Airfix Model World Issue 059 (October 2015)

SHACKLETON PREVIEW

SIX-SHOOTER 1/48 Trumpeter F-106 Delta Dart

1/72 Airfix test-shot Oct 2015 Issue 59

70

REVIEWS

BUCKEYE BONANZA IPMS USA 2015 show highlights

EXCLUSIVE BUILD Airfix’s all-new 1/72 Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat

GALLIC HORSEPOWER 1/35 SOMUA S35

EYE IN THE SKY

£4.30

1/48 Bv 141

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EDITOR'S DESK

WELCOME

Like us! facebook.com/airfixmodelworld Visit us! www.airfixmodelworld.com

WELCOME TO ISSUE 59

T

he IPMS USA National Convention has come and gone...but what an event! It had been a while since I’d visited this show; Omaha, Nebraska four years ago being the last time, but American

hospitality hasn’t changed a bit and the modelling on display was awe-inspiring. Yes it’s a long way to go from the UK and of course, it’s part of a model magazine editor’s job to attend. I do look upon this as a huge privilege, but it does reinforce the fact that modelling really is a truly global hobby and when it comes down to it, we are all the same, never mind the language. And the diversity on display in Columbus, Ohio this year, among the 2,700 models in the competition, was impressive. One might be forgiven for thinking that a show in the US would be packed with that country’s products, such as the F-4, P-51 and many others. Of course, these did appear, but there were European aircraft types I had never actually

seen before in books, let alone on a show table. A good example was the lovely 1/72 Czechoslovakian Beneš-Mráz Be50 trainer, entered by a modeller who had flown all the way from French Polynesia. I find this dedication to the hobby heart-warming, and as long as people display this sort of enthusiasm for our humble craft, it has an assured future. The show also allowed me another privilege in that I met Mr Dana Bell for the first time. This luminary in the field of aviation research, especially with colour schemes, is a true gentleman and I’m delighted to announce that he has joined the AMW contributor team. Dana’s first feature for us, on Grumman’s F4F Wildcat, is on p.52 of this issue...and is the

perfect accompaniment to Jen Wright’s splendid test-shot build of Airfix’s all-new F4F-4 Wildcat. The company’s design and moulding seems to get better with each release, and it’s wonderful to see Airfix tackling US subjects occasionally, despite its long-held grounding in British aircraft. As if that isn’t exciting enough, we also have preview photos of parts from Airfix’s forthcoming Shackleton MR.2 following our news pages this month. The full build will appear in November’s issue...and I’m beside myself with anticipation! Chris Clifford, Editor [email protected]

FREE MODEL! Claim your FREE Airfix Spitfire PR.XIX or Gladiator Mk.I when you subscribe to Airfix Model World. See page 70. Editor: Chris Clifford Assistant Editor: Stu Fone Editor's Secretary: Vanessa Smith Contributors this issue: Eric Larson, Warren E Thompson, Garry Tobiss, Joerg Stange, Jennifer Wright, Dana Bell, Glenn Sands, Ian Grainger Art Editor: Tom Bagley Group Art Editor: Steve Donovan Production Manager: Janet Watkins Commercial Director: Ann Saundry Group Advertising Manager: Brodie Baxter Advertising Manager: Tom Lee Ad Production Manager: Debi McGowan Group Marketing Manager: Martin Steele Marketing Manager: Shaun Binnington Subscriptions and Mail Order: Liz Ward Managing Director: Adrian Cox Executive Chairman: Richard Cox Key Publishing Ltd, PO Box 100, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1XQ, UK.

Distributed by: Seymour Distribution Ltd, 2 Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PP. Tel: 020 7429 4000. Fax: 020 7429 4001. Printed by: Warners (Midland) plc, Bourne. Printed in England (ISSN 1471-0587). Subscriptions: Please refer to main advertisement within the magazine. All applications stating name, address, date to commence and remittance to: Subscriptions Department, Airfix Model World, Key Publishing Ltd, P0 Box 300, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1NA, UK. Telephone/9.00-5.30 Monday-Friday GMT +44 (0) 1780 480404, Fax: +44 (0) 1780 757812 E-Mail: [email protected] Airfix Model World (ISSN: 1471-0587) is published monthly by Key Publishing Ltd, P0 Box 300, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1NA, UK and distributed in the USA by Mail Right Int., 1637 Stelton Road B4, Piscataway, NJ 08854.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Piscataway, NJ and additional mailing offices.Readers in the USA can place subscriptions by visiting www.airfixmodelworld.com or by calling toll free 800-676-4049 or fax 757-428-6253 or by writing to Airfix Model World, 3330 Pacific Ave, Ste 500, Virginia Beach, VA23451-9828. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Airfix Model World, Key Publishing Ltd, c/o Mail Right International Inc.,1637 Stelton Road B4, Piscataway NJ 08854. All items submitted for publication are subject to our terms and conditions. These are regularly updated without prior notice and are freely available from www.keypublishing.com The entire contents of Airfix Model World is © copyright, and no part of it may be reproduced in any form or stored on any form of retrieval system without the prior permission of the publisher.

“AIRFIX’’ is a registered trade mark of Hornby Hobbies Limited and is used under licence. We are unable to guarantee the bona fides of any of our advertisers. Readers are strongly recommended to take their own precautions before parting with any information or item of value, including, but not limited to, money, manuscripts, photographs or personal information in response to any advertisements within this publication.

The average sale for the period Jan – Dec 2014 was 12,005 print and digital copies monthly.

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CONTENTS INSIDE

42

EXCLUSIVE BUILD F4F-4 WILDCAT

REGULARS 06 News The latest happenings in the world of plastic modelling.

10 Show Scene At-a-glance model show calendar.

56 Your Airfix Readers showcase their Airfix builds.

70 FREE MODEL! Claim your free Airfix Supermarine Spitfire PR.XIX or Gloster Gladiator AMW Mk.I when you subscribe to AMW.

76 On the Shelf Seventeen pages of reviews highlight the latest modelling products.

98 The Plastic Surgery Quiz AMW’s team of contributors, history writers and industry contacts about your modelling conundrums.

72

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BASIC BUILD COSMOSTRATOR

30

INTERMEDIATE BUILD Bv 141

Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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CONTENTS

INSIDE

16

INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-106A

FEATURES 14 Test-Shot Preview – Airfix 1/72 Shackleton We provide a sneak-peek of the parts from this long-awaited kit.

16 Intermediate build – Big Sky Interceptor The handsome F-106A is a favourite of Eric Larson, who builds Trumpeter’s recently released 1/48 kit.

SHOW SCENE IPMS USA National Convention

26 In Focus – Six-Shooter The career of the mighty F-106 Delta Dart is examined by Warren E Thompson, who offers superb period images and pilot accounts.

30 Intermediate Build – Asymmetric Oddity Garry Tobiss details and improves Hobby Boss’ Bv 141 Luftwaffe reconnaissance aircraft.

38 In Focus – NATO Tigers in Turkey The ever skilful Joerg Stange captures stunning reference images from this year’s NATO Tiger Meet.

42 Exclusive Build – Top Cat Jennifer Wright thinks that Airfix’s forthcoming 1/72 F4F-4 Wildcat sets new standards for the company. Her test-shot build is a cracker!

52 In Focus – Ironworks Fighter Esteemed US aviation historian Dana Bell makes his AMW debut, with a revealing look at the operations and colour schemes of Grumman’s feisty Wildcat.

62

BASIC BUILD SOMUA S35

58 Out and About – Buckeye Bonanza Editor Chris Clifford offers a report from this year’s IPMS USA National Convention in Columbus, Ohio.

62 Basic Build – Gallic Horsepower Tamiya’s sweet little 1/35 SOMUA S35 tank is built out-of-the-box by Garry Tobiss.

68 Out and About – Ciao Commando! Yeovilton’s annual airshow was the perfect place to celebrate Westland’s 100th Anniversary, as discovered by Glenn Sands.

72 Basic Build – Cosmic Anomaly Ian Grainger delves into obscure 1960s sci-fi with Pegasus Hobbies’ Cosmostrator rocket. Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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NEWS BULLETIN

LATEST UPDATES

QUARTER-SCALE NEW TOOLINGS!

Timed perfectly to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, Airfix has announced that it will release a newly tooled 1/48 Boulton Paul Defiant Mk.I in February 2016. This highly detailed kit has benefitted from the extensive research undertaken for the firm’s 1/72 version, which included handson access to the only remaining complete Defiant airframe during its restoration. The interior looks superb, particularly the cockpit area, although the wheel wells are also noteworthy. The two dayfighter camouflage schemes are: • L7026/PS-V, Plt Offs PL Kenner and CE Johnson, 264

Squadron, RAF Kirton-inLindsey, August 1940 • L1572/KO-I, 2 Squadron, Army co-operation trials,

RAF Hatfield, South Yorkshire, September 1940 And if that wasn’t enough to whet one’s creative appetite, Airfix has announced an all-new 1/48 Meteor F.8! The kit will have full engine and gun bay detail, and a Rolls-Royce Derwent powerplant can be displayed outside of the airframe on a maintenance stand. Airfix employed LIDAR scanning of a real F.8 at Gloucestershire’s Jet Age Museum, so the accuracy will be top notch. No colour scheme detail has been released yet, but we’re assured both liveries will be British. For further details visit: www.airfix.com

KIT STARTER FRONTRUNNERS

AIRFIX’S INGENIOUS Kit Starter initiative, which aims to bring back classic kits on a pre-order only basis, currently has three interesting votetoppers. In first place is the 1/72 Beagle Basset with 44 per cent of the votes, followed by the DHC Beaver with 28 per cent. In third place (and coming in from way over in left field!) is the 1/12 Black Prince (Edward of Woodstock, eldest son of King Edward III) with 18 per cent. To vote for your favourite, from a selection of classic Airfix kits (and in doing so stating your desire for a pre-order), visit: http://www. airfix.com/uk-en/kitstarter

MARITIME MASTERPIECE largest single difference to the basic kit. Standouts among the smaller items are the 12-piece paravanes and large lattice-jib deck crane, which is fashioned from PE. Unsurprisingly, this level of detail does not come cheap, and this deluxe set retails

AS GOOD as Trumpeter’s massive 1/200 scale HMS Nelson is, there’s plenty of room for improvement and Mk.I Design’s upgrade set will turn this into a work of art. The bumper package (MD-20010) comprises 20 photo-etched metal (PE) frets, more than 250 turnedmetal and resin components, a multi-section wooden deck and length of fine chain. The detail is incredible, and the accompanying photographs illustrate just a sample

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for US $226.02. A value pack (MD20011), which contains just nine PE frets and lacks the turned metal barrels and upgrades to the mast and radars, is also available at US $145.30. For further details visit: www.ka-models.com

of what is provided. Most of the turned-metal accessories will replace the kit’s gun barrels, from the nine 16in (406mm) main weapons to the 62 individual 20mm gun mounts and octuple 2-pdr pom-pom guns. Five turned-brass shells are included, and these will make a fine counterpoint when positioned next to the turrets. There doesn’t appear to be a single element of the ship that isn’t embellished in one form or another, and the wooden deck is the

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NEWS BULLETIN

LATEST UPDATES

LOFTY LUFTWAFFE FIGHTER

DESIGNED AS a high-altitude Fw 190 variant, Kurt Tank’s Ta 152 has now received the Zoukei-Mura treatment with this 1/32 scale release. In actuality, this product (SWS011) feels less like a model kit and more like a reproduction of a real aircraft, albeit with smaller parts. The level of interior detail is extraordinary, from the single-piece main wing spar section through to the

fuselage fuel tanks...yet there’s not a single piece of photo-etched metal to be found. It’s difficult to decide which is the most impressive item, the cockpit or the engine, as both are stunning and almost kits in their own right. Perhaps the only downside is that none of the fuselage or wing coverings have been provided as transparencies, which means that once mated, the

interior will be hidden. But it goes without saying that modellers will no doubt find a way to display the innards in all their glory. Helpfully, a mask set is provided for the complex curves of the main canopy. Five schemes are offered, with numerals for several aircraft assigned to III./JG 301: 150010, Green 4, NeustadtGlewe, Germany, April 1945 Yellow 1, Alteno Afld, Germany, February 1945 Yellow 2, Alteno Afld, Germany, February 1945 Yellow 3, Germany, 1945 150007, White 7, Stendal, Germany, May 1945 Zoukei-Mura has also released several sets of figures for the Ta 152, any of which will make an excellent diorama scene. These are the Ground Crew, Armament Crew and Flight Assistant, and the latter includes a pilot figure. For further details visit: www.zoukeimura.co.jp/en

NEW DESERT CAT

A FLEDGLING kit manufacturer has made an impressive debut with its all-new 1/35 Tiger I tank in Deutsche Afrika Korps format. Hong Kong-based Rye Field Model will please legions of armour fans with its Ausf.E Initial Production Early 1943 North Africa/Tunisia (RM5001)...especially as CyberHobby’s previous White Box rendition of this particular vehicle now fetches up to £400 on Internet auctions. Rye Field’s effort displays excellent moulding. Its many plus-points include correct turret pistol ports, slotted exhausts, starter guide plate, stowage bin and back-tofront tow cable positions (exemplified by Pz.Abt. 501), separate glycol coolant filler caps and well-represented Feifel air cleaners. There are even delicate wingnuts on the integrally moulded tool clamps. If one wishes to add further refinement, photo-

etched brass is provided and packed with tool clamps, engine screen mesh, wheel locking rings, three patterns of anti-slip texture for the front track cover, and more. The working track is sublime; this is completed with the help of a jig, and the guide horn/track pin components are separate items. Minor niggles include slightly incorrect spacing of the track guard bolts and panel lines, the positioning of the track cable mounts is a little off,

and there’s a double rim on the wheels when it should be single....but it’s £20-30 cheaper than a Dragon Tiger I. Interestingly, there is a third turret half and alternative parts (which point to another release), and the existing inner turret attachment points and large array of ammunition suggest a potential separate interior detail set with ammo stowage racks. The kit has just reached Lucky Model: www.luckymodel.com

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NEWS BULLETIN

LATEST UPDATES

{in brief}

KING OF THE EAGLES?

EXTRA-SPECIAL LAMBO Aoshima has provided a sneak-peek at a development model of its forthcoming 1/24 Lamborghini Sesto Elemento. This stunning and very limited edition supercar, from the makers of the Aventador and Murcielago, manages 0-62mph (0-100km/h) in just 2.5secs, and has an incredible power-to-weight ratio of 1.75kg per hp...due in part to the extensive use of carbon-fibre. Given Aoshima’s prowess with Lamborghini kits, this forthcoming rendition ought to be very impressive indeed. Look out for a review and build in AMW on the kit’s release.

INTERNET ENTITY After soldiering on with a slightly pedestrian and uninformative website for some time, S&M Models now has a new and much more user-friendly version. Well known for its own-brand limitedrun kits, decals, resin conversions and bespoke boxings of Williams Brothers kits, the company can be found at: www.sandmmodels.co.uk

FOR MANY years, Hasegawa’s F-15C/J has reigned as the best in 1/72 scale...but a worthy challenger has now emerged in Platz’s new F-15J. This kit (AC-16) has a similar parts breakdown, but where it really excels is in the overall level of detail, from the full-length intakes/exhausts, to an accurate cockpit and instrument panel. While the exterior engraved panel lines may appear slightly deep, the additional rivet detail is quite delicate. One big improvement is the inclusion of a full complement of accurate Japanese AAM-3 and AAM-4 missiles (similar to the AIM-9 and AIM-120 respectively) and the launch rails for the former are some of the best

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NEW MODEL shops are rare, but one modeller has bucked the trend by opening a retail outlet in Croydon, South London. William Patane is building stock levels and ranges for his Kits4All store, but already has Airfix, Tamiya, Aoshima and others, as well as paints and weathering supplies. William told AMW: “People have said it’s a brave step, but business is still good now we are in the fourth week." William is exploring other ranges, and will soon offer mail order and credit card facilities. The shop is at Unit 16 St George’s Walk, Croydon, CR0 1YH, and is open from 10.30am to 5pm Mon-Sat. Tel: 0208 6887781 or visit: www.kits4all.london

WOLFPACK REFERENCE and white/colour photographs, and these are supported by beautifully rendered 1/48 scale colour profiles, and individual 1/24 examples of nose art. The profiles depict famous and lesser-known airframes and, thankfully, some of the most attractive subjects are catered for by the accompanying decal sheet.

SPRAYING TUTORIAL Following the popularity and success of the Airbrushing on Scale Models two-day course, The Airbrush Experts is pleased to announce additional dates of October 24-25 this year. The course is limited to six students, who can expect to learn all the fundamentals of airbrushing including maintenance, handling, paint thinning and air pressures, as well as surface prep and weathering techniques among other useful titbits. The course cost is £175 per person and includes a 1/32 Airfix model. For further details vsit: www.airbrushexperts.co.uk or on Facebook under ‘The Airbrush Experts’.

seen to date. Curiously, the external fuel tanks and horizontal stabilisers exhibit raised panel lines, and these will need to be sanded slightly as they do not appear to be as prominent on real aircraft. The busy decal sheet is crammed with stencils, unit/ national insignia, and provides for up to ten schemes. Overall, it looks like this could now be the new king of 1/72 F-15s. Should one desire that little bit extra, then Platz has co-operated with Eduard to produce a photoetched metal upgrade set (M7235) which improves the cockpit, intakes, fuselage antennas, missile attachment points and airbrake. For further details visit: www.platz-hobby.com

WALK IN AND BUY!

Markings are in 1/72, 1/48 and 1/32, and include those for Donovan Smith’s Razorback P-47 ‘Ole Cock’ and Joseph Curtis’s ‘Liberty Belle. Many of the photos have not been in print before and are massively useful. The book is available from The Aviation Book Centre: www.aviationbookcentre.com

BOOK AND decal combinations have become hugely popular, but the new package on the famous 56th Fighter Group sets new standards. By Nigel Julian, Peter Randall and Zbigniew Kolacha, this superb 66-page work from AJ Press is a must-have item for fans of the US 8th Air Force, and the P-47 in particular. It’s sub-titled ‘Kings Cliffe Kindergarten – Halesworth Heyday’, which refers to the two stations occupied by the legendary ‘Wolfpack’, home to aces such as ‘Hub’ Zemke, Francis Gabreski and Walker Mahurin. A full, fascinating and well-researched history text accompanies the stunning black

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NEWS BULLETIN

LATEST UPDATES

SEAMLESS SPOOK FULCRUM SEXTUPLET

OUR VISIT to the IPMS USA National Convention in July offered the chance to examine items from new after-market firm GT Resin Products. The company specialises in 1/32 conversions, and with Revell’s and Tamiya’s Phantoms being particular focus points. The resin seamless air intakes shown here, for Revell’s 1/32 Phantom, have good casting and detail, and the

mesh-like panels on the intake ramps are very impressive. Highly detailed compressor faces are also included, but obviously this set (and the others in the range) is not for the beginner as a fair amount of surgery on the kit fuselage is required. GT also produces items for the 1/32 F-15 and F-105. To buy this firm’s conversions, visit its ebay store at:stores.ebay.com/ centre762?_rdc=1

DAS BOOT!

A NEW decal release from Linden Hill is always worth celebrating, and this 1/48 package offers interesting markings for Russian MiG-29s that are bang up to date. The schemes on sheet LHD48038 are for 9-13s and a single UB sub-type, and a pleasing addition is that three of the schemes for jets based at Erebuni, Armenia, carry special artwork; these are the Three Saints of Erebuni, rendered on the real aircraft by heraldic artist Anton Pavlov, who helped in the making of these decals and is shown at work on the instructions. The schemes are: • 9-13, RF-29160/Red 21 ‘Alexandr Nevskii’, 3624th AB, Erebuni • 9-13, RF-29161/Red 23 ‘Dmitrii Donskoi’, 3624th AB, Erebuni • 9-13, RF-29162/Red 24 ‘Merkurii Smolenskii’, 3624th AB, Erebuni • 9-13, RF-93717/Blue 10 ‘R-73 Bee’, 31 IAP, 6969th AB, Millerevo, Russia

in the piPeline...} • Aircraft beware! AFV Club, Dragon and Trumpeter have announced new 1/35 MIM-104 Patriot missile kits; the latter’s offering (01022) will feature an M901 launcher and AN/MPQ-53 radar, whereas the other two will just include the launcher unit. • Pilot Replicas is working on a new 1/48 SAAB J 29 Tunnan ‘Flying Barrel’ to follow it’s just-released J 21 kit. • It looks like Hobby Boss’ long-awaited family of newly tooled Su-27s will be with us soon...company images reveal a probable 1/48 Su-27UB Flanker C and Chinese J-11.

LOOKING FOR an involved maritime project, with heaps of detail? Then one should consider CMK’s stunning resin interior sets designed for Revell’s 1/72 Type IXC U-Boat. There are various sets in the series, with more to come, but shown here are the Front Torpedo Section (N72011), Command Section (N72014), Captain’s and Officers’ Ward Room (N72016) and Galley (N72022).

As with CMK’s previous sets for Revell’s Type VII U-Boat, one must cut away sections of the kit hull to enable the new details to be seen, and the well-cast resin, which is accompanied in some cases by photo-etched metal, will ensure a wonderful build packed with refinements. Whole bulkhead walls are provided, and good drawings show where surgery has to be performed. CMK’s e-shop can be found at: www.cmkkits.com

• 9-13, RF-92262/Red 29 ‘Hero of Russia Gen Sulambek Oskanov’, 4th GTsPAV i VI, Lipetsk, Russia • UB, RF-92196/Blue 75, 31 IAP, 6969th AB, Millerevo Three styles of camouflage are represented and the markings are also available in 1/72 scale (LHD72034). For further details visit: www.lindenhillimports.com

• KA-Models has announced an updated version of Fujimi’s excellent 1/72 F-14 Tomcat, and indications are that AvantGarde may offer its own 1/48 version of Grumman’s big ‘Kitty’. Russian heavy metal is assured with

the latter’s announcement of a 1/48 MiG-31BM Foxhound (88003). • Dragon’s extensive range of Panzer IVs is almost complete, with its forthcoming 1/35 Pz.Bef.IV Ausf.J Fahrgestall Nr.92200 w/ Zimmerit (6823). • Atlantic Models is preparing to release new update sets for Revell’s 1/700 HMS Tiger (ATEM 7002), and Airfix’s 1/600 HMS Leander (ATEM 60002) and 1/350 HMS Illustrious (ATEM 35006). • Work continues apace on Tanmodel’s new-tool 1/48 RF-84F Thunderflash (2201), and future releases will include a 1/48 T-37 and a 1/32 F-111. • A surprise addition to either the Hobby Boss or Trumpeter range will be a 1/35 Modern German Puma tracked Infantry Fighting Vehicle.

