPU-22 gun pod set from MPM Hobbies. As a late Cold War era gun pod with the unique feature of downward-elevating armament, the SPPU-22 represents distinctive Soviet weapons technology—and now you can recreate that capability with museum-quality detail on your Su-17 Fitter, Su-25 Frogfoot, MiG-23, and MiG-27 Flogger aircraft.
Historical Significance
The SPPU-22 holds a distinguished place in Soviet/Russian military aviation as a late Cold War era gun pod developed in the 1970s for use on fixed-wing aircraft. The name SPPU stands for Samolyatnaya Podvizhnaya Pushechnuaya Ustanovka, which is Russian for "aircraft movable gun pod." The SPPU-22 has the unique feature of its armament that can be elevated downwards, allowing pilots to engage ground targets while maintaining a safer flight profile. This innovative design provided Soviet tactical aircraft with enhanced ground-attack capability, particularly valuable for close air support missions where the ability to aim the gun independently of the aircraft's flight path improved accuracy and survivability.
Operational Details
The SPPU-22 is most commonly used on the Su-17 Fitter, Su-25 Frogfoot, and MiG-23 and MiG-27 Flogger aircraft. The pod's movable gun mount allows the weapon to be depressed below the aircraft's flight path, enabling pilots to engage ground targets without diving steeply toward them—a significant tactical advantage that reduces exposure to ground fire. In theory the SPPU-22 can be used on helicopters, but in that case it can only be fired directly forwards, making the lighter UPK-23 pod a much better alternative for rotary-wing applications. The SPPU-22 remains available although it is unknown if these are newly produced or refurbished pods, testament to the enduring utility of this proven weapons system.
Product Features
- Scale-Accurate Detail - Precisely scaled 1/48 representation with authentic proportions including pod body, gun housing, and mounting hardware
- Premium 3D Printed Resin - High-resolution LCD-based SLA printing captures fine details including panel lines, access panels, and suspension lugs
- Historically Accurate - Based on reference photos and technical documentation of actual SPPU-22 gun pods
- Set of 2 Pods - Complete loadout for realistic Soviet/Russian strike configurations
- Made in the USA - Designed, printed, and quality-controlled by MPM Hobbies in America
- Versatile Compatibility - Suitable for multiple Soviet/Russian aircraft types that carry the SPPU-22 system
Compatible Aircraft Models
The SPPU-22 is carried by Soviet/Russian tactical aircraft. This gun pod set is ideal for detailing the following 1/48 scale aircraft:
- Su-17 Fitter - Variable-geometry strike fighter
- Su-25 Frogfoot - Close air support aircraft
- MiG-23 Flogger - Variable-geometry fighter
- MiG-27 Flogger - Ground-attack variant
3D Printing Information
Item(s) is/are LCD-based SLA printed using UV cured resin and will be shipped unpainted and with 3D print supports attached. Item can be primed with acrylic, lacquer or enamel type paint. Lightly sand and/or prime any horizontal striations due to the printing process. Remove supports starting from the tip down and start by freeing those supports connected to small and fragile details. Recommend using CA for attaching item to model or filling any imperfections. Item(s) will have features that are brittle or extremely delicate and prone to breaking if not properly handled. 3D print support configurations may be different than the ones in the photos if applicable. Photos may include the CAD rendered file used for printing to highlight details that do not stand out well in regular photos. Not intended for small children due to choking hazard and should only be purchased by experienced modelers due fine details and printer support removal. The number of items in your order is calculated by multiplying the quantity you selected by the number of items per set if applicable. All items are printed in the order they are purchased.
Modeling Tips
For best results, clean any support material carefully with a sharp hobby knife and test-fit the pod to your aircraft's pylon before final assembly. Prime the resin with a quality primer designed for resin parts, then paint according to your chosen scheme. Most SPPU-22 gun pods are finished in overall light gray or green with black or dark gray stenciling and markings. Reference photos will help ensure accurate finish and markings for your specific aircraft and time period.
Complementary Products at MPM Hobbies
- MPM Aircraft Resins collection - Complete range of ordnance, cockpit details, and aircraft upgrades
- 1/48 MPM Missiles - Additional ordnance options for Soviet/Russian aircraft
- Other SPPU-22 variants in 1/32 scale and 1/72 scale
About MPM Hobbies
MPM Hobbies specializes in precision 3D printed resin upgrades and accessories for scale aircraft, armor, and ship models. Every product is designed using historical references and technical documentation to ensure maximum accuracy and detail. Our commitment to quality and authenticity has made us a trusted source for serious modelers seeking to elevate their builds beyond kit standards. For additional information about the SPPU-22, visit the SPPU-22 page at Weaponsystems.net as a way to find information about their products.
Design by Reuben Romel
Bring Soviet/Russian ground-attack capability to life with the authentic SPPU-22 gun pod from MPM Hobbies - your source for premium scale modeling accessories.