The three structures which have been constructed to this point (picture below) are then joined together, at which point the distinctive shape of the TIE Fighter starts to emerge. Once the part-tiled outer skin has been applied to both of the wings, the next step is to reinforce the central hub on the inner surface of each wing and then construct the characteristic ‘spokes’ which radiate out from the central hub to the edges of the wings. At this point, only the hub end of the diagonal spokes is held in place, with the other end free to move about. The box is approximately 58cm (23”) wide, 48cm (19”) high and 9 cm (3.5”) deep, which makes it taller than the recent UCS Slave 1 box but not as deep. A large image of the LEGO TIE Fighter model in flight is squeezed onto the front of the box, occupying almost all of the available space (picture below); it’s superimposed onto a graphic of what appears to be the Death Star trench. The box also features a smaller front-on image of the TIE Fighter model resting on its display stand. A gold logo reminds us that we’re in the presence of that most revered of LEGO Star Wars offerings – a UCS set – and the 14+ age recommendation further reinforces the fact that this is no ordinary set… On account of the simplicity of the TIE Fighter’s design plus some unavoidable repetition, the build wasn’t exactly the most interesting I’ve ever undertaken. Even so, there are some interesting building techniques employed during the build, not to mention some interesting element usage, and the final results more than make up for the effort. This is undoubtedly the definitive version of this iconic ship - it’s hard to see how it could be appreciably improved – and it looks great on display alongside my other Star Wars UCS sets. Brainslugged: What does it add that the 9492 didn't accomplish? "Look at the size of that thing!" It's huge. It will be catching attention 2 or 3 times more on your shelves, and will make you appreciate the amazing design. And I guess you will not have the usual building experience here, as you are right - it looks a bit dull on that side. But I believe throughout the build you will start to admire how well the TIE and the Lego model are designed. I guess here it's not about having a varied build, but about admiring the structure, stability - and size. Isn't it twice as high as 9492? There you have a good reason to buy it.

It's always seemed strange to me that LEGO has already released two TIE variants in UCS form – Set 7181 TIE Interceptor and Set 10175 Vader's TIE Advanced– but the basic TIE Fighter, one of the most iconic of all Star Wars craft, has been repeatedly overlooked for the UCS treatment. Star Wars fans can now rejoice, however, as LEGO has finally rectified that omission. Has LEGO nailed it, though? Read on to find out… Box & Contents