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SHOW SCENE

DIARY DATES

SHOW SCENE

At-a-glance model and airshow calendar

TANKMOD 2015 Hosts:

Armortek/The Tank Museum

Address: The Tank Museum, Bovington, Dorset, BH20 6JG

10 OCT, 2015 THE TANK MUSUEM

Times:

10am-5pm

Prices:

Adults £13, children £7.50 (IPMS members adult £11 and £5 children)

Tel:

01929 405096

Email:

[email protected]

Web:

www.tankmuseum.org

SEP 19

NCMSS MODEL SOLDIER FIGURE SHOW & EXHIBIT

SEP 27

ST. IVES MODEL SHOW

OCT 3

ABINGDON SHOW

OCT 17

GLASGOW MODEL FEST 2015

Hosts:

NCMSS

Hosts:

Brampton IPMS

Hosts:

Abingdon IPMS

Hosts:

IPMS Glasgow/MAFVA Miniature Armour Group

Address: Thomas Edison High School, 5801 Franconia Road, Alexandria, VA 22310, USA

Address: Burgess Civic Hall, Westwood Road, St Ives, Cambridgeshire, PE27 6WU

Times:

Times:

10am-4pm

9am-5pm

Address: Larkmead School, Farringdon Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 1BB

Prices:

Prices:

Adult £1.50, concessions 50p

Adult US $7, 13-17-yearolds $3, under-12s free

Times:

10am-4pm

Tel:

01480 896949

Prices:

Email:

bramptonshow@hotmail. co.uk

Adults £3, OAPs/children £2

Web:

www.sites.google.com/ site/ipmsbrampton

Tel:

N/A

Email:

[email protected]

Web:

www.ncmss.org

SEP 20

WINGS & THINGS 2015

Hosts:

IPMS Fenland & Spalding Model Club

OCT 2-4

IPMS HELLAS 34TH ANNUAL EXHIBITION

Hosts:

IPMS Hellas

Address: Spalding High School, Stonegate, Spalding, Lincs, PE11 2JR

Address: Hellinikon Olympic Hockey Centre, Agiou Gerasimou Street, Hellinikon, Argyroupoli, 167 77, Athens, Greece

Times:

10am-4pm

Times:

Prices:

Adults £2, OAPs £1, children under 16 £1

Fri noon-9pm Sat noon-9pm Sun 10am-6pm

Address: Bellahouston Leisure Centre, 31 Bellahouston Drive, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, G52 1HH Times:

10am-4pm

Prices:

Adult £4, concessions £2, family £8

Tel:

0141 563 2098

Tel:

N/A

Email:

simonfisher2008@ btinternet.com

Email:

Web:

abingdon-ipms.blogspot. co.uk

bruce.smith33@ntlworld. com

Web:

N/A

OCT 4

SOUTH WALES MAFVA OPEN AFTERNOON

OCT 17-18

NORDIC CHALLENGE

Hosts:

South Wales MAFVA

Hosts:

IPMS Finland and SuPi Ry

Address: St John’s Church Hall, Rachel Close, Danescourt, Cardiff, CF5 2SH

Address: Rajatorpantie 23, 0160 Vantaa, Finland

Times:

2.30pm-5pm

Times:

10am-5pm

Prices:

Adults €10, children €5, under-7s free

Tel:

N/A

Prices:

Free

Prices:

Free

Email:

ipms.fenlandand spalding@gmailcom

Tel:

N/A

Tel:

01443 208447

Email:

ipms-hellas@windowslive. com

Email:

paul.gandy@btinternet. com

Tel:

+358 40 5433623

Email:

[email protected]

Web:

www.ipms-hellas.gr

Web:

www.mafva.net

Web:

www.ipms.fi

Web:

www.ipmsfenlandand spalding.moonfruit.com

KEY

E MODEL DISPLAY

) MODEL COMPETITION m AIRCRAFT DISPLAY

 

MILITARY DISPLAY



REFRESHMENTS

AUTOMOTIVE DISPLAY



FREE PARKING

J TRADE STANDS

AIRFIX ROADSHOW ATTENDING

IMPORTANT: It is worth noting that ALL events are subject to change or cancellation. This information has been collated from a variety of sources and was believed to be correct at the time of going to press. To advertise your event here, email: [email protected]

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TEST-SHOT PREVIEW

AIRFIX 1/72 SHACKLETON

IT’S ALMOST HERE! I

f there’s one kit that has caused more excitement than any other in recent times, it has to be the forthcoming Shackleton MR.2 from Airfix. Produced with help

from the Shackleton Preservation Trust at Coventry, the kit will offer two colour schemes and has a superb amount of detail and alternative parts.

For now, enjoy these test-shot component photos, and we’ll bring you a full and exclusive build by Jennifer Wright in the next issue of AMW.

 Each two part mainwheel features block tread and includes integrally moulded weight effect.

 This is no bomber! Internal electronics are well captured with refined mouldings.

 The kit features raised and recessed surface detail throughout. Note the very neat flap falsework.

 Panel line treatment is even finer and shallower than previous new-tool Airfix kits.  Lancastrian heritage is evident instantly on the undercarriage bay parts.

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 Old-school Airfix rudder hinges; this may seem a basic approach, but it works!

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TEST-SHOT PREVIEW

AIRFIX 1/72 SHACKLETON

 Sturdy wing spars help give support for those long, long wings; visible here are the relevant slots in the fuselage side.

 Separate inserts cater for both early- and late-style exhausts on the engine nacelles.  It would almost be a shame to load this weapons bay with ordnance, such is the lovely detail.

 Two Mk.30 and two Mk.44 torpedoes are included.

 Soft furnishings are not forgotten, by Airfix or Avro. This curtain separates the main cabin from the cold rear fuselage... and the Elsan toilet!

 Early unshrouded exhausts, for aircraft before Phase 2 modifications were made.  More wheel bay features; the firewall and roof parts are anatomically correct and extremely well detailed for the scale.

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12/08/2015 11:05

INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-106 DELTA DART

Eric Larson presents Trumpeter’s recent 1/48 F-106A Delta Dart in Montana Air National Guard markings ast year Trumpeter ended Revell-Monogram’s threedecade reign of having the only 1/48 kit of Convair’s big delta-winged interceptor. Contrary to some rumours, this was not an updated copy of the Monogram kit but a newly engineered product and any similarities were merely because they were of the same subject, and in the same scale.

l

Getting Started Upon opening the box one was reminded what a big aircraft the F-106 was. Nine grey and two clear injection-moulded runners, and a small photo-etched (PE) brass fret were on offer; the transparencies were thoughtfully wrapped in soft foam to protect against scratches and scuffs. Florida and New Jersey Air National Guard markings, and an assortment of data stencils, were provided on the colourful kit decal sheet...but for this model the 186th FIS, Montana ANG scheme was chosen from Caracal Models’ Air National Guard F-106 Part 1 decal set (CD46060 – see panel).

Before the fuselage halves could be joined, several sub-assemblies required completion and these started with the cockpit. Montana ANG Delta Darts were unique in that their 'offices' were painted light blue instead of the usual Dark Gull Grey. Allegedly inspired by Russian MiG cockpits, no precise colour information was available but some sources stated the paint came from a local hardware store, and others that it was automotive paint. For this model, a mix of three parts Mr. Color 323 Light Blue to one part 316 White was applied to all cockpit surfaces,

BiGG SkY S

INTeRCEPtOR INTeRCEP tOR The instrument panel’s crisp raised features offered the option of painted or decal details.

 Best of both worlds...select sections were cut from the decal and applied after the panel received its base colour, after which the remaining details were painted.

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 The ejection seat arm guards were cut from the kit seat sides and attached to the True Details seat, which was missing these items.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-106 DELTA DART

The fit of the cockpit tub and nose gear bay was superb. Sharp-eyed readers will notice the nose strut is at the front...a blunder that went unnoticed until much later!

The True Details F-106 seat was a big improvement over the kit unit. Note the arm guards sourced from the latter's sides.

 Assorted engine parts prior to assembly. The exhaust tube halves were best painted at this time.

MODEL SPEC

including the ejection seat and fuselage sidewalls. The results matched colour photos of actual Montana aircraft found in the Detail & Scale book on the F-106. Decals were provided for the main instrument panel and side consoles, but better results were obtained by painting the crisp raised detail, though the instrument panel also received sections cut from its decal. A superb two-part control column and separate throttle unit further enhanced the wellappointed cockpit, but conversely

the kit fell short with the ejection seat. Simplistic in appearance and with anaemic PE belts and harnesses, it was replaced with True Details’ stunning resin F-106 Ejection Seat (48433, available from www.squadron.com). Though intended for Monogram’s kit, it is nearly a drop fit here...with the removal of the seat locator ridges on the cockpit floor being the only alteration needed. True Details’ seat lacked arm guards, which were removed from the kit seat sides, neatened and attached to the resin unit. The foot plate (kit part D1) also fitted perfectly on the resin seat, which lacked detail in that area. Side consoles received overall Model Master Acrylic Interior Black, and visual interest was added by painting selected panels dark

F-106 Delta Dart By:

Trumpeter

Stock Code: 02891 Scale:

1/48

Price:

£44.99

Available from: Pocketbond, www.pocketbond.co.uk

“ oNE WaS REMINDED WHAT A BIG AiRCRaFT THE F-106 wAs” Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-106 DELTA DART

dUelLING DaRTs A perennial favourite among Cold War aircraft modellers, Revell-Monogram’s F-106A was the only 1/48 Delta Dart injection-moulded kit available for more than 30 years. Unsurprisingly, following the appearance of Trumpeter’s rendition, the immediate question was how it compared to Monogram’s. Numerous differences exist between the two kits, but while a comprehensive comparison is not practical here, these few photos may begin to answer that question.

 Monogram’s one-piece lower wing and fuselage section also included the integral missile bay compared to Trumpeter’s smaller, simpler unit.

 Typical for its time, Monogram’s F-106A (top) featured raised panel lines whereas Trumpeter’s had fine engraved details. Besides the separate vertical fin and rudder, the latter’s fuselage halves featured a greater percentage of the airframe structure.

 The main gear well detail was moulded into Monogram’s upper wing section, while Trumpeter provided separate undercarriage bay and missile bay inserts.

 Both kit cockpits had sufficient raised detail, but Trumpeter’s (right) were crisper and with a more accurate instrument panel. Both featured the later tape-style instruments.

grey, while other raised details were picked out with light grey, white, red and yellow acrylic Vallejo and craft paints. Dry-brushed light grey enamel provided additional highlights to the consoles and instrument panel. With some models the seat can be left out until nearer completion and then installed through the cockpit opening, but tight tolerances made that option impractical here, and so the seat was

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also painted and cemented in place at this time. Other than the cockpit, F-106 interior areas were usually painted Interior Green so Colourcoats ACUS09 Interior Green was airbrushed on all appropriate parts, including the landing gear bays, main undercarriage doors, speed brakes, and aft fuselage interior; the missile bay was left unpainted as the decision was made to keep it closed. The nose undercarriage unit was then assembled as per the instructions, which indicated the strut, painted gloss white, be installed at this

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-106 DELTA DART

 Alclad paints, weathering pigments, and chalk pastels applied in layers gave the afterburner and nozzle a realistic heat and smoke stained appearance.

“ tHE ACTUAL AIrCRAFT wERE kEPT IN IMmACuLATE CONDiTIoN ” time. This was accomplished but as feared, the exposed lower strut section was soon knocked loose. Hindsight showed the upper strut section (part C13) could be installed as shown, trapped between the bay sidewalls, and the lower section attached later. Next, the engine unit (which comprised seven parts) was painted and assembled and the afterburner tube halves received MC78 Metallic Black on their inner surfaces prior to being joined. No effort was made to neaten the seams as being essentially a black hole, they were invisible. The end

caps were attached to the burner tube, after which it was trapped between the outer shell halves. The only seams of concern were those on the exhaust nozzle, which required care to avoid damage of the surrounding detail. Alclad Steel and Burnt Iron, and MC61 Burnt Iron were applied to the visible exhaust parts, with further heat and smoke effects achieved via black, brown, and tan pigments and pastel dust. Upon completion, these sub-assemblies (including the unpainted missile bay) were installed in the right fuselage half, which was then joined with the left.

Airframe assembly Each air intake comprised two plastic parts and a tiny PE grille, but the latter was omitted as it was not visible in reference photos. Prior to assembly the intake interiors were painted satin white and Model Master 1731 Aircraft Gray (FS 16473) with Alclad Polished Aluminium lips. The trunks only extended inward a few inches, ending in a featureless bulkhead which was painted matt black to give the illusion of depth when viewed from the front. Fit of the parts was very good and after attachment to the fuselage, just

very minor seam neatening was required. Attention then turned to the massive delta wing and began with drilling four holes as indicated in the lower one-piece section (into which the drop tanks would fit). Next, the main landing gear bay was assembled, details painted and a light weathering wash applied. A small cross brace (part C27) was attached in the wing, after which the gear bay was cemented in place. The lower wing was then joined to the fuselage underside following a little fettling to ensure a proper fit.

 With all required sub-assemblies installed, the fuselage halves were ready for joining.  Once the undercarriage bay parts had received Interior Green, features were picked out in silver, black, and dark grey and followed by a Burnt Umber oil wash to enhance the exquisite detail. Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-106 DELTA DART

“ MaIN UNDERCARRIAGE ASSEMBlIES wERE eNgINEeRED SUPERblY ” AftERMARkET unIFORMS As mentioned, after-market decals were employed for this build, in the shape of Caracal Models’ Air National Guard F-106 Part 1 (CD46060). It was a comprehensive offering with four separate sheets, including stencilling and national insignia, and it provided six different liveries: • F-106A 59-0129, Florida ANG • F-106B 57-2533, Florida ANG • F-106A 57-2494, Massachusetts ANG • F-106B 57-2524, Massachusetts ANG • F-106A 57-2478, Montana ANG • F-106B 57-2518, Montana ANG www.caracalmodels.com

The complex missile bay, into which a full brace of Falcons and a Genie could be mounted, was replicated brilliantly–literally a kit within a kit–but to preserve the sleek lines of the aircraft it was decided to display it closed. To ease this task, Trumpeter provided a one-piece cover that fitted perfectly into the bay opening. A minor detail missed on the cover was a centreline seam, where the left and right door pairs met, but it was added easily. The upper wing halves were then attached and clamped around the edges while the cement cured. In a departure from the instructions the flaps and ailerons were not

installed as shown, but set aside until later. Next, the vertical stabiliser was assembled with the rudder and speed brakes also reserved until closer to completion. Enlarging the fuselage slots slightly with a file allowed wiggle room when the fin was attached, after which just a small gap at the base front required filling. To prevent tail-sitting, 1oz (28g) of lead shot was placed in the radome and secured with a plug of two-part epoxy putty. At this time, the nose radome also prepared for later mounting of a Master Model metal pitot tube. As per Master Model’s instructions the kit pitot was cemented in place, and then cut

1.5mm from the base. A 1mm hole was then drilled into the end, into which the metal pitot would later fit. The radome was then cemented to the fuselage, followed by light sanding to neaten the join. The last part installed before painting preparation began was the refuelling receptacle insert, located on the forward fuselage spine.

Colours and markings Going over the airframe before painting commenced revealed several fine ridges along the forward fuselage lower sides, and uneven spots on the upper intakes. These were artefacts of the moulding process and were duly Due to the multiple colours, masking and painting the intake interiors was done prior to assembly.

The radome, filled with 1oz (28g) of lead shot and sealed with an epoxy putty plug, ensured the model would stay on its nose gear.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-106 DELTA DART

sanded smooth...any lost detail was reinstated. After masking the cockpit, wheel well openings, engine nozzle and intakes, the entire airframe was given several thin coats of Alclad Grey Primer. Once cured, this was sanded with wet Micro-Mesh abrasive cloth, followed by gentle buffing with a dry paper coffee filter. The standard F-106 finish was overall Air Defence Command (ADC) Gray FS 16473. After testing paints from several manufacturers, the best match found was Model Master 1731 Aircraft Gray enamel. Diluted with Gunze Mr. Color Leveling Thinner, several coats were airbrushed on the airframe

Preparing for the Master Model metal pitot required the kit part be cemented in place, and then clipped 1.5mm from the base. A 1mm hole was then drilled in the nose tip, into which the metal pitot fitted.

and all appropriate peripheral parts such as the drop tanks, undercarriage doors and speed brake exteriors. Use of Mr. Color thinner resulted in a satin-smooth finish with excellent coverage. After the grey dried overnight, the aft fuselage edge, intake lips, drop tank tips, and refuelling receptacle were masked and airbrushed with AK Interactive Xtreme Metal Polished Aluminum, except for the receptacle which received Alclad Steel. The Xtreme Metal sprayed as easily as Alclad but required a lengthier drying time. Applied over primer or other paint, it held up well to masking but lifted easily when tested on unpainted plastic. The transparencies were masked and painted ADC Gray on the outside frames while the interiors received the light blue mix. Thin lines representing the windscreen tension straps were painted olive green, while the area under the windscreen, including the divider, was painted Model Master Interior Black, after which the windscreen was attached with liquid cement. A Berna clamp applied gentle downward pressure on the windscreen to spread the base slightly and ensure a smooth join. Next, the vertical fin’s front corner edges and forward fuselage were masked and painted MC092 Semi-gloss Black. Prior to decal application the entire model then received a coat of Alclad Aqua Gloss acrylic clear. Though

The centre door panel line missing from the one-piece missile bay cover was first marked in pencil, and then scribed with a drafting divider. The lower point riding in the existing panel line ensured consistent width.

milky white in the bottle, Aqua Gloss dried to a durable crystalclear finish and had no visible effect on the bare-metal areas. Other than a few stencils from the kit sheet, all decals came from the aforementioned Caracal set. Printed by Cartograf, they responded well to Micro Set and Sol. For touch-up on the rudder and fin trailing edges, a mix of three parts MC080 Cobalt Blue

and one part MC065 Bright Blue matched the decals’ dark blue. Another coat of Aqua Gloss sealed the decals in preparation for the following weathering. As the actual Air National Guard aircraft were kept in immaculate condition, weathering was limited to subtle panel highlighting for which a sludge wash made from MIG Productions’ Industrial City Dirt, distilled water, and

Liquid cement applied along the lower edges secured the windscreen, while a Berna clamp provided gentle pressure to ensure a perfect fit.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-106 DELTA DART

WHAt' S WROnG WITH THIS PIcTURe?

Airframe painting was completed, decals were applied and sealed, and it was time to finish installing the undercarriage. But why was the nose door strut’s mounting hole on the side opposite of that shown in the instructions? Had Trumpeter made a mistake? Suddenly, with a sickening feeling, the truth hit... the nose gear bay was installed backwards! How one could spend months scrutinising reference photos and instruction diagrams, all of which clearly showed the F-106’s nose gear was located at the bay’s aft end, without noticing this construction blunder was a mystery. Obviously the bay couldn’t be removed and reinstalled, nor could the model be submitted for publication in this state. Once clear thinking was restored, a suggestion given by fellow AMW contributor Peter Johnson, to reposition just the strut assembly, was attempted.

 Though reversed, the nose gear bay still fitted fine and gave no warning that something was amiss.

A pigment wash made from MIG Industrial City Dirt, water, and dishwashing liquid was used to highlight panel lines and detail subtly, without detracting from the clean appearance maintained on the real aircraft.

 In a partial correction, the strut assembly was freed from the bay, and blemishes were neatened and repainted.

 To secure the strut in its proper location, the upper section was drilled and a steel pin fitted, which in turn inserted into a hole drilled in the bay roof. A small block of Evergreen styrene strip, attached to the shortened retraction strut’s end, allowed it to clear an internal bulkhead.

 All’s well that ends well! Without being informed of the mistake it’s unlikely anyone other than a retired F-106 maintainer would notice the bay details were reversed. Note that unlike the main gear doors, the nose door inside is painted ADC Gray.

dishwashing liquid was used. Applied along all engraved panel lines, the wash was allowed to dry before any excess was removed with a moist cloth and cotton buds, while a final Aqua Gloss coat sealed the wash.

Starting at the front, the nose gear leg knocked loose earlier was drilled, pinned, and repaired with cyanoacrylate (CA) glue. Next, an attempt to attach the nose gear door led to the horrifying

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 Thin strips of Tamiya tape, backfilled with 3M Blue Painters’ Tape, were used to mask the tricky curved area on the forward fuselage and nose prior to applying the satin black.

Underside adventure

discovery that the gear bay had been installed backwards! How this was rectified is described in the accompanying panel. Once the strut had been relocated the door was cemented in place successfully. The complex main undercarriage assemblies were engineered superbly, and though positioning the retraction struts was somewhat fiddly, when completed the solid fit left no doubt of their ability to support the heavy model. At this point a small inaccuracy with the mains was discovered. Trumpeter had the retraction struts attached to the back of both gear legs, but on the actual aircraft the port retraction strut was at the back

while the starboard unit went on the front. As it happens, Monogram got this detail correct. The fit of the undercarriage doors was also good, but care was needed with the inner doors due to their delicate Y-shaped struts. The kit wheels were usable but it was decided to use a set of Royale Resin late-style F-106 wheels (R059) originally purchased for Monogram’s kit. Trumpeter’s main undercarriage bay shafts were smaller in diameter than Monogram’s, and so sleeves cut from 3/32in (2.3mm) aluminium tubing and inserted into the two wheels ensured a proper fit. Mounting holes were then drilled

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-106 DELTA DART

“ POSITIONING THE RETRACTION STRUTS WAS FIDDLY ”

Each main landing gear strut comprised seven finely moulded parts, which resulted in a complex and rugged unit capable of supporting the model’s weight.

 The Royale Resin wheels, originally made for the Monogram kit, required inserts cut from aluminium tubing because of Trumpeter’s smaller diameter axles.

into the nose wheels, with care taken not to go through the outer hub. All gear legs and wheels were painted gloss white, except for the inner mainwheels on which Alclad Magnesium was used, and the tyres received MC137 Tire Black. The brake assemblies were painted Citadel Boltgun Metal while various struts were either bare-metal or Interior Green. Details were then highlighted with AK Interactive Landing Gear Wash, applied with a fine spotter brush. Finally, the wheels were attached with thick CA gel, which gave sufficient work time to ensure

proper alignment. Remaining fuselage underside details were added next and included the extended ram air turbine, beacon, arrester hook and assorted blade antennas. The latter were sourced from Quickboost’s F-106 Antennas set (48650) and replaced the overly thick kit parts. Lastly, the drop tanks and aileron actuators were cemented in place under the wings.

Turning topside With the model right side up, the rudder was installed followed by the open speed brakes. This proved to be a tricky undertaking, because the attachment points between the brake petals and tailfin did not provide a secure fit. Holding them in place and keeping the actuators aligned until the glue set had one wishing for a third hand! The ailerons and flaps were then attached, the mounting tabs being moulded at an angle to ensure the proper drooped position usually seen on parked F-106s. Moving forward, the upper beacon, painted Tamiya Clear Red, was glued in place on the fuselage spine. The canopy assembly was then completed as per the instructions and secured in

 Quickboost’s resin F-106 Antenna set provided perfect replacements for the kit’s overly thick parts. Also included was an angle-of-attack vane far superior to the kit’s PE unit.  The complex main undercarriage was engineered soundly and certainly looked the part. Small embellishments visible here are lightening holes drilled in the outer door edges.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-106 DELTA DART

The red tail hook added a splash of colour to the underside. Also visible here are the Quickboost datalink antennas.

 Angled mounting tabs ensured properly drooped ailerons and flaps. Moulded wing tip position lights were enhanced with Testors Chrome Silver, Tamiya Clear Red or Green, and a drop of Envirotex Lite two-part resin.

Rear view mirrors fitted to later F-106s were supplied in the kit as PE parts. The upper item required trimming to fit in the canopy peak.

 Though not normally seen as such on parked aircraft, the extended ram air turbine and open hatches added minor visual interest. Note the underside beacon, which was painted silver and then Tamiya Clear Red.

the open position with Gator’s Grip Hobby Glue. Trumpeter provided just the late-style bubble transparency, which is fine for the markings provided. But if one wanted to build an earlier version, the older two-part canopy would have to be sourced elsewhere. Perhaps a future release will offer this option. The tiny resin angle-of-attack vane from the Quickboost antenna set was cemented in place on the left forward fuselage and last of all, the Master Model metal pitot was inserted into the radome and secured with CA gel.

A thing of beauty To this day the F-106 remains one of the most attractive aircraft ever made. While not perfect, Trumpeter’s effort is a worthy, albeit costlier, successor to RevellMonogram’s aged classic, although the latter can still be built into an impressive model. While not recommended for a beginner, the

ERING “ SoLID ENgINeERING SURE MADE iT A PLEaSURE UILd ” TO bUILd

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superior fit and solid engineering of Trumpeter’s kit made it a pleasure to build...and it more than captured the graceful lines of the prototype. And if a new-tool 1/48 F-106A wasn’t cause enough to celebrate, Trumpeter has just released its F-106B...the first injection-moulded kit of the twoseat Delta Dart in any scale (see On ❚ the Shelf, p.81).

rEFeRENCEs Convair F-106 Delta Dart, Aero Series #27 by William G. Holder (Aero Publishers), ISBN: 0-81680600-4 F-106 Delta Dart in Detail & Scale #13 by Bert Kinzey (Aero Publishers), USA ISBN: 0-81685027-5, UK ISBN: 0-85368-611-4 F-106 Delta Dart in Action #15 by Capt Don Carson and Lou Drendel (Squadron/Signal), ISBN: 0-89747014-1 Convair Deltas From SeaDart to Hustler by Bill Yenne (Specialty Press), ISBN: 978-1-58007-118-5

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IN FOCUS

F-106 DELTA DART  A two-seat F-106B belonging to the 125th FIG, out of Jacksonville, Florida flies up the coast of its home state. Convair produced slightly more than 60 units of the ‘B’ model. (Robert Mason)

The career of the awesome F-106 Delta Dart is described by Warren E Thompson

SiX-SHoOtER b eginning in the late 1940s, the need to protect the Continental United States suddenly had top priority due to the possible threats from the Soviet Union. Later in that decade, the F-82 Twin Mustang started on air defence and quickly the jets took over; the F-89 and F-94. Finally in April 1956, Convair rolled out its new delta-winged interceptor in the form of the F-102 Delta Dagger. It put the air defence of America on a much higher level, against whatever the Russians were working on. Convair did not rest on its laurels, though, as just over three years later, it improved

on the Delta Dagger with its F-106 Delta Dart. A very sleek fuselage allowed a top speed of Mach 2.3, which gave it close to twice the speed of the ‘102.

