What purpose does it serve and what does the real thing look like? Thanks.

Do you have a picture? I can't visualize what you're referring to?

No, all I have is my verbal description. If I had more I would have provided it.

Maybe giving us the kit part number would help us to help you You'll find the instructions here : http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10032678

Just pick up the picture you need and show us

PS : I've not found any hook-shaped part yet....

Frenchy

Thanks for the guide.

The part is M8 of the missile booster section, where the hook is molded on near the exhaust end of the booster assembly, and where M19 and M7 attach. It broke off on my missile (surprise, surprise,) and I wonder what the hook is supposed to be for anyway. I thought of replacing it with a wire piece, but would like to know what the thing looks like on the RL missile. Thanks.

From Frenchy's link, I am seeing the following:

M8: Left half of booster body
M7: Right half of booster body
M19: Left fin (attaches to M8)

I think I'm still confused...

M9 is the actuator for the control surfaces (looks like a hook) - the stuff that's actually molded on to the booster are various brackets, etc. You could get the Eduard PE set that replaces alot of them anyway, and is a good detail set itself.

I don't think that answers your question

I do have the Eduard PE set, but it doesn't cover that part. The piece (part of the M8 booster body) is an L-shaped hook molded on. I'm assuming it's some sort of bracket rather than anyting else but I wanted to be sure.