Introduction:

The 9K35 Strela-10 (SA-13 Gopher) is a mobile anti-aircraft system designed to protect motorized and tank units against low flying attacks by helicopters and aircraft. Aimed to replace the Strela-1 (SA-9 Gaskin), the development of the system started in 1969. The initial tests were disappointing and the system needed significant improvements before acceptance to service in 1976. Development of the system continued throughout the years trough Strela-10M, -10M2 and -10M3 variants, the latest variant being Strela-10M4, unveiled in 2014.

Strela-10 was first released in 1/35 scale under Skif label back in 2003. After producing number of Soviet anti-aircraft systems in 1/35 scale, Trumpeter offered their Strela-10 kit in 2017. Both kits provide a nice basis for a great SA-13 Gopher model, but extensive upgrades are required to actually get there and many modelers were looking for detailed reference material on the system. WWP to the rescue with the latest photo reference title in company catalogue: Strela S10 in Detail (Russian SA-13 Gopher AA System) (G050).

Review:

The book is safely packed in a hard cardboard box, additionally protected in bubble wrap. Opening the book and flipping through the pages reveals a very attractive layout which follows the same format as the previous WWP titles. Here are the basic facts:

Title: Strela S10 in Detail (Russian SA-13 Gopher AA System)
Publisher: Wings & Wheels Publications
Code: G050
Authors: Jan Horák & František Kořán
Format: softcover (22x24 cm)
Pages: 108
Color: full color
Language: English
ISBN: 978-80-87509-57-9
Retail Price: $33 (€27)

The book is printed on high-quality paper and comprises of 108 pages filled with large high-resolution photographs of the subject showing all the possible detail inside and out, accompanied by short image captions. This particular title delivers over 360 color photographs and dozen manual drawings covering Strela S-10 system in great depth. The book is organized in 12 chapters which are color coded on the page edges, allowing easy navigation:

• Introduction (002-0059)
• Czech Army Camo (006-031)
• Former Users (032-033)
• Hull Details (034-049)
• Gearbox Details(050-053)
• Engine Details (054-059)
• Swimming Set (060-065)
• Wheels and Tracks (066-069)
• Hull Interior (070-085)
• Turret Exterior (086-095)
• Turret Interior (096-101)
• Containers and Missiles (102-107)

The book opens with a short Introduction chapter which describes the origins of the vehicle and the upgrades it received during the years in service. Czech Army Colors chapter shows the system in Czech use. Several vehicles are shows in detail with an emphasis on different camo schemes. A brief 2-page chapter on Former Users displays a couple of images of Iraqi, Slovak and German vehicles. The Strela S-10 walkaround starts with Hull Details , a chapter which covers headlights (early and late type), PKM machine gun and 6P10M mount, telephone and electric sockets, passive detection antennae, rear lights and reloading frame mechanism. Gearbox Details are covered next. Together with Engine Details , these two chapters provide a great value for anyone wanting to display their model open. Swimming Set chapter gives an overview of a vehicle with all parts of the swimming system mounted, also providing detailed images of all the system components. Next up is the chapter on Wheels and Tracks , which offers photos of early and late track links. Hull Interior provides a superb coverage of drivers compartment, commander's compartment, as well as right side tunnel and rear hull interior with container racks, fuel tanks and turret power components. Wow! Turret Exterior chapter shows turret details, front window and optical sight details. Launcher is covered in great depth, with radar antenna, launcher frame and container locks. Turret Interior follows, showing details of operator's compartment. Finally, a chapter on Containers and Missiles provide details on containers (unfired and fired), as well as 9M37M rockets.

Conclusion:

Strela S10 in Detail (Russian SA-13 Gopher AA System) (G050) from WWP is an incredible reference material on Strela S-10 system. The book is full of large and clear images showing every part of the vehicle in great detail. Accompanying text is kept short, but provides interesting facts on the system and its components.

I highly recommend this book and feel it is an absolute must for all those modeling the Strela S-10.