More bang for the (rising) buck The cost of the improvements and more sophisticated systems had heightened the price of the F-106 considerably in just a few years. The basic price of the F-102 had been about $1.2 million while the F-106 had jumped to $4.7 million. Instead of the planned initial order for 1,000 units of the Delta Dart, the order was cut for 150 airframes. With further quantities

added, this would eventually break down to 277 of the F-106A and 63 of the F-106B (trainer); these were the final production counts delivered by Convair. It was not just speed that made it so effective, but its firepower was outstanding and designed to take out enemy bombers. The Hughes MA-1 integrating fire control system could be linked to a SemiAutomatic Ground Environment (SAGE) network for ground control interception missions, and this gave ground controllers a chance lead the interceptors directly to inbound targets. A clear example of this was demonstrated at the end of March 1960, when an

F-106A left Palmdale, California at 11:48am and landed at Tyndall AFB after a 3hr 12min flight. The pilot was Major Frank Forsyth, who only took off and landed the aircraft, with no hands on for the rest of the flight. Four months earlier in December 1959, Joe M Rogers set a world air speed record of 1,525.95mph (2,456km/h) in the F-106, at 40,500ft (12,300m). The F-106 was similar to its earlier cousin the Delta Dagger, in that it had no guns and did not carry bombs. It was designed to carry missiles inside its internal weapons bay, which allowed it to reach a high Mach number with its clean lines. Armament included four Hughes AIM-4 Falcon air-to-air missiles, and a single sub-kiloton nuclear-tipped warhead GAR-11 / AIM-26A Falcon. Instead of the AIM-26A, it could also carry the 1.5 kiloton- warhead Genie air-to-air missile. This was to be fired into a large Soviet bomber formation, to bring down several bombers at once if required.

A growing force

A pair of 318th FIS Delta Darts in formation over the west coast of the US. During this time they operated from McChord AFB in Washington State. The squadron had been in the nightfighter business since its P-61 Black Widow days in 1944, but it stayed in the all-weather realm through the F-106 era. (Dennis Kelsey)

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Entry into regular fighter squadron inventory was steady, with more than 20 outfits getting the F-106, and the Air National Guard assumed the air defence role later on, with nine squadrons receiving it. The majority of these units served at bases in the eastern

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IN FOCUS

F-106 DELTA DART

One of the major deployments for the F-106 was to Osan AB in South Korea, right after the North Koreans captured the USS Pueblo, causing a major international incident. These 95th FIS aircraft are parked at Osan AB during that deployment. (Joe Olshefski)

The 94th and 95th Squadrons rotated shifts in Korea during the Pueblo Crisis. These armourers are preparing AIM-4s to go on a Delta Dart that is getting ready to move over to the alert pad. (Joe Olshefski via WT)

and western United States, along with Alaska and Iceland. In talking with several F-106 pilots, they all said that intercepting Soviet longrange reconnaissance aircraft was the most interesting and exciting mission they flew. Lt Col Raymond Niemotka recalls a mission in which he met with a Tu-95 Bear: “They usually approached us from

two routes; in over Nova Scotia, along the east coast and they ended up in Cuba, and the other route was from North Africa to Cuba and then north up the coast. Normally we had about two hours’ notice but when there was no warning, we were supposed to be airborne in five minutes. This was difficult in the winter

because we had to don survival gear due to the cold weather up around Iceland. The Bears always came in pairs and flew a ten mile trail formation. Their pilots didn’t do anything unusual and they followed the coastline. They would rarely turn inbound and the distance from the US or Canadian coast varied from 50-300 miles (80-483km) and their altitude varied from 10,000-30,000ft (3,048-9,144m). They were mainly testing our response times and whether we could locate them and, on occasion, they dropped sonobuoys and looked for our submarines. One time I intercepted them about 50 miles of the coast of Virginia, where the Bears came to look at our new nuclear aircraft carrier, the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70). On one occasion, I was pulling alert at Homestead AFB in southern Florida while their unit was transitioning to the F-16. We were warned that the Bears were coming down the coast from the north. It was unusual that

our fighter group intercepted the Bears off the Jersey coast and then we took over with our fighters off the Florida coast because we were in place with our New Jersey aircraft, at two different bases. I’m sure the Russians couldn’t figure that one out. Our time on an intercept lasted from about one hour to over five hours.” Lt Col Niemotka continued: “While on alert, we were armed with live weapons. The F-106 normally had two radar missiles and two heat seeking missiles and an underbelly, internally mounted 20mm Gatling gun. The Delta Dart was also capable of carrying a special weapon called the Genie, which was a nuclear rocket that would travel five times the speed of sound. We had to fire these ‘things’ without the warhead once a year at Tyndall AFB in Florida. It was a pretty impressive sight to see one of these launched from another F-106. Supposedly the Soviets were terrified of this weapon…and so were we,  This 120th FIG F-106B prepares to leave for Otis AFB on June 26, 1987. This was the penultimate ‘106 to depart from the 186th Squadron base as it transitioned to the F-16. (186th Archives)

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IN FOCUS

F-106 DELTA DART

Most fighter squadrons in the US celebrated the United States' 200th birthday in 1976. This 125th Fighter Group F-106A displays its stunning bicentennial scheme over Jacksonville, Florida. (Robert Mason)

because we had no idea of what would happen after we executed our escape manoeuvre! Of course there would be nothing to come home to if the bombers were carrying nukes. We had other concerns about the Russian-held laser guns that could blind us after intercepting the Bears. We wore gold-plated visors for that but we had no idea if they would work. However, our main concern was flying 300 miles off the coast of New Jersey in the winter, at night, in a single-engine fighter!”

that tour: “Due to the position in the US defence, Dart squadrons took frequent no-notice alerts and scrambles very seriously. An exercise codenamed Flush, simulating a high probability of missile attack in advance of

bomber penetration, started with an alert call at 12:25am on a very black, cold winter morning. Five hundred-plus airmen started blowing snow with the temperatures hovering around -28 below. At 1:40am, all 26 of

the squadron’s ‘106s were ready on the flightline. Five minutes later, all were ready to taxi out. At 2:07am, the orders came to start Flush take-off and 25 jets roared to life, while one cold-soaked bird burst her hydraulic lines and bled, motionless, in the snow. Six minutes later, all of the others were airborne. We went through several more of these, which kept our pilots well qualified to handle any alerts regardless of weather.” The ‘106 was considered for combat use in Vietnam, although it never did get into action and was never bought or used by foreign air forces. With constant upgrades, which included an in-flight refuelling receptacle and an arresting hook for any landing emergencies, the Delta Dart was getting its share of attention. However, the USAF was ordered to conduct Operation Highspeed, which was to be a competition

Sled-driver’s view One of the top pilots to fly the F-106 was Col Jack Broughton, who led many missions up into Route Pack 6 around Hanoi, North Vietnam in the F-105 Thunderchief...the famous ‘Sled’. He would later get many hours in the ‘Six’ and comments on

This 456th FIS Delta Dart is taxiing out at Hill AFB, Utah, but its home base was Castle AFB, California. The unit competed in the William Tell Weapons meet three times and finished in first place in 1961. (Al Wimer)

 A 49th FIS Delta Dart sits hangared at Griffiss AFB, New York, in June 1987. In early October 1979, the 49th transferred from ADC into TAC and by the mid-1980s it became the last active squadron in the USAF to fly the F-106. All its surviving aircraft were flown to the ‘Boneyard’ at Davis-Monthan. (49th FIS Archives)

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IN FOCUS

F-106 DELTA DART

between the F-106 and the Navy’s F-4B Phantom. The contest was won by the latter, which would first be given the duties of escort and later replace the F-105 in the late 1960s. In the early 1970s, they were to replace F-106s in Air Defense Command. Ultimately, though, it was not the F-4B that started replacing the F-106, as the F-15A got that role in 1981. The remaining ‘106s were moved into Air National Guard squadrons and the Delta Darts remained in service until August 1988, when the remaining few went to the ‘Boneyard’ at Davis Monthan AFB. Starting in 1986, many of those Darts in the Boneyard were converted into drones, which changed their designation to QF-106A and these provided great target practice for more advanced fighters. Just a small

handful of F-106s were used by NASA for various test purposes through 1998. According to USAF records, at the end of fiscal year 1981, approximately 40 per cent of the 215 F-106s in service would be flown by ANG units. The operational career of the F-106 was fairly straightforward; it provided flawless security for both coastlines and anything coming down through Canada. Travel-wise, the type only had two major deployments to Germany and South Korea. The mission of the air defence pilot was to stand by on alert and intercept anything heading for US airspace. F-106s became very effective in formating on long-range Soviet bombers, and the Russians were constantly checking the response time in order to gauge the weak spot... ❚ which they never found.

 An F-106 fires a Falcon missile at a target off the coast of Florida; the darkness below is simply the ocean’s surface. (New Jersey 177th)

 Young pilots with the 317th FIS receive sage advice from the legendary Col Chuck Yeager in October 1965. The aircrew were flying the F-106 ith Air Defense Command on the west coast. (Bruce Chavis)

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD

BLOHM & VOSS Bv v 141

Garry Tobiss details and corrects Hobby Boss’ 1/48 Bv 141 Luftwaffe reconnaissance aircraft lohm and Voss’ Bv 141 was undoubtedly one of the strangest designs ever to fly, but wasn’t the first to use an asymmetric layout.

That honour lay with the Gotha VI, developed towards the end of World War One, although it just reached the prototype stage. Intended as a reconnaissance

aircraft, the Bv 141 was the brainchild of Richard Vogt, and the unusual layout, with crew section offset from the main fuselage, was considered ideal for visibility. Although the aircraft performed quite well, it shared the same BMW engine as the Focke-Wulf Fw 190, which had a much higher production priority. It also had no obvious advantage over its Fw 189 rival, and was eventually cancelled. However, there were disputed claims of at least one Bv 141 mission on the Eastern Front, as evidenced by an enigmatic reference from 1942, which stated “A curious German aircraft appeared in the Russian skies at the battle of Kertch in May 1942: the asymmetric Bv 141” (quoted in Aéro Journal No. 25, June 2002).

A simple build?  Due to its unusual configuration, the majority of parts were used to construct the cockpit, although Eduard’s photo-etched metal added welcome detail.

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Hobby Boss’ Bv 141 was supplied on three light grey and four clear runners, the latter wrapped in protective foam to avoid

damage, and a decal sheet. Most components were for the detailed crew area, although the overall parts count was low. Research into the type revealed a series of small problems with the kit. Surface detail was finely rendered but, despite being shown on the box artwork, was virtually absent over large sections of the rear fuselage. Curiously, Hobby Boss supplied a propeller that had been moulded back-to-front, and an after-market replacement was sought. Fortunately, the Editor had an Eduard 1/48 Fw 190A-8 in his own stash, which contained a spare paddle-blade propeller and cooling fan, and this was duly incorporated. Last, but not least, several kitsupplied national insignia decals, plus a number of paint codes for the colour schemes proved to be incorrect (see panel). Three aftermarket sets were utilised in the build; Eduard’s Bv 141 self-adhesive photo-etched metal (PE) upgrade (49699) and Die-cut Flexible

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD

BLOHM & VOSS Bv 141

Two options were provided: • Bv 141B-0 (V10), NC+RA • Bv 141B-1, GK+GH Research indicated that the national markings and camouflage for NC+RA were inaccurate. The underwing crosses on this aircraft did not have black outlines, and the kit items were replaced with examples from AIMS Models’ Ju 88 National Insignia set (48 D003). Hobby Boss identified RLM 02 Grey as being part of the colour scheme, whereas RLM 70 Black Green was a more likely shade.

 In addition to the pre-painted cockpit embellishments, Eduard PE parts also enhanced the detail in the undercarriage bays and on the airframe exterior.

 Although not very apparent, the fuselage between the trailing edge of the wing to the leading edge of the tailplane was almost devoid of any surface detail.

Mask (EX443) and Scale Aircraft Conversions’ white-metal landing gear (48267).

Offset office

through which much detail was visible, and Hobby Boss thoughtfully provided sufficient parts to make the cockpit look respectable. Curiously, the

MODEL SPEC

The Bv 141 had a veritable greenhouse for the crew area,

Blohm & Voss Bv 141 By:

Hobby Boss

Stock Code: 81728 Scale:

1/48

Price:

£31.99

Available from: Creative Models, www.creativemodels.co.uk

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD

BLOHM & VOSS Bv v 141

Two editions of the French language Aéro Journal series proved invaluable during the build and were used until the Valiant Wings book arrived. Although both issues were in French, the abundant reference photographs proved highly useful. For this build they aided in the identification of the correct markings and colour schemes, and the addition of missing panel lines to the fuselage. They are available from www.caraktere.com

interior colour was specified as RLM 66 Schwartzgrau; however, the Bv 141 was an early war aircraft, and therefore more likely to have been painted RLM 02 Grau. Unfortunately, Eduard’s PE set followed the kit scheme, which included the incorrect RLM 66. For

this build, the instrument panels were not corrected, but other areas had the PE detail masked, before being repainted Lifecolor UA 071 Grey RLM 02. The PE added significantly to the cockpit, and included rudder pedals, seat straps and a very delicate bomb sight. Valiant Wings’ reference book was invaluable in determining the layout of the rear gunner’s

 The engines and nacelles were fairly basic, but this was mitigated by the detail subsequently being hidden behind the cooling fan.

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position, as no seat was provided and Eduard incorrectly specified that straps should be added to the floor. Fortuitously, a photograph confirmed that a seat was present and one was duly scratch-built from the foot of a 1/35 Panzer jack. Various features were accentuated with black pre-shading prior to the application of RLM 02, and several washes, plus lighter and

darker shades of the basic colour, provided depth before highlights were added with silver. The crew gondola was then dropped into the lower wing part, ready for the next stage of assembly. Note that the lower part of the canopy was then added immediately; this protected the fragile bomb sight, and although the addition of the upper section appeared a

 This view of the kit propeller (left) and the Eduard replacement shows clearly the rather curious error made by Hobby Boss...it’s backwards!

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD

BLOHM & VOSS Bv 141

challenge, Hobby Boss’ engineering ensured that such fears were unfounded. Just slight pressure from masking tape and a clamp was required to hold the parts together.

Rapid assembly From this point onwards, build progress was swift. The Bv 141 featured a very noticeable walkway on the wing, and although not included in the kit, Eduard’s set came to the rescue. Dymo Tape was used to outline the walkway area, and the surface of the wing was scraped gently, which ensured the PE was flush with the remainder of the surface. Fuselage assembly was simple, and join seams were made good with a trusty Flexi-File from Albion Alloys (www.albionalloys.

co.uk). Any detail lost was then reinstated with a scribing tool and templates. Panel lines omitted by Hobby Boss (see panel) were then added, with frequent referrals to the Aéro Journal and Valiant Wings publications to produce a representative, rather than completely accurate set of demarcations. A conspicuous gap was noted between the front of the engine cowling and the fuselage, but as this did not appear in any photos of actual aircraft, it was filled and sanded smooth. Small amounts of filler were also required to hide the seams between the upper and lower sections of the canopy. A quick tip at this stage of the build: don’t attach the bomb racks until the very end, after the markings have been applied, because the code letter decals are located across these positions.

 A combination of kit parts plus Eduard PE resulted in a very detailed crew area...the lower canopy section has already been added to protect the fragile bomb sight.

Testing colours Of the two schemes, the Bv 141B-0 (V10) variant was chosen, as there were two very  Wing panels were represented with finely engraved lines. The wheel well, although basic, also exhibited delicately moulded internal rib and rivet details.

Aéro Journal No. 25, June-July 2002, Blohm und Voss Bv 141 ‘Un Mouton à cinq pattes’ Aéro Journal Hors-serie No. 6, July-August 2010, Les Camouflagues de la Luftwaffe 1936-1945 The Blohm & Voss Bv 141: A Technical Guide, by Richard A. Franks (Valiant Wings), ISBN: 978-0-9575866-7-3

One Bv 141 ready for painting, with canopy masks applied. Note the PE walkway strip on the wing and the filler applied to the engine nacelle.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD

BLOHM & VOSS Bv 141

The missing detail on the rear fuselage was re-scribed with RB Productions’ Scribe-R series of PE blades, which were fitted into an X-Acto knife handle, and Airwaves scribing templates.

Masking tape was marked with the gaps between the fuselage bands and thin strips of Dymo Tape were then added at the correct spacing.  RB’s Scribe-R toolset (top left) provided a holder plus three blades, three files (bottom left), which could be used for scribing freehand or with templates...the Rivet-R riveting tool was not used in this build.  Tests showed that the Scribe-R tool was the most suitable instrument for this build. Its precision meant that it was very easy to use and led to excellent results.  The Scribe-R tool removed a thin sliver of styrene, but left a tiny ridge on either side; however, the Scribe-R file created a furrow although it removed less material.

clear photos of this aircraft in the reference books. While one portrayed a factory- fresh finish, the second indicated evidence of weathering, with several panels displaying visibly different shades. Of note, a picture in Aéro Journal was clear enough to reveal a rather scruffy hand-written ‘V10’ on the

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rear fuselage. It was therefore decided to try and capture the essence of an experimental aircraft, engaged in what was probably an intensive test programme. Masking the intricate window sections on the canopy looked daunting but luckily, Eduard masks were available. These took

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD

BLOHM & VOSS Bv v 141

considerable time to apply but were infinitely preferable to making masks from scratch. Gunze’s Mr. Finishing Surfacer 1500 Gray was applied as a primer, directly from the spray can. Care was required here, because an aerosol would be nowhere near as controllable as an airbrush, but the end result was a very smooth, hard, yet thin layer of primer...and no need for cleaning afterwards! Black pre-shading was then applied along just the lower surface panel lines, as RLM 70 was deemed too dark for this technique to have any effect on the uppers. A thin coat of UA061 Bright Blue RLM 65 followed, which allowed the black to show through. References indicated that the Bv 141 camouflage scheme was a combination of hard- and soft-edged colours, plus variations in styles between the different airframes. Masking tape was used for the hard demarcations, with Blu-Tack for the soft. The splinter scheme was replicated with UA502

Published in 2014, this was a very useful information source that included an impressive selection of photographs, charting the development of the Bv 141 from prototype through to the later versions. It comprised four sections, namely history, technical details, camouflage and markings and a build article on the Hobby Boss kit. The technical detail section contained a wealth of line drawings and detail photographs, which focussed on the crew gondola, undercarriage, control surfaces, wings, engine, nacelle, weapons, electrical equipment and access panels. In short this publication was excellent, capped by the surprising amount of weathering depicted in the photographs, and was referred to constantly during the build. For further details visit: www.valiantwings.co.uk

Dunkelgrun RLM 71, followed by UA501 Schwartzgraun RLM 70 once the pattern had been masked...here the Valiant Wings profiles were invaluable as a guide. An Aéro Journal photo provided inspiration for the ‘worked’ finish, and although it was unclear whether several panels were bare metal or primer, and artistic licence was employed, with RLM 02 the colour of choice. The model then received three thin brushapplied coats of Johnson’s Pledge Floor Care Finish (which seems to be the replacement for Future/ Klear) before decals were applied. Various adjustments were

made to the markings, due to a combination of differences between individual aircraft and accuracy issues with Hobby Boss’ decals. Reference photographs indicated that at least the underwing crosses on aircraft V10 lacked a black edge, so these were removed with a new scalpel blade. Surgery was also needed to cut these crosses, because it appeared that a replacement panel was either painted or added across them.

Final touches The removal of canopy masks is always a moment of truth...had

 Once the masks had been removed, the basic splinter pattern was completed. Unfortunately, there were no photos which showed how far the primed panels extended around the wing and fuselage, so this part of the finish was speculative. Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD

BLOHM & VOSS Bv v 141

 Although the kit-supplied undercarriage was more than adequate in terms of detail, it was decided to replace the styrene parts with white metal versions from Scale Aircraft Conversions.  The PE main undercarriage doors displayed a more subtle approach to surface detail, as well as a completely different pattern. It was not clear which of the two designs was correct.

those here been pressed onto the part with enough force to create a good seal? Thankfully, there was no need to worry, as Eduard’s products performed superbly, and the result was a crystal-clear view into the crew gondola, which brought the model to life. Assembly of the undercarriage followed, with the white metal replacements being a simple drop-in for the kit components. However, as supplied, the result was incorrect alignment, as the oleos were splayed, rather than perpendicular to the wing... this was corrected with small pieces of scrap plastic, added to the struts where they joined the undercarriage bay. The tailwheel, aerial and mid-gun was attached next, and the finishing touch was the addition of two small PE items under the wings. A combination of washes and pigments were used for the weathering, and this completed the build.

Does it fly? Hobby Boss has created a kit that has captured the strange lines of this very singular aircraft. It was easy to build, although some intervention was required to correct mistakes as described. As usual, Eduard’s PE added a huge amount of extra detail, and the RB Productions Scribe-R tool was a revelation. This modeller has several different scribing tools but none came close to the Scribe-R for usability and quality of the

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result. Eduard’s canopy masks are also recommended highly, for their accuracy and amount of time saved. In summary and despite the adjustments, it was a great build that resulted in a striking model. ❚

AIMS Decals www.aimsmodels.co.uk 48 D003 Ju 88 National Insignia Gunze www.albionhobbies.com Mr. Finishing Surfacer 1500 Gray Eduard www.eduard.com EX443 Bv 141 Die-cut flexible mask 49699 Bv 141 Self-adhesive PE Upgrade Lifecolor www.airbrushes.com UA061 Bright Blue RLM 65 UA071 Grey RLM 02 UA501 Schwartzgrun RLM 70 UA502 Dunkelgrun RLM 71 UA733 Tyre Black RB Productions www.radubstore.com RB-T019 Scribe-R Panel Scribing Tool RB-T037 Scribe-R File Scale Aircraft Conversions www.scaleaircraftconversions.com 48267 Blohm & Voss Bv 141 Landing Gear (HB)

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Jan and Tony’s (formerly with The Aviation Hobby Shop) new showroom and retail counter IS NOW OPEN on the 2nd Floor, Bignell House, Horton Road, West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 8EJ, we are now open for business from Monday thru Saturdays 10.00 - 16.00 hrs. Plenty of free parking. We carry a varied range of aviation related books from most publishers, and a large range of plastic kits & accessories. We offer a 10% discount for ATC Squadrons, IPMS members and genuine Model Clubs/Societies on over the counter sales on production of a current membership card.We are attending numerous aviation related events, Fly-ins, conventions and a number model Please come and shows. We look forward to seeing you soon. We see us at the w now accept most major credit cards, cheques and sho ord Telf S IPM er postal orders to be made payable to AJ Aviation. 7th/8th Novemb POST FREE IN THE UK, OVERSEAS AT COST.

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AF4177A AF4178 AF4178A AF4170 AF4172 AF5171 AF4170 AF4172

Boeing 727 (Air Canada/Alitalia) ..... £14.99 Boeing 737 (Air New Zealand Ansett). £14.99 Boeing 737 (Southwest/Britannia)... £14.99 Boeing 707 (British Airways)........... £10.99 Boeing 314 Clipper........................ £10.99 Boeing 707 (BOAC/Air India) .......... £16.99 Boeing 707 (British Airways)........... £10.99 Boeing 314 Clipper........................ £10.99

AIRFIX 1/24 scale AF19002 Hawker Typhoon Mk.1B ................. £99.99 BLUE MAX 1/48 scale BM116 Phonix D-01 Scout ........................ £21.99 BM118 Halbersadt D-II Scout..................... £22.45 BM201 Roland C.11 “Walfisch” ................. £24.99 BM202 Halberstadt CL.II............................ £24.95 BM207 Vickers FB.5 Gun Bus .................... £24.99 BM208 Macchi M5 Flying Boat .................. £24.99 DRAGON MODELS 1/48 scale DRA5512 Messerschmitt Me 262B-1A w Engine .................................................... £35.99 DRA5528 Junkers Ju 88A-4 Schnell-Bomber. £49.99 DRAGON MODELS 1/32 scale DRA3207 Messerschmitt Bf 110D-1/R-1 ..... £105.00 DRA3224 P-51K Mustang with Rocket Launcher £49.99 DRAGON MODELS 1/48 scale DISCONTINUED DRA5502 Focke Wulf Fw 190A-8 .................. £35.99 DRA5508 He 162A-2 Salamander ................. £35.99 DRA5513 Ju 88A-6 W Balloon Cutter ............ £47.50 DRA5516 Ba 349A Natter with Launch Tower. £34.99 DRA5524 Focke Wulf Fw 190 A-4 “JG1”........ £27.50 DRA5534 Focke Wulf Fw 190 D-12 Torpedo Plane .................................................... £27.50 DRA5537 Focke Wulf Fw 190G-3 Long Range Fighter .................................................... £23.99 DRA5541 Messerschmitt Me 262 Mistel ....... £28.50 DRA5545 Focke Wulf Fw 190A-7 with Slipper Tank .................................................... £29.99 DRA5546 He 162 Mistel ............................... £29.99 DRA5547 Ba 349D Test Flight ....................... £47.50 DRA5551 Messerschmitt Me 163 Komet with engine .................................................... £34.99 EDUARD 1/144 scale EDU4423 Junkers Ju 52/3m......................... £13.99 EDU4424 Junkers Ju 52/3m......................... £11.50 EDU4425 Mikoyan MiG 21MF (Dual Combo) .. £13.99 EDU4426 Mikoyan MiG 21SMT (Dual Combo) £13.99 EDU4427 MiG 21bis (Dual Combo) ................ £13.99 EDU4428 Spitfire Mk.IXe (Dual Combo).......... £10.99 EDU4429 Spitfire Mk.IXc (Dual Combo).......... £10.99 EDU4430 Junkers Ju 87G (Dual Combo)........ £10.99

EDK4431 Junkers Ju 87B (Dual Combo)....... £10.99 EDU4441 MiG 15 (Dual Combo) (Czech AF)... £11.75 EDUARD 1/32 scale EDU3002 Messerschmitt Bf 109E profipack... £44.99 EDU3003 Messerschmitt Bf 109E-4 profipack £44.99 EDU3004 Messerschmitt Bf 109E-4/7 Tropical (Profipack)..................................... £44.99 EDU3401 Messerschmitt Bf 109 E-1 (Weekend ver) .................................................... £24.99 EDU3402 Messerschmitt Bf 109 E-3 (Weekend ver) .................................................... £27.00 EDU3403 Messerschmitt Bf 109 E-4 (Weekend ver) .................................................... £28.50 EMHAR 1/72 scale EM3001 McDonnell F3H-2 Demon............... £12.99 EM3002 McDonnell F3H-2N/2M Demon ...... £12.99 EM3003 Lockheed F-94C Starfire (Early)...... £12.99 EM3004 Lockheed F-94C Starfire (Late)....... £12.99 FINE MOLDS 1/48 scale FMFB1 Kugisho D4Y1/D4Y2 Judy .............. £29.95 FMFB2 IJA Type 1 Fighter Oscar (Ki-43 Early) £19.45 FMFB3 Nakajima Ki43 III Koh Oscar ........... £24.45 FMFB4 IJA Type 1 Fighter Oscar (Ki-43 Late) £21.95 FMFB11 Mitsubishi A7M1 Reppu Model II Sam £29.45 FMFB12 Mitsubishi A7M2 Reppu Model II Sam £25.95 FMFB13 IJA Type 95 Fighter ....................... £23.95 FMFB14 IJA Type 95 Fighter Perry “Kato’s Fighter Sq .................................................... £25.49 FM499138 IJA Type 95 Ki 10-II “Perry”............ £23.45 62002/FG2Curtiss R3C-C Seaplane................. £31.95 FA1R Mitsubishi Navy Type 96 Carrier Fighter A5M1 Claude................................ £32.95 FA2R Mitsubishi Navy Type 96 Carrier Fighter A5M2A Claude.............................. £32.95 FINE MOLDS 1/72 scale FMFL3 Messerschmitt Me 410 A1 A-3....... £19.95 FMFL7 Messerschmitt Bf 109 G-4 ........... £19.45 FMFL9 Messerschmitt Me 410 B-1/U-2/R-4. £21.95 FMFL13 Messerschmitt Bf 109G-4/R-6 “Erich Hartman” ............................ £22.45 FMFL14 Messerschmitt Bf 109 G-6 ‘Suomen Ilmavoimien’ ................... £19.45 FMFP18 Mitsubishi A7M2 “Reppu” SAM ...... £18.45 FMFP19 IJA Kawasaki Type3 Ki-61-II Fast Back Fighter.......................................... £19.95 FMFP20 Mitsubishi A7M1 “Reppu” SAM ...... £16.45 FMFP21 IJN Nakajima Type 90 A2N1-2 Carrier Fighter.......................................... £18.45 FMFP22 IJA Kawasaki Ki 100-I “Tony” Bubble Canopy ......................................... £18.45 FMFP24 IJA Kawasaki Type3 Ki-61-1 Otsu Tony Fighter.......................................... £17.95

eduard

IN FOCUS

2015 NATO TIGER MEET

TiGeRS in turkEy

 This year’s host unit, 192 Filo, produced this beautiful scheme on F-16C 92-0014 and it won the Best Tiger Livery award. 192 Filo recently changed its F-16C Block 50 models for CCIP-upgraded Block 40s. With that swap it received two F-16Cs that achieved kills in the recent conflict with Syria: 92-0005 shot down a Mi-17 helicopter on September 16, 2013 and 92-0008 downed a MiG-23 on March 23, 2013. (All Joerg Stange)  The Polish Air Force’s 6Elt became a full member of the NATO Tiger Association in 2011 and has been a regular participant ever since. It’s highly modern Block 52 Vipers look splendid with conformal fuel tanks mounted.  While participation of Tiger Squadrons was comparatively low at this year’s gathering, it was more than compensated for by a pair of shark-mouthed F4E-2020 Phantoms from 111 Filo ‘Panterler’, stationed at Esiksehir AB.

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IN FOCUS

2015 NATO TIGER MEET The pilot of this 6Elt F-16C shows the right tiger spirit. During ‘spotter’ days, the aircrew never fail to entertain the crowd.

Joerg Stange provides a photographic report from this year’s NATO Tiger Meet, at Konya in Turkey

The only rotary wing participants came from 21° Gruppo of the Aeronautica Militare Italiana. This unit won the Silver Tiger Trophy this year, which is awarded annually to the NATO Tiger Squadron that maintains the highest standards of professionalism, and demonstrates through formal and informal competitions, the ‘Spirit of the Tiger’.

Besides the C-model in Tiger colours, 192 Filo also applied another stunning special livery to F-16D 88-0014. Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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IN FOCUS

2015 NATO TIGER MEET Another new low-vis Tiger scheme this year came via 6Elt F-16C, coded 4056.

A rather unusual scheme was produced by Escadre de Chasse 1/7 ‘Provence’ of the Armée de l’Air. This vivid green livery was called ‘Monster Tiger’, and the squadron must be congratulated on its courage for trying something different.

It was great to meet an old friend! As flying Phantoms get rarer and rarer around the globe, the Turhish Air Force is set to keep these highly upgraded strike versions in service for another five years, until they will be replaced by the Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II…at least that’s the plan!

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Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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Fine resin accessories for 1/48 scale model aircraft.

www.royaleresin.net [email protected]

EXCLUSIVE BUILD F4F-4 WILDCAT

Although a very small model, it certainly punched above its weight in detail terms. An initial dry-fit proved just how comprehensive the features were. Note the wing spars, moulded integrally to the firewall part.

Jen Wright is hugely impressed with Airfix’s forthcoming F4F-4 Wildcat, built via a pre-production test-shot ith this release, Airfix continues to replace its back catalogue with newly tooled kits In this case, the 1964 offering of 35 parts has been supplanted by a splendid new kit depicting the Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat. This test-shot came on four runners, with a fifth devoted to transparencies, for a total of 58 parts. First impressions were extremely favourable; this kit seemed to have reached new levels of finesse and detail over even the very latest releases. Panel lines were crisp and finer than seen so far, and many will be pleased to see much smaller sprue gates present throughout.

W Testing for fit problems with the fuselage halves. Thankfully there were none, although the dry-run showed that fitting the undercarriage later would be impossible.

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Options included raised or lowered undercarriage, folded or outstretched wings and open or closed canopy parts. A pair of drop tanks was included, but not mentioned in the pre-production instructions (or used on this build). In the absence of the kit decals markings from Techmod sheet 72-004A were employed.

A busy start While construction almost always begins with the cockpit on aircraft builds, on this occasion it was joined by the entire undercarriage assembly and a firewall. For such a small model, there was much work to get through before the fuselage halves could be joined.

Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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EXCLUSIVE BUILD F4F-4 WILDCAT

KIT COLOUR SCHEMES The two F4F-4 liveries that will be provided in the production release are: • White 2, Capt Marian E Carl, VMF-223, United States Marine Corps, Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, 1942 • 6F9, VF-6, United States Navy, USS Enterprise (CV-6), 1942

Airfix did not forget the engine while it had its detail head on... the moulding here was exquisite, and would benefit hugely from careful painting.

 After painting and a little light weathering, the cockpit parts came to life beautifully. The production kit will include a comprehensive set of decals for the instrument panel and the side consoles.

Test-fitting and dry-building proved essential for the complex undercarriage, with very careful trimming of mould seams being necessary for a snug fit. Usually, it might be considered good form to paint all the parts and then assemble them, but I found it nearly impossible to check the entire assembly without glue, so took the plunge and cemented it all together before painting. The cockpit itself was a breeze in comparison, having relatively few

parts. After consulting references, it seemed the interior could be either standard US Interior Green, or a much darker Bronze Green colour, while the rest of the interior was a pale grey known as ‘Grumman Gray’. In the absence of specific information to the contrary, the Bronze Green option was used for the cockpit, while Light Gull Gray represented Grumman Gray. Tamiya XF-70 IJN Green was used on all the cockpit parts (oh, the ironic

"THIS KIT SEEMED TO HAVE REACHED NEW LEVELS OF FINESSE" Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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EXCLUSIVE BUILD F4F-4 WILDCAT

Alignment of the undercarriage parts was crucial to the proper sit of the model; while not impossible to get it wrong, with proper care it was easy to assemble correctly.  With all that lovely interior detail finally finished, the fuselage halves could be joined. The mating was excellent throughout, with no filler necessary anywhere.

MODEL SPEC

 Careful painting picked out the very fine detail on the engine, while a wash provided depth to the moulded cooling fin detail. Note the hand-painted Pratt & Whitney logo! The inner wings, again with workmanlike and pleasing features. These parts slid onto the integrally moulded stub spars, neatly setting the correct dihedral angle. The triangular-shaped protrusion was placed perfectly for the folded outer wing section to butt against.

indignity!) and then details were picked out in black. Chipping was added here and there with a fine brush and silver paint, with a little pastel dust rubbed into the floor areas to represent dust buildup. A set of seatbelts would be a welcome addition for those that like a little extra detail. In the meantime, the completed undercarriage

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and other internal areas had been painted with Gunze H51 Light Gull Gray. The lower parts of the undercarriage legs were brush-painted in black, and then dry-brushed lightly with gunmetal to highlight the detail. Finally, the chain and wheel features on the firewall were accentuated with metallic grey, leaving everything ready for fuselage assembly.

Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat By:

Airfix

Stock Code: A02070 Scale:

1/72

Price:

£7.99

Available from: www.airfix.com

Cat construction Joining the fuselage halves proved to be a complete nonevent! Cyanoacrylate (CA) was used for speed and a little glue was allowed to seep from the join, which automatically filled any tiny cracks or seams that may have otherwise been present. The only real downside to using CA for major assembly is that speed and precision is required when aligning the parts. In this case, though, sanding the aforementioned seepage left an absolutely perfect join, and the one-piece tailplane was then slotted into place on the fin. Such was the precision of this assembly that glue was almost superfluous. I chose to leave the separate rudder offset slightly to add a little dynamism to the model. Moving to the wings, the Editor had asked for one to be folded and one in flying mode; Airfix provided two sets of wings, which meant compromise or cutting was unnecessary, and one of each type of wing was assembled in short order. The detail on the folded parts was well rendered, but improvement would certainly

Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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EXCLUSIVE BUILD F4F-4 WILDCAT

"THE DETAIL ON THE FOLDED PARTS WAS WELL RENDERED" be possible with the addition of a little wiring. Minimal rectification work was carried out on the wing panels. Sanding of the join seams was followed by using a 0.8mm drill bit to round all the gun apertures. Attaching the wings to the fuselage couldn’t have been easier, either, with the stub spar both providing support and aiding alignment. Certainly, setting the correct dihedral on the stub of the folded wing would have been quite difficult without it. The outer wing section remained separate until final assembly, as it would have provided quite an obstacle to work around. As ever, construction was followed by a careful check of all seams and joins, to ensure all was ready to begin painting, and this being so, the windscreen was fitted.

Feline colours Sitting squarely between building and painting was masking. Despite the small size of this

model, it needed a surprisingly large amount of masking before paint could be added. Much of it was quite complex, and because of this, Blu-Tack was used in most areas. This medium was ideal because it was easy to press and form into the tricky areas, around the undercarriage for example; and remained easy to remove afterward. It really can be regarded up there with cotton buds and cocktail sticks in the list of all-time most useful modelling materials! When happy with the masking, the whole model was painted with Tamiya XF-19 Sky Grey, simply to provide a uniform shade and surface for the colours to come. As the scheme chosen was for a Guadalcanal aircraft, the underside shade was to be Light Gull Gray, for which Gunze H51 was used. Being gloss, it was thinned with the firm’s proprietary Mr. Color lacquer thinner, to expedite the drying time from days to just overnight.

Once dry, subtle light and dark shading was applied to begin the planned weathering patterns, with a light coat of the original colour used to blend the effects. Next was the topside shade of

Blue Gray, note, not Intermediate Blue! The best match for this that I know of is Mr. Color C367 which is available as part of the US Navy colour set from retailers in the UK. Although

A WORD ON WING FOLDS

(USN via NARA)

 To further neaten the joins, Mr. Surfacer was brushed on, and when dry, wiped off with a cotton bud moistened with Mr. Color thinner. The windscreen received the same treatment.

The instantly recognisable Grumman wing fold design, known as the STO-Wing, came about due to an obvious need to save space on carriers. The designers felt that folding the wings in the manner of a bird, so they rested vertically alongside the fuselage, would be the best space-saving method, but making it work proved difficult. In the end Roy Grumman sussed it, apparently with the help of an eraser and paperclips! A point of interest during this build was the attitude of the aileron on folding the wing. Airfix pointed out correctly in the instructions that the ailerons were deflected on folding; but what of the unfolded wing? It turned out that the linkage was, in effect, butt-jointed and parted as the wing was folded. Therefore, the folding of one wing did not affect the aileron position of the other wing. References suggested a plethora of possible colours for the internal areas, from Zinc Chromate Green out of the factory, to any and all top and bottom camouflage colours ...or even just overspray from field repaints.

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EXCLUSIVE BUILD F4F-4 WILDCAT

It was felt that the representations of lightening holes in this outer wing could be improved by deepening them slightly, with appropriately sized drill bits.  After a Tamiya XF-19 Sky Grey undercoat, the undersides were sprayed with Light Gull Gray. White-Tack was then used to mask the demarcation for the upper colour.

 Blu-Tack was used to mask awkward areas, being easy to persuade into any shape and almost infinitely re-usable; useful for masking the wheel wells in particular.

of Johnson’s Klear were applied with a wide flat brush to seal the surface ready for decal application.

Troublesome markings

the demarcation between the two shades was mostly quite soft on the real thing, this being such a small model, it was much easier to use a White-Tack mask. This would provide a ‘soft’

hard edge and avoid much delicate airbrush work. The Blue Gray was sprayed in exactly the same manner as the underside already had been, albeit with much shorter drying times; and after removing the masking between colours, two coats

I always look forward to the point in a project when decals can be applied. It is such a pivotal moment, and one where the model really starts to come to life before our very eyes. Unfortunately, the Techmod sheet used here did a good job of removing most of the joy from this phase of the build. They looked great on the sheet, beautifully printed, in register and exceptionally thin. This engendered confidence that they would conform to detail well and disappear into the finish, as very thin decals usually do. When it came to it, though, the opposite was true, due to them being somewhat ‘crispy’ in nature... and utterly resistant to all the

MATERIALS ROUND-UP Paints • Upper colour – Gunze Mr. Color (lacquer) C367 Blue Gray FS35189 • Lower colour – Gunze Mr. Hobby (aqueous) H51 Light Gull Gray FS36440 • Undercoat – Tamiya XF-19 Sky Grey • Cockpit interior – Tamiya XF-70 IJN Green • Black parts – Tamiya XF-85 Rubber Black • Tyres – AMMO MIG 033 Rubber and Tyres • Propeller tips — Mr. Hobby H329 Yellow FS 13538 • Engine – Alclad Aluminium • Crankcase – Mr. Hobby H68 RLM74 Dunkelgrau • Ignition Wires – Mr. Hobby H72 Dark Earth • Silver – Mr. Metal Color 218 Alminume (sic) • Exhausts – Mr. Metal Color 213 Stainless Steel

Weathering • Tamiya Weathering Master B (Snow, Soot and Rust) • Paynes Grey oil wash • AMMO MIG PLW (Panel Line Wash) 1601 Medium Grey and 1602 Deep Grey • MIG Abteilung Abt 093 Light Earth and Abt 001 Snow White

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EXCLUSIVE BUILD F4F-4 WILDCAT

"THE FOLDED WING WAS MADE EASY BY THE CLEVER ALIGNMENT AIDS"

decal solvents tried. Eventually, a combination of Mr. Sol, fingernails and a scalpel blade brought about an acceptable result, although it was not without a few touch-ups. After all was thoroughly dry, the model was sprayed with Tamiya X-22 Clear to blend in the decals a little, and protect them from any harmful side-effects of the enamel washes to be used.

Kitty christening Poring over the available reference material revealed that there was ample excuse for filth on

these aircraft. Tales of taking off through choking dust clouds left by the preceding aircraft, or being unable to attain flying speed after rain had turned the runway into a quagmire (the latter allied to the extremely basic facilities) meant these were definitely not clean kitties! With this in mind, MIG panel line washes were employed to accent the panel details, and add dirty effects where groundcrew might have spent time clambering about the airframe; after this was done, oil paints were used to add fading effects. This was

 With both camouflage colours on, all masking apart from the windscreen and cockpit was removed, and the whole model received two coats of hand-brushed Johnson’s Klear.

achieved by placing a tiny amount of a light colour onto the area to be affected, then blending it with a soft brush. While it is true that these effects are easy to achieve with an airbrush, using oils allows fading to carry over onto the decals, helping to blend them with the finish even more. Another advantage of oils is that they can be removed very easily with turpentine if the result is not as pleasing as hoped for. When finished and dried, AMMO MIG satin acrylic varnish dulled the finish, with a few areas picked

out in matt for extra variety. As usual, I painted and weathered the small parts as I went along, with the main aim being to obtain a reasonably consistent finish between all.

The cat’s whiskers Final assembly was as troublefree as the rest of the build had been; even adding the folded wing was made easy by the clever alignment aids supplied by Airfix. Old-fashioned tube glue was used for this, as it allowed a few minutes’ ‘wiggle time’, which

 A difficult decaling session was finalised with two further coats of Klear, this time sprayed. Note that the wing folds were painted Interior Green at this point. Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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EXCLUSIVE BUILD F4F-4 WILDCAT

The post-decal Klear coat protected the markings from the enamel wash used to highlight the panel lines, and add very subtle streaking. Oil paints were used sparingly to blend and fade the national markings into the rest of the finish.

 AMMO MIG satin varnish provided a final finish, leaving the model ready for closing assembly. As usual I painted and weathered all the small parts as I went along with the main portion of the build.

 With the lack of a kit decal sheet, one highly noticeable omission would have been the propeller stencils. Rifling through the decal spares produced this tiny sheet by Kora, which was perfect for the job.

RECOMMENDED REFERENCES Monograph No.12 Grumman F4F Wildcat, by Andre R Zbiegniewski and Krzysztof Janowicz, (Kagero), ISBN: 83-89088-53-3 Aircraft of the Aces 3 Wildcat Aces of World War 2, by Barrett Tillman (Osprey), ISBN: 1-85532-486-5 F4F Wildcat in Action, by Don Linn (Squadron/Signal), ISBN: 0-89747-200-4 F4F Walk Around, by Richard Dann (Squadron/Signal), ISBN: 0-89747-347-7 Warpaint Series No.9 Grumman F4F Wildcat Wildcat, by Glen Phillips (Hall Park)

helped with aligning the wing and the jury strut at the same time. Special mention of the wheels must be made at this point, as they possessed beautiful, crisply moulded detail. In a closing touch, all the aerials were added via

Uschi van der Rosten’s standard thickness Lycra thread. I have to say, as good as some new releases from Airfix have been, the Wildcat is better still. It’s clear the firm’s designers

are not content with standing still, but instead are still striving for increasingly better standards. The kit features fabulous sharp detailing, fine attachment gates and complex engineering made wonderfully simple. This delightful

little package will retail at just £7.99; leaving room, both literally and financially, for a whole clowder* of little Grummans on the display shelf. *Collective noun for a group or ❚ cluster of cats!

"THE KIT FEATURES FABULOUS SHARP DETAILING"

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 A Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat from VC-13 catches the arrester wire on the deck of the USS Core, during the Pacific War in 1944. These appropriately feline markings will be available in Airfix's forthcoming Wildcat starter gift set.

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IN FOCUS

GRUMMAN WILDCAT

IRONWORKS FIGHTER Fresh from the factory, a new F4F-4 flies over the Long Island Sound in spring 1942. The effectiveness of the Blue Gray camouflage is ruined by the oversized national insignia, and red and white rudder stripes. (NASM)

Dana Bell outlines the operational career of the Grumman Wildcat, and describes its colours and markings ften cited as an example of America's lack of preparedness at the beginning of World War Two, the Wildcat nonetheless proved to be the only successful US naval fighter for its first year of combat. Armed heavily and of robust construction, the Wildcat scourged Japan’s bombers and torpedo aircraft, only to be outclassed by more nimble Japanese fighters. But new tactics helped to level the

O

playing field and, as newer Corsairs and Hellcats gained command of the skies, the Wildcat continued to serve in secondary combat roles, and remained in production through the Japanese surrender. Formed in December 1929, the Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation produced three successful biplane fighter models for the Navy in six years. A late1935 order to design the XF4F-1 – a more advanced biplane – was

soon cancelled as the US Navy became interested in monoplanes; Grumman’s response was the XF4F-2, ordered in July 1936 and first flown in September 1937. The new monoplane suffered from several aerodynamic problems, but the major issue proved to be the 14-cylinder Pratt & Whitney R-183066 Twin Wasp radial engine. The Twin Wasp was destined to become aviation’s most widely produced piston engine, but the aircraft’s dash-66 installation was a failure that caused the prototype to crash in April 1938. Heavily damaged, the XF4F-2 was returned to Grumman as the Navy placed a production order for the new

An F4F-3 in bright, pre-war colours. In 1936 the Navy arranged for factories to apply all unit markings before delivery, and this aircraft shows the colours of the fourth aircraft of USS Ranger's ‘Red Ripper’ squadron. Note the extra space left in the fuselage codes; VF-4 would soon be re-designated VF-41, and painters were instructed to leave room for the extra digit.

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Brewster F2A (eventually named the Buffalo). Still, the Navy had seen enough merit in the F4F to fund a re-design of the wings and tail and, as the XF4F-3, a new Pratt & Whitney XR-1830-76 Twin Wasp engine with geared, twostage supercharger. Delivered in early 1939, the rebuilt fighter was a marked improvement, and the Navy placed an initial production order for 54 F4F-3s; that number would eventually increase to 285 aircraft, with an additional 95 built as F4F-3As powered by an R-1830-90 and single-stage geared supercharger.

Foreign sales Export versions of the F4F were soon ordered by Greece, France, and the UK; but as German forces eventually occupied the first two countries, all export aircraft were subsequently delivered to Britain, where the aircraft was named the Martlet. The US Navy would assign the nickname Wildcat, but not until October 1941. Britain’s Fleet Air Arm actually took the aircraft into combat almost a year before America entered the war. On Christmas Day 1940, two 804 NAS Martlet Mk.Is based at Hatston, Orkney, intercepted and destroyed an unescorted Ju 88 that was attempting to bomb the Home Fleet at Scapa Flow. America’s initial combat experiences with the F4F were not

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IN FOCUS

GRUMMAN WILDCAT as successful. When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, nine Marine F4F3s were destroyed on the ground. That evening, six Navy Wildcats from the USS Enterprise were shot down by ‘friendly’ fire as they attempted to land at Ford Island in Pearl Harbor. Further west, nine Marine Wildcats had recently been added to the defences of Wake Island. Seven of these fighters were destroyed on the ground, but the remaining pair fought valiantly for 13 days before being downed by A6M2 Zeros. Contemporary records suggest the Marine Wildcats accounted for eight Japanese aircraft and contributed to the destruction of at least one Japanese destroyer. The Navy would claim its first victory on February 1, 1942 when a Yorktown F4F-3 brought down a four-engined Mavis flying boat during operations over the Gilbert Islands. Two more Mavis patrol aircraft were destroyed on February 20 by Lexington pilots as Task Force 11 approached Rabaul. The Japanese then vectored nine G4M1 Betty bombers toward the American ships; six Wildcats each destroyed one Betty, while the ships’ gunners brought down the remainder. Thirty minutes later, as eight more Bettys approached, just two Wildcats were close enough to intercept – and only one of those aircraft had working machine guns. Despite the odds, Lt Edward H ‘Butch’ O’Hare dived to attack, and destroyed at least three bombers and damaged several

VF-3 aces Jimmy Thach (in F-1) and Butch O’Hare (in F-13) fly their F4F-3s for an April 1942 publicity shot. Note that both aircraft have the new rudder stripes, but have not yet received national insignia above their right wings. A small VF-3 Felix the Cat insignia is visible beside each aircraft’s windscreen. (All NARA unless stated)

An FM-1, brought to NAS Anacostia, DC, for June 1943 flight tests. The national insignia on the fuselage is oval, though the curvature of the fuselage makes it appear almost round. Decal manufacturers take note!

Simple, six-position national insignia date this F4F-3 photo as post-May 1942, months after the last F4F-3 had been delivered. The lack of weathering suggests a recent repaint, and while colour film variations may have intensified the blue camouflage, this may be a rare image of the Navy's Dark Blue paint, trialled occasionally during the second half of 1942. (Key Collection)

others before help arrived. While these early victories seemed to justify the Navy's faith in the Wildcat, the Battle of the Coral Sea in April 1942 gave new perspective. Wildcats defending the US fleet met Japanese bombers escorted by agile A6M Zero fighters, while other Wildcats escorting American bombers met more Zeros defending the Japanese fleet. In both cases, the Wildcat came out in second place. The solution to fighting the Zero had actually been developed before the war by Commander John S Thach, who was O’Hare’s commanding officer in VF-3. Thach had become aware of intelligence reports on Japanese fighter performance and, by working with matchsticks, he played through mock combats to searching for the formation that would best allow not just survival, but victory. At the time, the standard fighter section comprised a leader and two wingmen, in close formation. Thach found that a leader with one wingman, or two leaders each with a wingman worked best, especially if separated past the Wildcat’s turning radius. As a Zero latched onto one aircraft, the leader and wingman would turn towards each other to make a head-on pass at the pursuer. The first opportunity to test the formation against the Japanese came at the Battle of Midway in early June 1942. Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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IN FOCUS

GRUMMAN WILDCAT though it apparently never was. The lightweight FM-2 would be the first Wildcat capable of dogfighting Japanese fighters, though most of its missions would be designed around surface attack. Of the 7,825 Wildcats produced to August 1945, 5,837 (approximately 75%) would be Eastern FM-1s or FM-2s.

Colours and markings

USS Enterprise flight deck crew prepare an F4F-3 for an early 1942 mission. The oversized national insignia were added to improve identification and avoid friendly fire incidents.

Thach and a wingman accounted for four Zeros by scissoring back and forth to protect each other; the practice became known as the ‘Thach weave’.

Safety in numbers Another lesson from the Battle of the Coral Sea was that both navies underestimated the number of fighters required. American carriers were loaded with one squadron each of dive-bombers, scout-bombers, and torpedo aircraft, and one squadron of 18 fighters (Japanese carriers shipped a similar number of fighters). A portion of the fighters were expected to protect the strike force, others to protect the fleet, and yet more to stand in reserve. Early in the war, any increase in carrier fighters would have cut unacceptably into the space needed for offensive aircraft. But shortly before the Battle of Midway, Navy fighter squadrons began to receive new F4F-4s – the first production folding-wing Wildcats. As they needed less storage space, the F4F-4 allowed each of the three US carriers in that battle to ship 27 fighters – 50 per cent more – for a total of 81 Wildcats, near parity with the 90 Zeros of the five fighter squadrons on Japan’s five carriers. Design requirements of the F4F-4 had been coordinated by the US Navy and British Purchasing Commission in an effort to standardise production features.

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The US had wanted the wings to fold hydraulically, but yielded to the British preference for a weightsaving, manual folding system. British top brass also preferred to add an additional .50 cal gun to each wing (for a total of six), which increased the total weight and reduced the ammunition per gun, but also heightened the destructive power of a single burst. Grumman produced 1,168 F4F-4s, including 220 Lend-Lease aircraft for Britain. Grumman soon began production of the superior F6F Hellcat, and

Vought the F4U Corsair, but the Navy still needed Wildcats. To free Grumman’s production lines, General Motors opened a new facility at the Eastern Aircraft Division in Linden, New Jersey. There, the Wildcat continued production as the FM-1, which was based on the F4F-4, but with a return to four wing guns, and a switch to the Wright R-1820-56 engine resulted in the FM-2. The latter also featured an enlarged vertical tail for added stability; this feature was also to have been retrofitted to earlier Wildcats,

The earliest operational F4Fs were delivered in the Navy's attractive peacetime colours of overall aluminium (not Aircraft Gray) with Orange Yellow (often erroneously called Chrome Yellow) upper wing surfaces. Each aircraft carrier was assigned an identifying colour, which was painted on the tails of its aircraft, and combinations of coloured stripes distinguished sections, section leaders, and individuals. Fuselage codes identified the squadron by number, followed by an ‘F’ for fighter squadron, and then followed by a number designating the individual aircraft. The fifth aircraft of Fighting Squadron Three, for example, would have been coded 3-F-5. National insignia were applied above and below each wing only.

Grey progression Pre-war experiments had convinced the fleet that the best aerial camouflage was overall dull aluminium without yellow wings or bright unit markings, and in 1940 the Navy ordered new Wildcats delivered in this

An F4F-4 of Composite Squadron Thirteen (VC-13) on the USS Core's flight deck in September 1943. Assigned to anti-submarine duties, the aircraft wears the Navy’s then new graded scheme of Dark Gull Gray, Light Gull Gray, and White.

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IN FOCUS

GRUMMAN WILDCAT

A Glossy Sea Blue FM-2 of Composite Squadron Seventy-Seven (VC-77) flying from the USS Rudyerd Bay in support of landings in the Philippines, in October 1944.

scheme. Grumman, however, had already painted tail sub-assemblies in planned carrier hues, so the Navy accepted a handful of aircraft with bright tails, which compromised the camouflage. The Wildcat was one of just a handful of aircraft painted in the matt aluminium camouflage before the Bureau of Aeronautics (BuAer) objected. Noting that no amount of flattening could eliminate the sun’s glint on the new paint, BuAer proposed to substitute an overall light grey. Additionally, all unit markings would be reduced in size or eliminated, and the national insignia would be revised to follow the US Army’s new practice, with a small star insignia added to either side of the aft fuselage and the markings deleted from above the right wing and below the left. Despite the initial acceptance of the Light Gray scheme for aerial combat, the Pacific Fleet felt the new scheme increased the visibility of its aircraft carriers, and in summer 1941 began to apply Blue Gray camouflage to the upper surfaces and sides of all shipboard aircraft. Most operational Wildcats would be re-camouflaged by the time the US entered the war. In late December 1941, the Pacific Fleet revised its national markings to reduce the number of friendly fire incidents: national insignia were to be maximised on wings and fuselages, with insignia to be returned to upper right and lower left wings. Additionally, rudders were to be painted in 13 alternating red and white stripes, similar to the Army’s pre-war markings. When, in February 1942, the revised markings were ordered to be applied to all camouflaged Navy aircraft, Grumman factory

Deck crews clear a Glossy Sea Blue FM-2 on board the USS Kadashan Bay during recovery operations in September 1944. The ship and aircraft were supporting the hard-fought invasion of Peleliu.

drawings showed just 11 stripes; though most Wildcats would carry 13, photos show a number of aircraft with just eleven. Eventually, the tail stripes were ordered to be removed, along with the red centre to the star insignia, in May 1942. One other marking anomaly could be found on early FM-1 fuselage insignia...they were oval! Designed to appear circular when viewed from the side, the insignia was 50in (127cm) high, but just 46in (116.8cm) wide. Otherwise, the Wildcat followed most Navy camouflage and markings directives: the four-tone graded camouflage was introduced in early 1943, the red-bordered, white-barred insignia came in the summer of 1943, replaced by the blue-bordered version that September, and the overall Glossy Sea Blue scheme was standardised in early 1944 (Wildcats did not feature the simplified insignia of white star and bars applied directly to a blue camouflage background. As an effective submarine hunter, the Wildcat also carried two antisubmarine warfare schemes from mid-1943: a graded camouflage of Dark Gull Gray, Light Gull Gray and White, or a simplified variation of ❚ just Dark Gull Gray and white.

This fine study shows an F4F-4 of VGF-29 (Escort Fighter Squadron Twenty-nine) aboard the USS Santee from September 1942 to January 1944. Note the patchy surface finish; armourers would remove the upper wing gun panels during rearming, and avoided walking on them when fitted at all costs. Another factor is that the pigmented dopes and lacquers used by the US differed greatly in tone depending on the batch. (Key Collection)

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YOUR AIRFIX

JAGUAR GR.1

A fast-jet flight while in the RAF inspired Andy White to dress Airfix’s Jaguar in special markings

Jaguar GR.1

I

served on 41(F) Squadron from 1991-93 as the Intelligence Officer, and during that time, one of our Jaguars received a special scheme to mark the unit’s 75th anniversary. It so happened that my first fast-jet back seat ride (in a Jaguar T.2) was in formation with that aircraft, and I’ve always wanted to model it. And now it’s finally happened! The kit is Airfix’s 1/48 Jaguar GR.1A, but with as much aftermarket resin, photo-etched metal, white metal and brass as

I could wrangle. The cockpit and seat were replaced with Pavla’s resin set, which was a great improvement. Next was to ‘close’ the auxiliary intake doors on the sides of the air intakes, as these were always in that position on the ground; this was done with thin plastic card cut to fit. The flaps and leading edge slats were almost always in the ‘down’ position on the ground, too, and so Paragon Designs’ resin flaps and slats were employed. These had been out of production for years, but eventually I found them

on eBay, along with Paragon’s resin afterburner/exhaust set. Also added were ALE-40 chaff/ flare dispensers and cannon bulges from the same package. The pitot was replaced with a brass item by Master, and I also fitted that firm’s brass angle-ofattack sensor. The undercarriage was substituted for Scale Aircraft Conversion’s white metal versions, and new resin wheels came from Paragon. As for the stores, I wanted it to look how I’d flown with it – underwing fuel tanks on the inboard pylons, and

a centreline recce pod. Tamiya acrylics were used, with just slight weathering and post-shading... but not too much as this was a ‘celebration’ jet and as such was kept fairly clean. The markings were from Xtradecal, and went down beautifully. I’m pleased with the result, and especially glad that after promising myself for all these years that I’d portray this smart aircraft in model form, it’s actually come to fruition. Andy White, Norfolk

Are you proud of a particular Airfix build? Then let AMW know by providing us with 200-250 words on the project and what was involved, along with 6-8 good quality photos against a clean white background. Photo file sizes should be 1Mb or larger. Please e-mail your submissions to the editor: [email protected]

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OUT AND ABOUT

IPMS USA 2015 CONVENTION

Buckeye Bonanza This beautiful P-47D Bubbletop secured the Best in Show and Best Aircraft awards for Seattle’s Marc Schachter. He turned the project into a scratch-building extravaganza, with heaps of extra detail on the engine, in the gun bays and on the undercarriage.

 Toronto's Harvey Low used a Criel Models conversion on his superb 1/35 Italeri Sahariana. Extra scratch-building and convincing weathering were key elements that made it a standout entry. (All Chris Clifford)

C

olumbus in Ohio already had good form in convention terms, as it previously hosted the event in 2009 and 1997. The city is the capital of ‘The Buckeye State’ (Buckeye being a

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type of chestnut), and has long been entwined with aviation, mostly due to Naval Air Station Columbus...now Port Columbus Airport; the site was home to various US Navy aircraft and the Curtiss-Wright Corporation. One

 Tim Nelson of Kirkland, Washington, went all-out on his 1931 Boeing Model 215/YB-9 bomber prototype. The vac-form kit was by Formaplane, and Tim scratch-built the interior, canopies and landing gear, used Monogram F4B engines and custom-made the decals.

of the world’s most famous aces, Eddie Rickenbacker, also came from Columbus and it’s this flyer’s name that is used by the local IPMS organising chapter. Unsurprisingly, the convention’s special decal release (designed by

TwoBobs), offered 1/48 schemes for a Columbus-based Vought Corsair and TV-1 Shooting Star, as well as 1/48 and 1/35 British Vehicle D-Day markings. Unlike the UK Nationals, US conventions are almost exclusively

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OUT AND ABOUT

IPMS USA 2015 CONVENTION

 Armour was well represented in Ohio, and an impressive example was this superb 1/35 Dragon Grille Ausf.H with Griffon Models PE details.

VIEW MORE ONLINE airfixmodelworld.com  The distance travelled by some competition entrants was amazing. Alexandre Bigey flew all the way from French Polynesia to enter his splendid Beneš-Mráz Be50 Beta-Minor, built from the 1/72 Legato kit.  Local modeller Ron Bell performed an impressive amount of scratchbuilding on this 1/72 Airframes vac-form Blackburn Airedale. This was an early and crude vac-form of just eight parts, but Ron excelled himself with the extra detail and flawless finish.

The Phantom is an ever-enduring subject, and Olive Branch, Mississippi modeller Richard T van Zandt II made an eye-catching job of his Hasegawa 1/48 F-4D. It wears the scheme of ‘The Saint’...a well-known aircraft from the 366th TFW in Vietnam.

competition-based affairs as opposed to offering many club displays. It matters not though, because with around 2,700 models in the competition this July, there was a veritable feast of topquality modelling to enjoy – and

the standard was exceptional. Pleasingly, 1/72 scale was well represented but as one might expect, the larger scales did provide very impressive exhibits across the aircraft genre, and it fell to the 1/48 sector to provide

the best-in-show winner. This was a magnificent Tamiya P-47D bubbletop with a flawless baremetal finish, and a jaw-dropping amount of scratch-building on the engine, gun bays and canopy. Entitled ‘Defenders of Bastogne’,

the model depicted a 406th FG aircraft in December 1944, and its builder, Marc Schachter of Seattle, Washington, arguably deserved the accolade despite uncharitable postshow sniping on Internet forums, with regard to accuracy. Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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OUT AND ABOUT

IPMS USA 2015 CONVENTION

Eric’s haul The RF-101B is a real rarity on show tables, and so this gorgeous example built by Ohio’s Mike Meredith was a real treat. Mike added a Black Box cockpit and his own rivet detail and re-scribing to the ageing Monogram base kit.

AMW contributor Eric Larson entered seven models into the competition and all managed to place in their categories: Wingnut Wings 1/32 LVG C.VI 1st place, Aircraft 1/32 Biplanes Tamiya 1/48 F-16C Arctic Bandit 1st place, Aircraft 1/48 Small Jet US Manufactured Academy 1/48 F-4B Phantom II 1st place, Aircraft 1/48 Large Jet US Marked Convention Special Interest Award – Best Marine Attack Aircraft A-4 Skyhawk Association 'Whizzer' White Memorial Award for Best Navy/Marine Attack Aircraft

The battered and worn finish on Ontario modeller Bob Burgar’s 1/48 Hobby Boss F4F-3, built as a British Martlet, was a masterclass in weathering. Kinetic 1/48 Fouga Magister 2nd place, Aircraft 1/48 Small Jet Non-US Manufactured Revell of Germany 1/72 Fw 200C4 Condor 2nd place, Aircraft 1/72 Large Prop Multi-Engine Hasegawa 1/48 Fw 190A-8 w/Bv 246 Hagelkorn 3rd place; Aircraft 1/48 Small Prop, Single Engine, German and Italian Marked  There’s nothing quite like an old-school motorcycle to bombard the modelling senses! Here, Minnesota’s Scott Harviuex created a lustrous finish on his 1/12 Gunze High Tech 1941 Indian Sport Scout.

Shopping opportunities There was also much to explore among the traders; these were split into various rooms throughout the Columbus Hyatt Regency Convention Center, and this ensured plenty of space to manoeuvre while shopping. Old

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hands such as Squadron and Sprue Brothers offered much to see, but even more interesting were after-market producers such as relative newcomer GT Resin Products, which focuses heavily on the mighty F-4 Phantom with its conversions

 Car builds don’t come much prettier than Robert Maderich’s 1950 Oldsmobile. The 1/24 Revell kit, it depicts the winner of the inaugural Pan-Americana Road Race from that same year. Testors paints and Bare-Metal Foil ensured a great finish for the Minneapolis modeller.

and details. A real gem of a discovery was Thachweave Products, which has a splendid and innovative range of items such as woven boat bumpers (its Landwasserschlepper hullsurround bumper is stunning) and real material sandbags

with drawstrings. Car modellers certainly welcomed the presence of recently formed American Racing Miniatures, which produces simply lovely mixed-media racers from the 1930s to modern NASCAR examples. And it was

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OUT AND ABOUT

IPMS USA 2015 CONVENTION

Hind Down! Incredible groundwork, and the clever way the subject was incorporated into its background, drew much praise for Illinois modeller Greg Cihlur. He employed Trumpeter’s 1/35 MI-24 kit, and did well with the crash damage and figure poses.

 One could be forgiven for thinking that this wonderful little 1/350 USS Taurus hydrofoil, by Montana’s Richard Sliwka, was in a bigger scale. The 1980s craft was built from Orange Hobbies kit, and it displayed enviable detail.

 TwoBobs designed the limited edition 2015 Convention decal package, which provided 1/48 schemes for a Corsair and Sea Star based at nearby NAS Columbus, along with British D-Day vehicle markings.

 An excited crowd gathered around Zoukei-Mura’s stand, where it announced an all-new 1/48 F-4J Phantom kit...a real departure from the firm’s usual World War Two subjects. If successful, Zoukei will produce other F-4 sub-types. Hoorah!

Subtle weathering defined the term ‘less is more’ for Georgia modeller Tom Gaston, whose 1/48 Revell Ventura Mk.II was stunning.

great to see Central and Eastern European firms such as Eduard, Special Hobby and SBS Model in the mix, too. Perhaps the most exciting occurrence at the convention was Zoukei-Mura’s announcement regarding its forthcoming 1/48

F-4J Phantom! A pre-production model was on display and, while this was much more basic than the end product will be, admirable detail was still evident, especially in the cockpit and on/in the exhausts. If this kit finds success, Zoukei may give us further sub-

types of old ‘Double-Ugly’. With talks by historians such as the revered Dana Bell, and various modelling seminars, there really was something for everyone. Columbus is a friendly city and, all in all, the show itself was hugely enjoyable and offered

bags of old-fashioned American hospitality. Next year’s national convention is in Columbia, South Carolina, with the host chapter being Mid-Carolina Swamp Fox Modelers. Visit: www.ipmsmidcarolina.com. ❚ Chris Clifford Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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BASIC BUILD SOMUA S35

GALLIC HORSEPOWER Garry Tobiss resists scratchbuilt enhancements and after-market supplies to build Tamiya’s Somua S35 straight from the box

 Almost all of the running gear detail was hidden behind the large plates of armour that protected the suspension.  The hull was supplied as two large upper and lower pieces. Cast armour was advanced for the time, but it was expensive and French industry had limited capacity to meet demand.

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concealed largely by segments of armour. Although S35s were arguably superior in many ways to contemporary German designs, French armoured units were overwhelmed quickly in 1940...but a testament to the relatively sound design of the S35 was that more than 200 captured examples were pressed into German service.

A quality package Opening the box revealed an upper and lower hull, plus four runners in Tamiya’s familiar sandcoloured styrene, together with

MODEL SPEC

D

esigned and first built in 1936 by the Société d’Outillage Méchanique et d’Usinage d’Artillerie (Somua), the Char 1935-S (S35) equipped the French ‘Division Légère Mechanique’ (Light Mechanised Division) during the Battle of France in 1940. It was intended to fulfil the role of a cavalry tank, by using speed and independent operation to cause havoc behind enemy lines... which could then be exploited by the slower-moving infantry and their support tanks. Weighing 19.5 tonnes, and with a relatively nimble top speed of 25mph (40km/h), and a range of 160 miles (256km) the S35 incorporated many advanced design features. The armour was cast and thick for the time, armament was a powerful 47mm L/34 gun plus a coaxial 7.7mm Reibel machine gun. A three-man crew operated the tank; commander, driver and radio operator. The commander was expected to manage the tank as well as man the gun. During operations, though, it was found that the S35 had poor reliability and its complex suspension made it difficult to maintain—especially since the problem areas were

SOMUA S35 By:

Tamiya

Stock Code: 35344 Scale:

1/35

Price:

£34.99

Available from: The Hobby Company, www.hobbyco.net

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BASIC BUILD SOMUA S35

 A view of the underside of the hull after completing the suspension; Tamiya moulded the surface detail, even though it would remain largely invisible on the finished model.  Various hatches could be posed open or closed, and the large air intakes are also shown.  Segments of assembled track (upper and lower views) plus a selection of the track links. Note the lack of guide horns on the tracks – as a result, parts of the suspension had to incorporate channels to prevent the tracks falling off.

COOL CAMOUFLAGE All three options used a red brown, olive green and sky scheme, generally painted in a longitudinal pattern. Colour boundaries on the turrets were emphasised with a thin black line. No dates were mentioned in the instructions, though. The options were: • 56, 18th Dragoon Regiment. • 42, 13th Dragoon Regiment. This example had a complex camouflage pattern painted on the turret • 20, 4th Cuirassier Regiment. This tank had an additional blue colour in the scheme, used just on the turret

a small runner of clear parts, poly caps, metal chain and a bag of track links. A set of very clear instructions, a full-colour fold-out sheet to guide painting and markings, and a small decal sheet were also supplied. Tamiya is renowned for producing quality

products and the S35 was no exception; subtle cast texture and highly detailed surface features were evident on all parts. Photos of the actual vehicle showed that the only major detail missing was the casting numbers. It seems that we are all becoming used to

seeing models super-detailed, but the intention with this build was to construct the kit straight out of the box without resorting to any scratch-built upgrades or after-market products, just to see what was possible. With this in mind, the process started with the

suspension (see panel). All parts were separated with a small razor saw to avoid any damage, and each was then neatened with a sharp scalpel and a sanding stick. Assembly was quick and easy and the lower hull was soon upright and ready

“SUBTLE CAST TEXTURE AND HIGHLY DETAILED SURFACE FEATURES WERE EVIDENT ON ALL PARTS”

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RUNNING GEAR

Most of the complex arrangement that made up the running gear on the real Somua was hidden behind other pieces of the superstructure. Tamiya could have opted for the easy way out and simply offered small posts to attach each of the wheels, but luckily the firm decided to provide full detail so the intricacies of the engineering could be appreciated properly.

 A high number of the parts supplied were used to build the suspension. This photo shows the main components for just one side.

 Tamiya did not skimp on the detail. Each sub-assembly came together very quickly so the lower hull soon rested on its wheels.

Here are the lower hull sides and the plates used to finish the suspension. The cast armour for the front of the tank is shown at top right.

 The main parts for the cramped one-man turret; the black poly cap allowed the gun to move vertically.  A series of storage bins and a rolled tarpaulin were provided. The assembled and beautifully detailed exhaust pipes are also shown.

to accept the upper hull. Various holes needed to be opened in the lower and upper hull, and these were marked out clearly on the instructions. Luckily, gone are the days when Tamiya supplied individual track links on runners that had to be separated and cleaned-up individually. The tracks for the S35 came as separate pieces that were simply snapped together, leaving just a small mould point in the centre of each link to eradicate.

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Moving upwards Numerous hatches on the main hull could have been posed open if desired. There was nothing to see inside the model, and so the kit does provide options for aftermarket suppliers to create an interior...or for scratch-builders to fill the void in this way. All hatches were fixed in the closed position and the rails, storage bins, lights and lifting hooks added. On the real vehicle, each bin was secured with what appeared to be two

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BASIC BUILD SOMUA S35

In what seemed like no time at all, the model was built and ready for painting.

 An accurately uniformed figure was provided but not used on this build. It was designed to perch in what must have been a very uncomfortable and exposed position at the rear of the turret.

 A different style of towing hook was all that differentiated the three markings options, and both are shown here. Real metal chain was also provided and duly attached to the styrene parts.

 Sand yellow applied and White-Tack masks in place. Another advantage of using the latter was that pieces of paper could be stuck to it to help mask larger areas.

 The basic camouflage completed, but the sand yellow was a little bright. Here, the latter has been muted with a dark filter and then the decals were applied.

leather straps; those who desire better detail could achieve this by replacing the integrally moulded straps with lead foil replacements or after-market items. Two of the three vehicles portrayed by Tamiya’s instructions used one type of towing hook and the third

turned to the turret and once again, everything came together very well. The cupola was supplied as two parts, which meant that a slight seam had to be dealt with, and there were also small gaps where the turret top joined the bottom plate, but all were treated

scheme (4th Cuirassier Regiment, chosen for this build) employed a modified version, and this was the only difference in the assembly process. The visible parts of the rear lights were painted in their final colour and then masked with Copydex, before attention then

with a tiny amount of filler. This completed the build and it was time to start the paintwork. First to be applied was a coat of Gunze Mr. Surfacer 1500 ‘Gray’ primer straight from a spray can, and this provided a hard and very smooth surface for the forthcoming

“ASSEMBLY WAS QUICK AND EASY”

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BASIC BUILD SOMUA S35

“FRENCH TANKS OF THE PERIOD SPORTED UNUSUAL SCHEMES”

WANT MORE DETAIL? While not used on this build, Eduard offers a new photo-etched metal detail set for Tamiya’s Somua. With the product code 36322, this comprehensive package provides many items such as replacement mudguards, grab handles, hatch locking levers, and tool clamps and straps. For further details, visit www.eduard.com

 The tracks were base-coated with silver, then flattened and painted with Lifecolor UA 413 Extra Dark Brown.  Rust and dust pigments were the applied to the tracks to provide texture and tonal variation; light silver dry-brushing finished the job. The tow chain is also shown.

acrylic apaints. The instructions specified Tamiya paint colours, but it was decided to trust the research of others with the acquisition of a ‘French Tank Colours’ paint set from the Mig Jimenez AMMO range. All colours were applied undiluted via airbrush: A MIG 061 Warm Sand Yellow was added first. French camouflage for the period was hard-edged, and so the boundaries of the sand yellow were then masked with thin, flat pieces of White-Tack. This was preferable to masking tape because the adhesion over an uneven surface was better, and it was also easy

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BASIC BUILD SOMUA S35

to create the pattern rather than cutting it out from the tape. A MIG 063 Pale Grey came next but only on the cupola. The camouflage then progressed with the addition of MIG 064 Earth Brown, further masking with White-Tack to protect the brown and finally A MIG 065 Forest Green. Each colour boundary on the turret apart from the grey was then given a thin black line as per the instructions. The yellow did seem very bright, though, and so a dark filter was applied to the whole model to mute the yellow and integrate the other colours. The decals came next; these were superb and arguably did not need the decal softening and setting solutions that were used. Once complete it was time for the weathering, which was achieved with a combination of sponge-applied acrylics, oils and plenty of pigments.

C’était bien? This was a great little build. The precise fit in all areas, logical construction sequence and relatively low number of parts meant the tank came together quickly and without issue. French tanks of the period sported unusual schemes, and so it was also entertaining to work with more unusual colours. As with almost any kit, there are certain areas that could be improved, but there is no doubt that a fine representation of a Somua S35 can be achieved without resorting to scratch-building or any aftermarket extras...making it an ideal ❚ subject for a beginner.

 The exhaust was painted separately and then finished with various shades of rust-coloured pigments.

 A set of pioneer tools was attached, but more experienced modellers might think scratch-built or after-market attachment clips would be better.

 The first weathering stage was to use a tiny sponge to dab on dark brown, followed by black. A dark wash was then used to highlight the detail. Stage two was to apply dabs of oil paint, which were then drawn down to simulate rust spots and staining. Everything was then blended with copious amounts of earth and rust-coloured pigments.

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{67} 14/08/2015 10:40

OUT AND ABOUT

YEOVILTON 2015 AIRSHOW

The mighty Sea Vixen FAW.2, flown by former Falklands War Sea Harrier pilot Simon Hargreaves, gave an awe-inspiring display and made one wonder how aircrews managed to land this huge fighter on a ship.

Ciao Commando! T he 100th Anniversary of Westland meant this year’s Fleet Air Arm (FAA) airshow would be something special...and for helicopter fans it certainly was. Yeovilton’s tarmac made the ideal setting for an exhibit of Westland’s finest; the past, present and future of helicopter operations was represented in a brilliant display organised by AgustaWestland (the two companies were merged some

A neat four-ship from the French Aéronavale showed the past and present of frontline fast jet fighters. In a couple of years the SuEs will be gone, and the Rafale Ms will be this air arm’s only ship-based single-seat fighter.

 Airfix’s 1/72 Commando HC.4 will include this 848 NAS scheme...can’t wait! This particular airframe has been allocated to the FAA Museum and will be stored at the site’s Cobham Hall. (All Key – Glenn Sands)

 The AgustaWestland AW609 TiltRotor was brought over to the UK especially for the Westland Centenary, and made its debut at Yeovilton before displaying at AW’s Yeovil production facility the following day.

{68}

Gazelles of the private display team, which are painted in their former RAF or Army Air Corps schemes respectively; time to dig out your old Airfix kits perhaps? But this year’s show also featured the last appearances of the mighty Avro Vulcan and the ‘Junglies’ of the Royal Marines Commando Helicopter Force, the latter of which made its presence known in the static display and helicopter assault finale. When it visits a show, the French Aéronavale certainly puts on a display, with a set-piece airfield attack involving two Rafales from 12 Flottille and two Super Etendards (SuE) from 17 Flottille, making mock low-level attacks on Yeovilton’s main runway with tight turns that left a stream of vortices coming off their wingtips. Fast jet fans also enjoyed the Norwegian Air Force F-16 pair, one of which

years ago to form one of Europe’s leading defence helicopter providers). Private helicopters were also slotted into the static park and it was good to see ex-FAA Wasp XT787/G-KATX up close – complete in Falklands War era camouflage, (hurry up Freightdog, I’m inspired to get cracking on your forthcoming release!). Parked alongside were Westland

was still in its Tiger Meet scheme, and as always with Norway’s Fighting Falcons, they were spotless...even the undercarriage bays were still free from oil and hydraulic stains! This was an impressive show that reflected Westland’s heritage perfectly, and demonstrated to the public just how vital the Royal Navy’s helicopter fleet is to the defence of British interests. ❚ Glenn Sands

 Kennet Aviation brought along its Westland Wasp HAS.1 for the celebrations at Yeovilton. The Wasp XT787 (G-KAXT) is painted in an authentic Falklands War scheme; Now come-on Freightdog, let's have that 1/72 kit out for Telford later this year!

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12/08/2015 11:52

F-104 STARFIGHTER

ILLUSTRATED

FSTAR1FIG0HT4ER

OUT NOW

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ILLUSTRATED

ISSUE 20

SABRE SUCCESSOR

The USAF enters the jet age and Lockheed embarks on a secret plan to build a new fighter.

Lockheed’s manned missile

INTO SERVICE

The F-104A is introduced into USAF service and Lockheed’s first export customers receive the Starfighter.

HIGHER AND FURTHER

Tactical Air Command takes the Starfighter to Vietnam and Lockheed secures the European Sale of the Century.

STARFIGHTERS WORLDWIDE

Icons No 20

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BASIC BUILD

THE COSMOSTRATOR

Ian Grainger makes short work of a simple yet fascinating sci-fi build

 After the body halves were joined, smoothing with various grades of Squadron sanding sticks revealed minor cracks that needed attention.

{72}

“A

striking rocket ship design, the ‘future’ envisaged Cosmostrator 1 features three wing/rocket pods fanning off of its spire-like central fuselage. Excellent all around view is granted by its 360-degree upper viewport. Boy is this a sharp design!” This was the exuberant statement on the packaging of Pegasus Hobbies' recent sci-fi offering. When asked to tackle this esoteric subject for a quick build by the Editor, this was about all the information received, other than to “make it shiny!”. A little Internet research, however, revealed highly interesting information concerning this release from the US kit manufacturer. The Soviet spaceship Cosmostrator 1 (originally envisaged as Kosmokrator) featured in the 1960 East German-Polish film First Spaceship on Venus, based on Stanislaw Lem’s novel The Astronauts. The original German title of the film was Der Schweigende Stern (Silent Star), which was also known as Planet of the Dead and Spaceship Venus Does Not Reply; dependent upon where the film was shown. The first US release was dubbed in English by Crown International Pictures in 1962, with a 79-minute running time, reduced from the original 93 minutes. The plot involved the Cosmostrator and its crew being redirected from a

 The rocket pod nacelles would also benefit from sanding of the joins to deal with minor imperfections.

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BASIC BUILD

THE COSMOSTRATOR The body required filler on the bottom sections where gaps were prominent.

mission to Mars to land on Venus, where all contact is lost and they discover a Venusian scheme to irradiate the Earth, killing all of humanity prior to invasion. The plan is foiled, at great cost to the expedition; however, the survivors escape back to Earth in the Cosmostrator with a message about the dangers of atomic weapons. A cold war history lesson disguised as science fiction!

‘Points’ of note

MODEL SPEC

When the kit arrived, none of the above information was known and inspection of the parts, within the lid-style box was, to be honest, uninspiring. This builder’s attitude soon changed, however, following the above research and closer inspection of the parts. This kit was a simplistic offering, with 22 crisply moulded grey styrene parts and a clear ‘cockpit’. The instructions and box stated 23 components, but the main body comprised two parts, rather than the three shown on the instructions. Additional to the main body/fuselage, three identical runners were included, one for the features of each rocket pod ‘nacelle’. Unfortunately, a minor ‘internal’ engine part for one of these was missing, but would prove hidden anyway once built and displayed. The instructions The Cosmostrator By:

Pegasus Hobbies

Stock Code: 9114 Scale:

1/350

Price:

£34.99

were a simple, clear affair with just three stages shown, and no numbering of parts required. A basic painting guide, and suggestions for adhesives, were provided on the back page of the supplied leaflet. From the outset, this builder knew that the model would be completed in a high-shine finish, so preparation of the parts and careful handling during construction would be crucial to the overall result. The halves of the body and each of the three rocket pods were glued together, and then sanded smooth to remove join lines. Closer inspection revealed that the use of filler would be required in some areas. Deluxe Materials’ putty was employed in these problematic regions, as it sanded to a very fine and smooth appearance; an added bonus being that water could be used to clean up. With the main assemblies together, the additional fins and nose cones

 Deluxe Materials putty hid blemishes in the rocket pod joins easily; wet sanding of the problem areas ensured a smooth finish.  Gunze Mr. Surfacer 1000 filled the joins between the fins and the main nacelle pods for the rockets.

were affixed to each pod, and then sanded gently at the joins with folded Wet and Dry abrasive paper. Gunze Mr. Surfacer 1000 (liquid filler in suspension) was flowed into any remaining minor gaps, and the excess removed with the same manufacturer’s paint thinner. The tip of the main body was used to sandwich the clear

part for the 360-degree upper viewport. All four of the tips were sharp points and required careful handling, so as not to stab oneself; probably a reason for the 14-plus age suggestion on the box! Once satisfied with each sub-assembly, all four were brought together as in Stage 3 of the instructions. Further minor gap filling and

“PEGASUS IS TO BE COMMENDED FOR RELEASING SUCH KITS”

Available from: Pocketbond, www.pocketbond.co.uk

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{73} 12/08/2015 11:53

BASIC BUILD

THE COSMOSTRATOR sanding became necessary, even considering the decent fit.

Shining star

 The tips of each pod were supposed to have a small visible join, so the liquid Mr. Surfacer 1000 proved adequate for the job. Care really was necessary when handling the pointed rocket nacelles! A strip of Tamiya masking tape was used to protect the clear part for the 360-degree upper viewport in the main body, which also had a pointed tip.

 More filler and Mr. Surfacer were required on the joins between the main body and each rocket pod, although their locating points helped to maximise the fit.

With all the parts prepared, the model received a wipe-over with white spirit to de-grease the surfaces. A needle file, jammed into the rocket pod with the missing engine ‘internals’, served as a hand support for painting, while masking tape strips served to protect the clear part for the upper viewport. Initial coats of paint were actually Alclad ALC 305 Gloss Black Base. Layers were airbrushed in thin coats, allowed to dry, and rubbed gently with a tack cloth to ensure a clean base. The high-shine finish of the rocket was achieved with Alclad II ALC 107 R Chrome lacquer. This had to be built in thin airbrush coats at the relatively low pressure of 15-20psi (1-1.3 bar). Any blemishes in the base quickly became evident using this particularly unforgiving medium! There were a few minor issues and mould flaws still existing, but it was too late to go back now. Once the Chrome finish had dried completely after 24 hours, the finish was polished with a soft cloth. Finally, a top coat of Alclad 2 ALC 600 Aqua Gloss, again airbrushed at the same pressure, sealed the chrome finish for handling. With the masking

removed from the viewport, the completed model certainly looked every part the 1960s cinematic scifi creation.

Return to terra firma In summary, initial impressions of this kit were not that favourable, bearing in mind the parts count versus the retail price. Science fiction modelling subjects do generally cost that little bit extra over more mainstream examples, as they have less market share and sometimes involve licensing costs. The lack of complexity did mean the model should appeal to the casual or novice builder, but this then brings the purchase price and 14-plus age suggestion into question. Cost and ‘complexity’ aside, the model looked impressive once constructed, and is something different from the usual diet of more widely known subjects. Pegasus is to be commended for releasing such kits, although the package could have been improved by the inclusion of a display/ diorama base such as in its T2 Flying Hunter Killer. Frustratingly, this was mentioned by web forums, and in the manufacturer’s information prior to the kit’s release, that a base would be included. We await the next sci-fi offering from Pegasus with great ❚ interest and anticipation!

“IT LOOKED EVERY PART THE 1960s CINEMATIC SCI-FI CREATION”  Alclad ALC 305 Gloss Black Base layers were airbrushed in thin coats on the entire spacecraft.

 Note the masking protecting the viewport from the high-shine finish of the rocket; achieved by using Alclad II ALC 107 R Chrome lacquer.

{74}

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ON THE SHELF

SEND IN YOUR PRODUCTS FOR US TO REVIEW AT: Airfix Model World, Key Publishing Ltd, Units 1-4 Gwash Way Industrial Estate, Ryhall Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1XP, UK

BOOKS & DVDS

AMERICAN DREAM-MAKER colour schemes. There is also a 32-page colour centre-section, which is most satisfying in its coverage of a great many DC-3s worldwide. Some of these shots are also useful for modellers from a detail standpoint. A very handy section lists all DC-3/C-47 airframes (by codes), operated by UK airlines after 1945, and the chapter on Missionary Flights International ably highlights the truly global nature of the type—and this Florida-based company’s expertise in aid and medical flights to poverty-stricken countries. Of course, no book on the DC-3 would be complete without coverage of African and

Australian operations, and there is a chapter dedicated to this arena. Conversions, such as the Basler turboprops, are explored, and the appendix describes DC-3 variants and basic specifications/ performance. A well-rounded examination of a legendary aircraft. CC

BOOK SPEC

Few aircraft possess such a rich history as the Douglas DC-3, and with Airfix’s new Dakota tooling now widely available, this hardback book is an ideal

reference package for civilian builds. The author does take the important step of setting the scene, by describing the DC-1 and DC-2, which were vital precursors, and there is a very interesting comparison chart that shows the main European airliner types contemporary to the DC-2/3. The beginnings of the Douglas company are also explored (did you know that Donald Douglas designed aircraft for the Glen L Martin Co?), before the book delves into the DC-3 proper. While most of the photographs are in black and white, they are generally clear and give much food for thought regarding

Douglas DC-3 By:

Geoff Jones

ISBN:

978-1-78155-103-5

Price:

£20

Format:

255mm x 180mm

Available from: Fonthill Media, www.fonthillmedia.com

GERMANY’S RAIDERS OF THE ATLANTIC

BOOK SPEC

The Admiral Hipper-class heavy cruisers were feared as Atlantic raiders, but suffered from poor range due to the choice of a steam-driven powerplant instead Heavy Cruisers of the Admiral Hipper Class By:

Gerhard Koop and Klaus-Peter Schmolke

ISBN:

978-1-84832195-3

Price:

£16.99

Format:

190mm x 242mm

Available from: Pen & Sword Books, www.pen-and-sword.co.uk

of a diesel. All five units are described, although there is an understandable focus on Admiral Hipper, Blücher and Prinz Eugen, as the final two vessels were never completed... Seydlitz was considered as a potential aircraft carrier conversion, and Lützow was sold to the Soviet Union in 1940. Each section features at least one operational diary, and a biography of the individual after whom the ship was named. The text is accompanied by a large number of period photographs, mostly provided by crewmen, many of which have never been published previously, especially those for Prinz Eugen. Combat

actions are covered in detail, such as the 1942 Battle of Bear Island, where Admiral Hipper and the Deutschland-class Lützow withdrew against an inferior British force. This led directly to Hitler’s infamous order to decommission all heavy warships in early 1943. Other notable actions include Blücher’s ill-fated sortie into Oslo fjord in April 1940, Prinz Eugen’s involvement in the Battle of Denmark Straits in May 1940 and the audacious ‘Channel Dash’ in February 1942. The author’s conclusion is surprisingly critical of the Admiral Hipper class design, and cites inadequate engines, armour and weaponry, although

British heavy cruisers carried guns of the same calibre. In a thought-provoking argument, it even questions the validity of the class as a whole when compared against the more effective Deutschland-class vessels (powered by diesel engines) and U-boats. SF

BRAVO AND NOVEMBER SPOOKS

{76}

been provided by retired US Navy personnel and a scattering is from the USN’s own archives. The quality is generally excellent, too, with almost all being full-colour shots. Diorama builders have it good here, because there are excellent carrier deck views with

sailors and support equipment in the frame. Old favourites such as VF-84 ‘Jolly Rogers’ loom large, with old and new schemes (including Ns from 1975), and it’s also pleasing to see VF-96 birds in earlier garb before the famous Black Falcon motif was applied to the tail (think ‘Showtime 100’); there is also a shot of an F-4B in the latter scheme....unusual as it’s always J-models that are shown in these colours. Lucid captions accompany each photo and the history text offers much for F-4 experts and novices alike. Arguably, the best feature is the selection of photos of VFMA-323 and -531 F-4Ns wearing the little-

photographed ID bands (red/black and yellow/black respectively), which were applied during Operation Eagle Claw...the Iranian hostage rescue attempt in April 1980. Absolutely splendid. CC

BOOK SPEC

I’ve been a die-hard Phantom fanatic since around the age of five, and needless to say, my shelves are packed with books on what is my all-time favourite aircraft. But I’m not alone in this passion for the mighty F-4 and many enthusiasts may wonder, like I did, if another publication on the type can offer anything new. Actually, yes it can! This is a superb photo examination of Atlantic/Pacific Fleet F-4B/Ns, and seemingly all of the photos are previously unpublished. These come from different sources, with around one-third plucked from the personal collection of the author, while others have

Aircraft Pictorial 6 F-4B/N Phantom II By:

Cdr Pete Clayton, USN (Ret)

ISBN:

978-0-9857149-5-6

Price:

US $24

Format:

210mm x 278mm

Available from: Classic Warships Publishing, www.classicwarships.com

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ON THE SHELF BOOKS

BRITISH AVIATION AMALGAM very early days of the companies that, ultimately, helped to form Hawker Siddeley are described and this section is most revealing. But it’s from 1960 when matters get really interesting and a full explanation of the turmoil from that time is given, as well as all major aircraft/weaponry projects. There will be many more relevant products than one realises on reading this work, and the copious array of black and white, and colour photos provides a heady helping of nostalgia and history, as much as it does a valid reference for modellers. There are real classics here, such as the Trident and HS748 airliners, Vulcan and Victor, and of course

the marvellous Harrier and its development forerunners. But Group assets such as de Havilland Canada are also explored and, as such, one receives imagery of the CF-100 and CF-105. A great book, which will serve historians and modellers equally well. CC

BOOK SPEC

The British aviation industry has always been a shining example of what can be achieved under pressure but, it also went through a seemingly endless state of flux after World War Two until

nationalisation in 1977. It was then that the Aviation and Dynamics sectors of Hawker Siddeley merged with the British Aircraft Corporation, and Scottish Aviation, to form British Aerospace. When one thinks back to what exactly was produced by Hawker Siddlely in terms of ‘legacy’ programmes, including the AW Sea Hawk and Avro Shackleton, one has a tantalising theme for research and actual modelling...but then it becomes even better when one takes into account legends such as the Hawker Hunter. The full list of types is dazzling, and all are covered in this wonderful 206-page hardback book. Yes, the

Hawker Siddeley Aviation and Dynamics 1960-77 By:

Stephen Skinner

ISBN:

978-1-84797-739-7

Price:

£29.95

Format:

287mm x 227mm

Available from: The Crowood Press, www.crowood.com

ORCHESTRATING COLD WAR INTERCEPTS

BOOK SPEC

The largest purpose-designed fighter ever built, the Tupolev Tu-128, NATO codename Fiddler, was a little-known asset during the Cold War...even to its own people. It was required to protect the vast northern regions of the Tupolev Tu-128 ‘Fiddler’ By:

Alan Davies, Sergey Burdin, Nikolai Popov

ISBN:

978-1-78155404-3

Price:

£35

Format:

180mm x 255mm

Available from: Fonthill Media, www.fonthillmedia.com

Soviet Union from incursions by NATO intelligence-gathering aircraft, and it was necessarily large, with a requirement to carry four long-range missiles that added further to its size. A personal touch to the narrative is provided by one of the authors, who actually flew the Tu-128 and subsequently the MiG-31 Foxhound. There is also an exceptional level of input from Soviet-era veterans, including former unit commanders, ground-based radar operators and Tu-126 Moss airborne early warning crewmembers. This all adds greatly to the scope and depth of the Fiddler’s tale, and includes how it was developed and operated, before its key

systems are examined and explained. Operational issues were coloured by the type having to operate from at least one base in the high Arctic (above 66°N), where it was subject to extreme weather conditions, notably during the winter months when temperatures would drop to at least -30°C (-22°F). It would appear that the ground crews had plenty of experience in digging aircraft out from the snow! From a combat/ training perspective, the Fiddler was linked to either groundbased radar or a Tu-126 (Soviet equivalent of the NATO AWACS), and there is a lengthy discussion on the mechanisms of how Cold War air interceptions were

managed. One such occurrence was recorded in history by an infamous June 1972 photograph of a Tu-128, and this is told from the viewpoints of the US Air Force co-pilot who took the image, and the Fiddler crew. SF

HANDY HOW-TO GUIDE

{78}

occasionally bête noire subject of rigging biplanes, but with easy step-by-step instructions makes it a very simple process. Other techniques include how to re-scribe panel lines, create rivet details (raised and recessed),

achieve a host of weathering methods, and recreate fabric, wood and natural metal finishes. The latter sections are perhaps the most informative, particularly that concerned with reproducing a fabric effect, and explains clearly how to emulate a translucent surface, as found on wings and fuselages covered with light/unpainted material. Finally, there is a section that deals with the ever-present limitations of time, and sets out how to approach building a kit in a quick and effective manner. There is an element of duplication between the techniques, notably the use of washes to achieve panel

line highlighting, but otherwise this is a brilliant guide. While dedicated to aircraft, the majority of techniques explained are applicable to armour, ship and scifi models, and this is likely to end up on many builders’ benches. SF

BOOK SPEC

Occasionally, the step between building kits straight from the box and more advanced techniques can be a little daunting. Thankfully this smart publication from Valiant Wings is here to help. Intended as the first in a series of ‘hands-on’ guides, it provides advice on a variety of ways to improve one’s modelmaking skills. In addition to aiding newer modellers to these aspects of the hobby, there is plenty to inform more advanced styrene/resin-bashers. Lavishly illustrated, seven builds are used to explore the methods, with colour-coded sections for easy reference. It opens with the

Airframe Workbench Guide: Aircraft Modelling By:

Libor Jekl

ISBN:

978-0-9930908-4-4

Price:

£13.95

Format:

220mm x 212mm

Available from: Valiant Wings, www.valiant-wings.co.uk

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ON THE SHELF

AIRCRAFT KITS

FLYING TANK

STRETCHED CARRIER

SUKHOI’S SESQUIPLANE

{80}

Scale:

1/144

Price:

£19.99

Available from: The Hobby Company, www.hobbyco.net

Scale:

1/72

Price:

£5.99

Available from: The Hobby Company, www.hobbyco.net

Hasegawa’s magnificent A-7E has once more been re-boxed in ‘limited edition’ format with new markings, this time for a special scheme worn by a Greek AF aircraft in 2013 and 2014 respectively. The usual complement of styrene runners and small photo-etched metal fret is unchanged, and the parts are crisply moulded, although flash was present on several components in this sample. External detail is provided in the form of delicate engraved panel lines, and the moulded cockpit features will benefit greatly from careful painting and dry-brushing. There A-7E Corsair II ‘Hellenic Air are numerous build options, which include raised/lowered undercarriage, Force Special’ airbrake, flaps and slats, folded By: Hasegawa wingtips and an open avionics bay. Item no: 07391 Two schemes are provided, both of Scale: 1/48 which feature the same eye-catching grey/black pirate scheme, the only Price: £49.99 difference between the two being the Available from: presence of an ‘Air Tattoo ‘14’ logo on Amerang, www.amerang.co.uk the second aircraft.

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

for when the passenger door is in the open position. The decal sheet provides a full complement of airframe stencils, but just a single scheme is provided, for the Airbus test-bed airframe.

AEGEAN PIRATE

Although produced as a Tupolev airframe, the I-4 sesquiplane (one-anda-half wing) was designed by the renowned Pavel Sukhoi, and was the Soviet Union’s first all-metal fighter. This offering from Zvezda looks to be a re-release of the Encore kit, and one can build either the ANT-5, I-4 or I-4Z variants. All of the parts are well moulded, and the corrugated ANT-5 (I-4, I-4Z) Soviet surfaces on the airframe have been Fighter rendered faithfully. Interior detail By: Zvezda is minimal, but there is a range of Item no: 7271 splendid under and overwing stores. A simple decal sheet is included, but a yellow tint was apparent on this sample. The two schemes are: • ANT-5, Unknown serial, Soviet Air Force, early 1930s • I-4, 2, Soviet Air Force, early 1930s

Zvezda has taken a leaf out of Airbus’ book with its new-tool A321, and has re-boxed two runners from its A320 with a new frame that includes a longer fuselage and correct wing control surfaces. Three build configurations are offered, in-flight, landing/take-off and wheels down, and a stand is provided for the former two options. Windows are provided on four lengths of clear styrene, rather than decals, and while this should ease assembly, it will mean much additional masking prior to painting. Airbus A-321 Civil Airliner The undercarriage and interior are By: Zvezda well detailed and the latter includes Item no: 7017 an entrance passage/galley section

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

A true Cold War classic, Monogram’s excellent Mi-24 Hind, which was nicknamed the ‘Flying Tank’ in Soviet/Russian service, has been re-released by Revell. Raised panel lines may cause modellers to reach for the scribing tools but otherwise, this is a pleasing package. Given its early origins the kit does have accuracy issues, but the majority should be easy to address. Revell has incorrectly labelled the options as Hind E airframes; in fact, all are Hind Ds, although countermeasures dispensers will need to be added to the Mil Mi-24D Hind-D Polish and German aircraft. The three By: Revell schemes are: Item no: 04942 • 414, East German Army, Cottbus AB, 1985 Scale: 1/48 • 98+31, German Air Force, Manching Price: £22.99 AB, 1995 Available from: • 457, Polish Air Force, OnowrocławRevell, www.revell.de/en Latkowo AB, 2006

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ON THE SHELF

AIRCRAFT KITS

BIPLANE AMBULANCE

PRODUCT SPEC

ICM has re-boxed its superb U-2/Po-2 as the ambulance variant, with new runners for the wing-mounted pods, which were used to carry injured personnel. The quality of moulds is impressive, with fine engraved panel lines on the exterior and accurate tapered profiles to the wing trailing edges and tailfin. Interior and engine detail is first rate, especially the complex exhaust system, and these components will look stunning once they have been painted and dry-brushed. Options for wheeled U-2/Po-2 with pods and ski-type undercarriage are By: ICM included, as are a choice of over or Item no: 48253 underwing pods. Just two schemes are offered, one camouflage and one Scale: 1/48 overall white, to represent aircraft Price: £11.99 belonging to unidentified units that Available from: operated in summer 1943 and winter ICM, www.icm.com.ua 1942 respectively.

The PZL-23 was designed as a light bomber and reconnaissance aircraft, and served with the Romanian Air Force, albeit in limited numbers. Mirage Hobby's kit features a highly detailed cockpit, which is enhanced by photo-etched metal components, and there is a choice of spatted or un-spatted undercarriage. Mould PZL-23 Karas I & II quality is generally good, but there is a rough texture to all of the external By: Mirage Hobby surfaces, and on this sample the Item no: 481304 main canopy is warped slightly. The Scale: 1/48 three schemes portray aircraft from the 3rd Bomb Flotilla-Craiova, 73rd Bomb Squadron, 3rd Bomb Group: • Karas I, nr. 10, • Karas I, nr. 6 • Karas II, nr. 12

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

Eduard’s series of 1/72 Bf 110 kits is arguably the most accurate to date, and this re-boxing depicts the C-variant. As expected, the parts are splendid, with delicate engraved panel lines, and a variety of weapons and equipment options. There is even a complete spare fuselage for a long-tailed aircraft, although there is a suspicion that the rear section may be slightly narrow. The cockpit is crammed with equipment, and features a full set of radios and spare magazine drums for the MG FF cannon. With the inclusion of pre-painted fabric Bf 110C ‘Weekend Edition’ seatbelts, this area will look fantastic. By: Eduard The small decal sheet provides all of the Item no: 7426 basic aircraft markings, which includes Scale: 1/72 national insignia for the tailfins and full bomb tallies. Two schemes are offered: Price: €14.95 • 2N+AP, 9./JG 76 Available from: • 2N+IR, I.(Z)/JG 77, Kirkenes, Norway, Eduard, www.eduard.com September 1941

ALL-METAL RECCE

Price:

€36.86

Available from: Mirage Hobby, www.mhshop.pl

BRAVO-DELTA TRAINER

Hot on the heels of its excellent single-seat F-106, Trumpeter has now released the two-seat version of this classic Cold War interceptor. The differences are captured on two replacement runners, which provide the longer fuselage, cockpit, air-refuelling receptacle and weapons bay. Embellishments for the ejection seats and canopy raising mechanism are furnished on a small photoetched metal fret and the overall level of detail is excellent. The only downside is the lack of full intake trunking, although once assembled little detail F-106B Delta Dart will be visible. Two schemes are offered, By: Trumpeter but these are for the same units as the Item no: 02892 F-106A release, which is disappointing Scale: 1/48 given the number of Fighter Interceptor Squadrons (FIS) and Air National Guard Price: £44.99 (ANG) units which operated the type: Available from: • 57-2514, 119th FIS, 177th TFW, New Pocketbond, Jersey ANG www.pocketbond.co.uk • 57-2533/02, 125th FW, Florida ANG

PRODUCT SPEC

TWIN-ENGINE DESTROYER

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ON THE SHELF

AIRCRAFT KITS

SINGAPORE FLAG-CARRIERS

PRODUCT SPEC

Hasegawa has given aerobatic team fans a stunning option with its re-released ‘Viper’, in the colours of Singapore’s Black Knights display outfit. This kit depicts the Block 30/32 airframe with common engine bay (GE or P&W powerplants), and small and ‘big mouth’ intakes. There are fine panel lines and generally pleasing detail, which includes moulded features on the instrument panel and side consoles. Easily the best point about this package is the simply dazzling livery, applied to the jets F-16C Fighting Falcon ‘Black in 2014 after the team’s almost sixKnights’ year hibernation. One can portray By: Hasegawa any of the six aircraft, and the Item no: 07395 white decals do seem thick enough to avoid bleed-through of the Scale: 1/48 necessary red paint underneath. Price: £34.99 Neat masking and painting is vital, Available from: though, as no white decals are Amerang, www.amerang.co.uk supplied for the underside.

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We now have an up-to-date 1/48 example of the futuristic F-16XL. The cranked-arrow wing is reproduced well, and the cockpit is impressive, with crisp moulded detail; the undercarriage is also well appointed. Generic runners from Kinetic’s F-16 kits feature, but the bulk of the nonairframe parts offers a massive armoury. A ‘standard’ XL can be built clean, or one can opt for the ‘what-if’ schemes provided. Period images show Mk.82 ‘slicks’ carried, but just Mk.82 Snakeyes are provided here. Livery-wise, the original prototype is catered for, along with NASA’s smart F-16XL Experimental Fighter black, yellow and grey example and By: Skunkmodels three fictional aircraft. Workshop • 75-0749, prototype, 1982 Item no: 48026 • 75-0849, NASA, 1995-2000s Scale: 1/48 • 90-0776/FT, 75th FS, 23rd FW USAF Price: US $39.99 • 90-0708/WA, 16th WS, 57th Wing, Available from: USAF Lucky Model, • 512, 101 Squadron, Israeli Defense www.luckymodel.com Force

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

Eduard’s ‘Sturmböck’ gets another airing, with photo-etched (PE) metal and masks. The R2 was a heavily armoured version for close-in bomber attack, and this kit offers the extra plating on alternative fuselage halves. The trademark Scheuklappen canopy armour also features for two of the schemes, but the R2’s outboard 30mm cannon are portrayed simply by shortening the existing 20mm barrels. With a fully detailed engine and separate cowling panels, this is a wonderful kit...but not for the novice as the fit is notoriously tricky in the power egg area. The PE gives plenty of refinement for the cockpit, and there are seven colour schemes, which include a captured aircraft flown by the USA’s 404th FG. Some of the liveries are: Fw 190A-8/R2 • White 11 + –, Walter Wagner, 5./JG 4, By: Eduard January 1, 1945 Item no: 8175 • Yellow 1 + –, Ewals Prieß, 6./JG 300, Scale: 1/48 October 1944 • Black 10 + –, Karl Spenst, 8./JG 300, Price: €29.95 December 1944 Available from: • Green 3, H-G von Kornatzki, Stab./ Eduard, www.eduard.com II.(Sturm)/JG 4, September 11, 1944

CRANKED-ARROW VIPER

DOUBLE-DELTA FIGHTER-BOMBER

AMW featured Tarangus’ JA 37 earlier this year. As it was a joint effort between that firm and Special Hobby, the latter now gets a shot at its own release. This boxing is similar to its forerunner, but has appropriate decals for airframes in the splinter pattern, and aluminium. The detail is impressive, and can be improved in the cockpit via included pre-painted PE. There are niggles, such as the wrong panel line angle on the canards, and the lack of weapons. SAAB AJ 37 Viggen ‘Attack Three schemes are provided by way version’ of the well-printed decals, and these By: Special Hobby include an aluminium aircraft with Item no: SH48148 Luftwaffe ‘zaps’: Scale: 1/48 • 7/62, F7 Wing, Såtenäs, 1990s (splinter) Price: €70 • 7/22, F7 Wing, Såtenäs (as seen at Available from: Buchel, Germany), 1973 Special Hobby, • 15/10, F15 Wing, Söderhamn, 1978 www.cmkkits.com (splinter)

PRODUCT SPEC

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

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ON THE SHELF

MILITARY KITS

SECOND SKIN

ARMOURED BEAR

RED POLUTORKA

wrapped around the running gear. Just two schemes are provided: • 251, Unknown unit, Victory Day Parade, Moscow, 2011 • 522, 7th Krasnodar Red Banner Base, Guduata, Abkhazia, 2009/10

Scale:

1/72

Price:

£12.99

Available from: The Hobby Company, www.hobbyco.net

DESERT CHARIOT

There is plenty of nostalgia with Tamiya’s re-release of the venerable M3 Grant Mk.I. Despite its age, the moulds are crisp and flash-free, but there are prominent seams that will need to be removed, and its various inaccuracies have not been corrected. These include the turret size and shape, incorrect road wheels (which should have five holes/spokes and not six) and the vinyl tracks, which feature connector pins mid-way on each link, rather than at the ends. The prominent bolt heads are well represented on the hull, and a M3 Grant Mk.I single crew figure is supplied, although By: Tamiya there is no interior detail. Three desert Item no: 35041 schemes are provided: Scale: 1/35 • T23505, 7th Armoured Division, El Alamein, 1942 Price: £19.99 • T25027, 8th Armoured Brigade, El Available from: Alamein, 1942 The Hobby Company, • T24210, 22nd Armoured Brigade, www.hobbyco.net Gazala, 1942

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

Mention legendary Soviet war machines and few modellers would include the humble GAZ AA truck. Known as the ‘Polutorka’ (one-and-ahalf), it was produced in greater numbers than any other vehicle during World War Two. This release from Zvezda is a re-boxed Toko kit, and is available in two forms, the 1.5ton truck and the GAZ AA, although the contents of both are identical. Compared to more modern offerings, Soviet Army 1.5ton Truck WWII there are heavy mould seams By: Zvezda (particularly on the vinyl tyres) and Item no: 3602 sink marks on several parts, although the majority feature a mixture of Scale: 1/35 crisp raised and engraved detail. Price: £14.99 Curiously, the decal sheet provides Available from: different markings to the instruction The Hobby Company, sheet, with just a single scheme for www.hobbyco.net an overall Russian Green vehicle.

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Zvezda’s newly tooled T-90 features outstanding detail on all components, particularly the upper hull and turret. The standout elements are the multi-part infra-red jammers and exquisite NSV 12.5mm heavy machine gun mount. Optional external fuel tanks are included, along with a neat part to replicate fuel lines from these items, and all T-90 Russian Main Battle hatches can be attached in open Tank or closed positions. Unusually, the By: Zvezda tracks are provided as styrene Item no: 5020 lengths, which will need to be

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

Just when one thought Dragon had covered all possible variants of the Panzer IV, it has released a new item. This is the Ausf.A Zusatzpanzer (additional armour) variant, but is otherwise almost identical to its earlier incarnation, and the major difference is the photo-etched metal armour plating. Pz.Kpfw.IV Ausf.A mit A pleasing level of interior detail is Zusatzpanzer included with the turret, which includes By: Dragon a baseplate, and there is a gorgeous Item no: 6816 hull-mounted MG34. Tracks are in the form of DS styrene lengths, and Scale: 1/35 while not to everyone’s taste, they are Price: £59.99 replicated perfectly and will be quick to Available from: assemble. A tiny decal sheet provides The Hobby Company, for a single overall Panzer Grey scheme, www.hobbyco.net which is of an unidentified vehicle.

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ON THE SHELF

MILITARY KITS

GLOBAL BRAWLER

MONSTER RAILCAR

UNIVERSAL LAND ROVER

PRODUCT SPEC

This release by Revell is a re-boxing of the ancient Italeri Series III long wheelbase Land Rover kit. Although basic compared to more modern products, it captures accurately the vehicle's ascetic nature, and the suspension and transmission are particularly good. The styrene wheels/ tyres are well moulded, even if they lack a centre tread. Disappointingly, given the options for European vehicles, there is just a right-hand British 4x4 Off-Road Vehicle drive interior provided and the door Series III (109”/LWB) interiors lack detail. Four schemes By: Revell are included: Item no: 03246 • British Army, CHOSC, Operation Desert Sabre, Kuwait, 1991 Scale: 1/35 • British Army, BAOR, Germany, 1976 Price: £17.99 • Royal Dutch Army, 104th Recce Bn, Available from: Exercise Free Lion, 1988 Revell, www.revell.ge/en • Royal Danish Army, 1986

PRODUCT SPEC

The PanzerTriebwagen Nr.16 was a heavy armoured railway car that operated on the Eastern Front, with 7.6cm gun mounts at each end and the diesel drive unit located in between. Trumpeter’s newly tooled kit is an impressive beast, packed with more than 500 styrene and 200 photo-etched metal (PE) components. Standout features include the huge 13 ½in (340mm) three-sided, single-piece centre section, (a truly German Armored Train outstanding piece of moulding) PanzerTriebwagen Nr.16 and the three bogie units, each of By: Trumpeter which is effectively a miniature kit Item no: 00223 in its own right. A length of railway track bed acts as a stand and, Scale: 1/35 especially when combined with Price: £89.99 other Trumpeter rail kits, will make Available from: a formidable display. No decals are Pocketbond, provided, and the single scheme is www.pocketbond.co.uk for an overall German Grey machine.

RAD-ICAL RECCE

Designed as a series of heavy armoured reconnaissance vehicles, the Schwere Panzerspähwagen family has been the subject of several AFV Club products, and the latest is the newly tooled eight-wheeled Sd.Kfz.233. Attention to detail is the by-word for this kit, and there is a fully detailed driver’s section and fighting compartment; the latter features an incredible 7.5cm KwK Sd.Kfz.233 8-Rad with 7.5cm 37 L/24 gun and mount. Tyres are gun provided as black vinyl items, with a By: AFV Club finely reproduced tread. Final touches Item no: AF35233 include a turned-metal gun muzzle and photo-etched metal fittings. Two Scale: 1/35 Dunkelgelb schemes are offered: Price: £44.99 • WH 180 867, 10th Pz.Div., Tunisia, Available from: November 1942 Pocketbond, • WH 39 784, 10th Pz.Div., Tunisia www.pocketbond.co.uk November 1942

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

For modellers who long hoped for an accurate M60 tank, the wait is over with the release of AFV Club’s A1 version. It features a staggering amount of exterior detail, which includes superb rendering of the cast armour, and multipart engine decking. The interior is not forgotten, and although the majority is empty, there is a well-appointed driver’s section and commander’s cupola. Favourable impressions are enhanced by a turned-metal gun barrel and two small photo-etched metal frets. The tracks are vinyl lengths, which feature good representations of the pad design M60A1 Patton and inner surface details. Five schemes are offered, which include: By: AFV Club • 224, Austrian Army Item no: AF35060 • 817878, IDF, Sinai, Yom Kippur War, Scale: 1/35 October 1973 • JJ00DA ’Smokin’/’Hangman’, 3rd Price: £54.99 Battalion, 3rd Armored Division, US Available from: Army, 1977 Pocketbond, • 508938, Unknown unit, US Marine www.pocketbond.co.uk Corps

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ON THE SHELF AUTO KITS

HYBRID SUPERCAR

HEAVY TRANSPORT

FAR EASTERN ROADSTER

Truck modellers will welcome the re-release of Italeri’s classic Berliet R352ch, which can also be built as the Renault R360 version. It’s hard to believe the age of these moulds, as all parts are crisp and the detail is comparable with modern releases. Most of the build will be concerned with the assembly of the intricate engine, transmission and vehicle suspension, but there is also a busy Berliet R352ch/Renault cab interior. A single chrome runner R360 provides the majority of polished metal components, and the tyres By: Italeri are replicated as vinyl items. One Item no: 3902 major change is the use of black Scale: 1/24 metallic-coloured styrene for the cab exterior. Just a single scheme is Price: £47.99 offered, regardless of whether this is Available from: constructed as a Berliet or Renault The Hobby Company, vehicle, and nine registration plate www.hobbyco.net decals are provided.

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

BMW’s i8 is an eye-catching design, and Revell has now released a production version of this combined petrol/electric-powered vehicle. Newly tooled, the detail on the parts is fantastic, particularly the left-hand drive console, door interiors and the complex hybrid powerplant. The low-profile vinyl tyres are a faithful reproduction of the real items and feature well-defined tread. Just a single scheme is offered, for a black vehicle with blue trim, although BMW i8 modellers are advised to refer to the By: Revell BMW website to capture fully the Item no: 07008 nuances of the interior hues. Revell’s diverse selection of European and US Scale: 1/24 registration plates will delight most Price: £22.99 modellers, but the lack of a rightAvailable from: hand drive option means that the UK Revell, www.revell.de/en numbers are not applicable.

FRESH-AIR BUG

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Fans of the iconic Beetle will welcome Revell’s re-released 1970 Cabriolet version, complete with contemporary box-top artwork. Thankfully the idiosyncrasies of this classic vehicle have been captured accurately, from fabric door pockets through to the air vents surrounding the speedometer. The rear-mounted 1500cc engine and associated gearbox are packed with detail, and options include raised or lowered top, open/closed engine cover and a choice of left- or right-hand drive consoles. Two chrome-plated runners VW Beetle Cabriolet 1970 are provided, but these appear to carry By: Revell less-well-defined components, and Item no: 07078 there are noticeable sink marks on the Scale: 1/24 wing mirrors. The tyres are provided as four vinyl items, and feature crisp Price: £19.99 tread. Just a single colour scheme is Available from: provided, although there is a choice of Revell, www.revell.de/en registrations from 13 countries.

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

Tamiya will delight many modellers with this newly tooled Honda S600 roadster; a type that has received little attention, with just an inaccurate and long-out-of-production Fujimi kit being produced. Mould quality is first-rate, and there is a pleasing level of detail, which includes an accurate instrument panel and an embossed ‘Honda’ logo on the rocker cover. Options include a choice of hard or soft tops (the latter provided in raised and lowered form), the bonnet may be opened to display Honda S600 the engine, but just a right-hand By: Tamiya drive vehicle can be built. A single Item no: 24340 chrome-plated runner is included, which may not please all modellers, Scale: 1/24 but the majority of attachment Price: £24.99 gates are on the base of the parts. Available from: Two colour schemes are suggested, The Hobby Company, although just a basic ‘Honda S600’ www.hobbyco.net number plate is offered.

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ON THE SHELF FIGURES

AT THE RACES

COLOURFUL COLONIAL

Item no:

ESCF 5

Scale:

1/24 or 1/25

Price:

$16

ALL ABOARD!

PRODUCT SPEC

The one element missing from AFV Club’s excellent AEC Matador/Dorchester kits has been suitable crew/passengers. Thankfully, Hobby Fan has stepped up to the mark with this wonderful set of four figures, namely a British Army driver and three ‘squaddies’. Each comprises separate head, helmet, torso/legs and arms, and the sculpting captures the look of the standard British World War Two battledress very well. The only drawback to these and other Hobby Fan figures is the lack of suitable painting references for the basic colours, so research is advisable. British AEC Truck Crew By:

Hobby Fan

Item no:

HF726

Scale:

1/35

Price:

£41.99

Available from: Pocketbond, www.pocketbond.co.uk

The detail is basic, but given the simple cut of the clothes, this is not surprising, and the goggles and tie are well sculpted. Several seam marks and depressions will need to be filled, but once sanded will provide an excellent canvas on which to reproduce the worn and dirtied post-race look of typical racing outfits of that period.

ANTIPODEAN FIGHTERS

ICM appears to be hitting all the anniversaries with its latest batch of releases and this set of ANZAC troops, which has arrived in the centenary year of its formation, is no exception. From the artwork and appearance of the figures, these look to depict troops either stationed in Egypt or who participated in the ill-fated Gallipoli landings. Three different groupings are included, an observer/officer looking over the trench parapet with a periscope, a soldier running with a rifle and a pair of troops, either on sentry duty or taking a rest break. Excellent detail abounds, and there are plenty of weapons, courtesy of the generic British Army small arms runner. ANZAC Infantry (1915) By:

ICM

Item no:

35685

Scale:

1/35

Price:

£6.99

Available from: ICM, www.icm.com.ua

French Turco Algerian 1870 By:

Ellie’s Miniatures

Item no: EM/10 Scale:

75mm

Price:

£32

Available from: Ellie’s Miniatures, www.elliesminiatures.com

COMMANDING PRESENCE

Perfect for AFV Club’s new M60A1 (reviewed on p.85 this issue), Hobby Fan’s Tank Commander is depicted as if surveying the situation before issuing orders. As usual, the quality of sculpting and casting of the parts is superb, none more so than the head, which features an accurate overhang to the helmet and, once the remaining sliver of flash has been removed, a realistic microphone boom that is not attached firmly to the cheek. With separate arms and a single component for the torso/ legs, this will be easy to build. M60A1 Tank Commander By:

Hobby Fan

Item no:

HF728

Scale:

1/35

Price:

£9.99

Available from: Pocketbond, www.pocketbond.co.uk

the delineation between various layers is sharp; these will benefit from careful painting, shading and wash/filter treatment. Helpfully, a paint guide for the colourful uniform is included, along with a strip of lead foil for the rifle sling.

NEPALESE WARRIORS

With impeccable timing for the commemoration of 200 years’ Ghurka service in the British Army, ICM has released a set of World War Two Gurkha Rifles figures. It depicts an impromptu briefing scene and comprises a British officer and three Nepalese soldiers as they prepare to move out on patrol. Each figure features sharp detail, especially on the tunic, with the webbing and even the officer’s pistol lanyard all defined clearly. The Gurkhas’ feared kukri knife is provided among a varied collection of weaponry, which includes Lee-Enfield .303 rifles with bayonets and a Thompson submachine gun.

PRODUCT SPEC

Etzel’s Speed Classics

PRODUCT SPEC

By:

PRODUCT SPEC

‘20s/’30s Standing Driving Figure with Reversed Hat

Available from: American Racing Miniatures, www.americanracing miniatures.com

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Paused at rest after a long march, Ellie’s Miniatures' new 75mm Turco-Algerian figure had had a tiring day. This expressive subject, which depicts a North African Colonial trooper circa 1870, features crisp sculpting by Maurice Corry and is posed leaning on a stick, and carries a backpack, sleeping roll, rifle and canteen. The tunic and trousers are replicated beautifully, and

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

Etzel’s Speed Classics is a relatively new range of figures, all designed to match American Racing Miniatures’ range of mixedmedia 1/24 and 1/25 car kits. This latest release is clad in racing gear and, with his hat reversed to allow him to wear goggles, is posed standing with one hand on his hip, the other holding a driving glove.

Gurkha Rifles (1942-1944) By:

ICM

Item no:

35563

Scale:

1/35

Price:

£6.99

Available from: ICM, www.icm.com.ua

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ON THE SHELF

DECAL SHEETS

COLOURFUL CHASE PLANES

Rocketeer Decals

Item no:

RD72007

Scale: Price:

1/72 2,100 Yen

Available from: Rocketeer Decals, www.rocketeer.jp

yellow, white and grey panels. Paper templates are also included to complete some schemes, and there’s also an unrealised livery with the more modern NASA logo. Choices include: • F-104N, 011, 012 and 812, 1963 • F-104G, N826NA/826, 1975 • F-104G, N811NA, 1975

NOSE ART JUGS

PRODUCT SPEC

Aircraft of the 56th Fighter Group arguably wore some of the best nose art in the European theatre. Here, Kits World confirms the fact with two schemes for the famous ‘Wolfpack’. Both for ‘Razorback’ P-47Ds, one wears

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P-47D By:

Kits World

Item no: KW148134 Scale:

1/48

Price:

£10.20

Available from: Kits World, www.kitsworld.co.uk

PRODUCT SPEC

For anyone with 1/72 Hasegawa/ Italeri Blackbird builds on the cards, why not consider these cool options for USAF-operated

F-104A & G NASA Officers 2.0 By:

SUPER-FAST SPIES

SR-71A USAF ‘Ichi Ban’ 2.0 By:

Rocketeer Decals

Item no:

RD72010

Scale:

1/72

Price:

1,500 Yen

Available from: Rocketeer Decals, www.rocketeer.jp

aircraft. In the famous matt black finish, and with copious amounts of stencilling and accurate national insignia, the printing of these markings is top notch, but the information on the instructions is a little confusing. The three well-known schemes are: • 64-17974 ‘Ichi Ban’, 9th SRW, Beale AFB, 1972 • 64-17967, 9th SRW, Kadena AFB, 1978 • 64-17975, 9th SRW, Kadena AFB, 1989

BEAUTIFUL BRISTOLS

the later improvised green/grey over Neutral Gray, while the other sits firmly in old school Olive Drab over Neutral Gray. For the latter, Kits World has provided blueedged stars and bars, although a photo in the new AJ Press book on this unit (see News, this issue), does seem to show the insignia with red surrounds. Kits World’s printing is good, though, and insignia and very basic stencils are provided for the pair: • 42-26298/LM-A ‘Stalag Luft III/ Button Nose’, Lt A Knafelz • 42-7937/LM-Q ‘Triss’, Lt AR Carcione, 62nd FS, February 1944

Xtradecal’s splendid octet is a worthy choice for Airfix’s stunning new kit, or older options from Hasegawa. Well-known Coastal Command machines mingle with high-visibility post-war target-towing aircraft, an RAF example from Burma and an Aussie airframe with a splendid piece of nose art, literally ‘on the nose’. Extensive painting information is offered, along with notes on structural subtleties. Some of the choices include: • TF.X, NE425/2-G, 404 Sqn RCAF, Davidstow Moor, 1945 • TT.21, A8-265, 30 (TT) Sqn, Air Trials Unit, RAAF,

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

If one is looking for Starfighter schemes that are a little different, then this sheet is for you. The package provides decals for the incredibly smart NASA chase aircraft, with five main liveries shown in colour on the instructions, but with extra codes to portray other machines in the fleet. Most of the F-104s are blue and white, but the standout choice is the bare-metal ‘Novembers’ with Dayglo,

Bristol Beaufighter Mk.X, TF.Mk.X, Mk.21 & TT.Mk.21 By:

Xtradecal

Item no:

X72227

Scale:

1/72

Price:

£7.99

Available from: Hannants, www.hannants.co.uk

Woomera, Australia, 1948 • TF.X, LZ293/MB-T, 236 Sqn RAF, North Coates, 1944 • Mk.X, KW393/W, 27 Sqn RAF, Burma, early 1945 • Mk.21, A8-23/EH-C, Fg Off AS Burton and Plt Off RW Lyons, 31 Sqn RAAF, Morotai, 1945 • TF.X, LZ451/EE-M, Wg Cdr AK Gatward DSO, 404 Sqn RCAF, Strubby, 1944

Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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ON THE SHELF

DECAL SHEETS

TROPICAL COLOURS

PRODUCT SPEC

Fighters over Africa and the Mediterranean Pt.1 By:

Xtradecal

Item no: X72228 Scale:

1/72

Price:

£7.99

Available from: Hannants, www.hannants.co.uk

• Kittyhawk Mk.IV, FX666/CV-V, 450 Sqn RAAF, Italy, 1944 • Spitfire Mk.Vb (Trop), JK792/WR-O ‘B Lucky III’, 1 Sqn SAAF, LG.128, 1942 • Spitfire Mk.Vc (Trop), KJ-Z, 4 Sqn SAAF, Sicily, 1943 • Mustang Mk.IV, KH716/CV-P, 3 Sqn RAAF, Italy, 1945

PRODUCT SPEC

Equally fascinating and attractive subjects feature on Xtradecal’s second tropical instalment, which shouldn’t be missed by anyone interested in modelling aircraft from this theatre. Another 11 liveries are provided for Spitfires, Hurricanes, Mustangs and Curtiss Hawks and the camouflage is just as varied, too. The standout inclusions are a very smart Greek AF Spitfire and a chequer-tailed Kittyhawk. Some examples are: • Hurricane Mk.I (Trop), Z4932/ OL-B ‘Kiwi’, Sub-Lt M Fell, RN Fighter Sqn, Libya, 1940 • Mustang Mk.IV, KH682/GN-B, 249 Sqn RAF, Italy, 1944 • Spitfire Mk.Vc (Trop), JG959/ AX-N ‘Cirecooks VI’, Lt MES Fighters over Africa and the Mediterranean Pt.2 By:

Xtradecal

Item no:

X72229

Scale:

1/72

Price:

£7.99

Available from: Hannants, www.hannants.co.uk

Robinson, 1 Sqn SAAF, Tunisia, 1943 • Spitfire Mk.IXc, MJ730/GZ-?, Sqn Ldr G Silvester DFC, 32 Sqn RAF, Greece, 1944 • Tomahawk Mk.IIb, BV158/ WR-A, 40 Sqn SAAF, North Africa, 1942 • Kittyhawk Mk.II, FS490/CV-V, Wg Cdr B Eaton, 3 Sqn RAAF, Italy, 1943 • Mustang Mk.III, FB271/HS-◊, 260 Sqn RAF, Italy, 1945

Mosquito Airframe stencil/ data markings (part 1) All marks By:

Aviaeology

Item no: AOD24505 Scale:

1/24

Price:

Can $8.25

Available from: Aviaeology, www.aviaeology.com

CANUCK MOSSIES If one has Airfix’s 1/24 Mosquito, don’t ignore these stunning markings for Canadian examples. Although just two sheets are pictured here, there are five sheets in total (size varies) and one receives all relevant national insignia and codes/serials. The best feature is arguably the choice of schemes due to the highly attractive nose art. Aviaeology has provided its usual wealth of detail on the black and white instructions, but anyone buying directly from the company has access to colour PDFs. Four FB.VIs from 418 Squadron RCAF, based in the UK or on the continent,

PRODUCT SPEC

HOT WINGS

These stencils have been printed to complement Aviaeology’s 1/24 Mosquito schemes also reviewed this month (below). Obviously with Airfix’s kit in mind, this selection offers large red Keep Off markings, Fuel data, Trestle, Coolant, First Aid, W/T and a host of other stencils. The firm’s instructions are of the usual highly informative nature, and these decals will properly complete any 1/24 build.

PRODUCT SPEC

DESIRABLE DATA

This theatre is tops for interesting schemes, and Xtradecal offers great value via 11 options for Spits, Hurricanes, Mustangs and a Kittyhawk flown in warmer climbs. The variation in camouflage is great, and the fact that Australian and South African units are represented is also most welcome. Of the total selection, choices include: • Hurricane Mk.IIc (Trop), HL885/ AX-Z ‘Oops!’, 1 Sqn, SAAF, 258 Wing, 1942 • Spitfire Mk.IXc, MH904/AX-E, 1 Sqn, SAAF, Italy, 1944 • Mustang Mk.III, FB244/OK-F, 450 Sqn, RAAF, Italy, 1945

RCAF Mosquitoes Canadians in Fighter Command #1 By:

Aviaeology

Item no:

AOD24005m

Scale:

1/24

Price:

Can $22.89

Available from: Aviaeology, www.aviaeology.com

are represented here: • (Series 1) HJ719/TH-U ‘Moonbeam McSwine’, Holmsey South, 1944 • (Series II) HR147/TH-Z ‘Hairless Joe’, Hunsdon, 1944 • (mid-Series II) NS850/TH-M ‘Black Rufe’, Holmsey South, 1944 • (late-Series II) SZ976/TH-V ‘Amigo Panchito’, RAF 2nd TAF, Coxyde, Belgium, 1945

Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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12/08/2015 12:00

ON THE SHELF

DECAL SHEETS

WORKHORSE LIGHT TWIN

Intended for HK Models’ 1/32 Mosquito Mk.IV, these stencils by Profimodeller are applicable to any bomber-nosed variant and the majority will be of use on most versions of the

C-45 By:

Belcher Bits

Item no:

BD29-1

Scale:

1/48

Price:

Can $12.99

Available from: Belcher Bits, www.belcherbits.com

LARGE-SCALE BUG TEXT

VX-10, RCN, 1955 • Expeditor 3N, 1510/904, VC-920, RCN, 1960 • JRB-1, Maj Gen Vandergrift, 1 Marine Division, Australia, 1942 • SNB-5, 51323/WZ, USMC, 1965 • C-45H, 210893, USAF, 1966 • Expeditor 3, 1391, RCAF, 1965 • Expeditor 3N, 2340, RCAF, 1968

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

It’s pleasing to see markings for the Beechcraft Model 18 family (an unsung hero), especially as ICM has released its own 1/48 kit. Here, Canada’s Belcher Bits offers seven liveries in this twosheet package, some being for that country’s air force and navy, along with US Marines and USAF examples. Some of these are of later airframes, which had longer engine nacelles, re-worked leading edges and an astrodome, but Belcher has just released these vital features in a conversion set (see Accessories) for ICM’s kit. All but one of the schemes are colourful, and they are: • Expeditor 3N, 2368/710,

FRENCH-BUILT HAULER

Mosquito Universal Stencil Data By:

Profimodeller

Item no:

32244

Scale:

1/32

Price:

€11.95

Available from: Profimodeller, ww.profimodeller.com

aircraft. All of the numerous markings are in perfect register and there are even several for the airframe interior. Of note, four of the optional decals (Number 47) will need to have an errant ‘E’ removed if the modeller intends to add the ‘CUT HERE’ annotations. The printing and colour look spot on, and the gloss carrier film should ensure minimal silvering once applied. With more than 200 individual decals, this will not be a quick addition to a model, but the overall result will be spectacular.

VOUGHT PART-TIMERS

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Renault AHN German Service WWII By:

SBS Model

Item no:

D35002

Scale:

1/35

Price:

€6

Available from: SBS Model, www.sbsmodel.com

actually applied (these being all about the actual painting), but the printing quality is good and a small photo-etched brass fret also features and this carries three registration plates. With Panzer Grey, threecolour and whitewash all featuring, the liveries are: • WH 1170936, Eastern Front, 1942 • WH 1200626, Eastern front, 1942-43 • SS 1491143, s.Pz.Abt.509. Transport Corps, France, 1944

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

Three German Army schemes are provided here with ICM’s AHN kit in mind. The sheet is small as few markings were

Our recent excursion to the IPMS USA National Convention offered the opportunity to hook-up with Starfighter Decals, and we’ll be bringing you more reviews of the firm’s latest products in coming issues. This package, sub-titled Corsairs in the Reserves, is the Bent Wing Birds Pt.2 By:

Starfighter Decals

Item no:

72147

Scale:

1/72

Price:

US $10

Available from: Starfighter Decals, www.starfighter-decals.com

second instalment in Starfighter’s examination of the type, and this collection comprises three postwar naval reserve schemes and a proper warbird. These decals are beautifully thin and should beddown well with, or without setting solution. All aircraft wear the Gloss Sea Blue scheme, but the reserve birds have colour bands around the rear fuselage. The options are: • FG-1D, 92041/G3, NAS Livermore, late 1946 • FG-1D, 92236/68/FF, NAS Oakland, October 1948 • FG-1D, 92150/70/T, NAS Sand Point, Washington • FG-1D, 76643/643, VMF-122, Lt LE Anheuser, Pelelieu, 1945

Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

BRL72088

Scale:

1/72

Price:

€7.94

Available from: www.brengun.cz

PRODUCT SPEC

Painting leather clothing and seats is one of the more challenging colour tasks for modellers, but this handy set from Lifecolor should ease the process greatly. It comprises six 22ml bottles of satin acrylic shades that vary from a dark brown to an almost ivory white and covers the majority of hues encountered on leather, and will enable one to replicate any surface, from brand new through to ancient. Leather Paint Set By:

Lifecolor

Item no: CS 30 Scale:

1/35

Price:

£16.99

Available from: www.airbrushes.com

Alley Cat

Item no:

AC72030C

Scale:

1/72

Price:

£2.50

Available from: www.alleycatmodels.co.uk

CARGO CLUTTER

Intended for the British Army version of Airfix’s 1/48 Bedford MWD Light Truck, this stowage set from Red Zebra comprises 21 exquisitely sculpted components cast in resin. There is a very useful mix of equipment, which includes a spare wheel, jerry cans, kit bags, and boxes of personal gear. While there are no instructions, the large wheel/boxes/ bedrolls part is positioned against the tailgate, and the remainder will then fill the cargo area as the modeller desires. Bedford MW Army Stowage By:

Red Zebra Models

Item no:

N/A

Scale:

1/48

Price:

£10

Available from: www.redzebramodels.co.uk

German Crate Markings By:

Matho Models

Item no:

35006

Scale:

1/35

Price:

€6.95

Available from: www.mathomodels.com

HANDY CARTONS Boxes are those everyday items that no-one can seemingly live without, and any military can and does use a plethora of different sizes and shapes. This great set from Plus Model provides 18 resin boxes in nine different styles and all feature elegant recessed and raised detail. The majority of these replicate wooden containers, but there are two examples of cardboard packaging and one large trunk, which can be posed open or closed. Small transport crates By:

Plus Model

Item no:

452

Scale:

1/35

Price:

€14.50

Available from: www.plusmodel.cz

HK Model’s 1/32 Mosquito features fantastic detail, but for those seeking that ‘masterpiece’ touch, this resin and photoetched metal (PE) set from Profimodeller is just the ticket. It comprises three PE frets packed with components and 20 finely cast resin parts; the majority of the latter replace the kit seat cushions and add the rear sections of the instrument panel dials. This is a stunning upgrade to the kit, and the end result will be well worth the additional work required.

PRODUCT SPEC

Item no:

By:

This set of photo-etched metal stencils by Matho Models is a quick and easy way to add labelling to the sides and tops of any boxes. In addition to the names of various types of tank, anti-aircraft and artillery ammunition, there are markings for box weight, and a variety of transit and warning signs to add. Simply place the stencil over the desired location and then airbrush with black or white to produce the label(s).

INSECT INTERIOR

Mosquito Cockpit By:

Profimodeller

Item no:

32243

Scale:

1/32

Price:

€29.95

Available from: www.aber.net.pl

AIRSPEED INDICATOR

Designed for HK Model’s new Mosquito Mk.IV/PR Mk.I/IV, this superb turned-brass pitot tube is intended as a direct replacement for the kit part. Compared to the styrene version, this item features far crisper delineation between the wide and narrow sections and a hollow tip. It will be very simple to modify any 1/32 Mosquito to receive this part, and will add a little extra finesse to a model.

PRODUCT SPEC

Brengun

RAF Air Sea Rescue Pods

WOODEN TEXT

PRODUCT SPEC

By:

PRODUCT SPEC

Jak 11/Let C-11

EASY TANNING

{94}

One of the lesser-known roles conducted by the Defiant and Lysander was Search and Rescue, and Alley Cat has released a set of two resin 1/72 Air Sea Rescue pods. The detail is well rendered, particularly the representation of the deflated life raft. These will attach to the wings or sponsons respectively and represent the in-service version, which featured a blunt end (as opposed to the prototype, which was pointed).

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

RS Model’s Yak-11 Moose is a neat little kit, but lacks detail in several areas. Thankfully Brengun has released a photo-etched metal update set for the type that will address all of these shortfalls. The majority of components are intended for the cockpit, and will transform the comparatively bare interior, particularly the instrument panels. Other parts improve the exterior, and these include a new engine cooling intake, undercarriage covers and fuselage vents.

AIRBORNE LIFE RAFT

PRODUCT SPEC

IMPROVED MOOSE

Mosquito Pitot Tube By:

Profimodeller

Item no:

32241

Scale:

1/32

Price:

€2.95

Available from: www.aber.net.pl

Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

Item no:

N/A

Scale:

1/48

Price:

Can $12.99

Available from: www.belcherbits.com

By:

Eduard

Item no:

36323

Scale:

1/35

Price:

€22.95

Available from: www.eduard.com

Floyd Werner provides another rotary gem here with this conversion, which offers the ‘Platypus’ nose with FLIR turret, as seen on US Army UH-60L/Q and HH-60M Medevac Blackhawks. Trimming and sanding is necessary to neaten the resin components, which are designed to fit Academy's kit, and the appropriate decals are also available from Werner’s Wings. The instructions give notes on structural nuances and other items necessary for the ‘Mike’ variant.

Helicopter fans will be pleased with this handy upgrade from the French after-market specialist, for Revell’s 1/72 Tiger. It provides new exhaust units and forward fuselage panelling to depict an up-to-date Tiger as used in Afghanistan, and the parts are cast crispy in pale resin; the detail on the exhausts is particularly good. Surgery is required but the results allow a much more modern rendition of this cool gunship.

UH-60 Platypus Nose By:

Werner’s Wings

Item no:

35-11

Scale:

1/35

Price:

US $10

Available from: www.wernerswings.com

PRODUCT SPEC

SANDBOX GUNSHIP

PRODUCT SPEC

AUSSIE MAMMAL

Tigre Details By:

L’Arsenal

Item no:

KC 72 03

Scale:

1/72

Price:

€14.95

Available from: www.larsenal.com

By:

Hauler

Item no:

HLU35080

Scale:

1/35

Price:

€10.99

Available from: www.hauler.cz

WHISPERING DEATH DETAILS With its mix of plain and pre-painted (these are selfadhesive) photoetched brass, this extensive set will give a wealth of fine detail to a great base kit from Airfix. Provided here is full embellishment for cockpit, with instrument panels, throttles, dials, seatbelts, rudder pedal strap and even a length of machine gun ammo. The plain brass fret has much to offer, and includes items such as firing cables for underwing rockets, trim for the main undercarriage bay doors, wing light details, features for a torpedo among other features. Beaufighter Mk.X SA By:

Eduard

Item no: 73526 Scale:

1/72

Price:

€18.95

Available from: www.eduard.com

This set is for the more experienced modeller, and even then it will take some patience and the right tools. It will, however, add a really professional look to Airfix’s gorgeous new Beaufighter Mk.X, by representing decent-looking lowered flap units. At around 40 parts it’s a small project in its own right, which demands minor modification of the kit parts.

PRODUCT SPEC

Belcher Bits

Wooden Barrels and Milk Cans

SLOW-SPEED HANDLING

Beaufighter Mk.X landing flaps By:

Eduard

Item no:

72603

Scale:

1/72

Price:

€17.25

Available from: www.eduard.com

WASP POWER

Incredibly useful for adding refinement to a number of subjects is this lovely little 14-cylinder engine, cast in resin. Very fine detail is evident all over the unit, but one may have to scratch-build engine bearers depending on the chosen donor kit. This powerplant is suitable for the following 1930s aircraft: SBC3, SB2U-1/2/3 and export variants, A-17 series, F2F-1, F3F-1, Bristol Bolingbroke (two required), BT-1, and Boeing 247A airliner (two required).

PRODUCT SPEC

By:

T-34/76

Perfect for dioramas, especially those emulating farm scenes (with or without military interaction), are these resin items from Hauler. A pleasing wood grain adorns the wooden slats on the barrels, and photo-etched brass handles are provided for both styles of milk can, for extra refinement.

PRODUCT SPEC

Beech C-45 conversion set

Photo-etched metal is a good medium for introducing a touch of class, and it’s certainly the case here with Eduard’s busy set for Zvezda’s recent T-34/76. Items include new mudguards, stowage boxes and straps, hull screens, spare track link holders and other items. There are more than 80 individual parts but due to the larger size of some, the use of a dedicated PE bending tool is recommended.

FARM PRODUCE

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

Belcher has released this conversion to go hand-in-hand with its new decals for the Beech (reviewed on p.92). It provides longer engine nacelles, inboard wing leading edges with increased chord and an astrodome...these all being features of post-war Beech 18s. The first two items are in grey resin, while the astrodome is vac-formed, but all are designed to fit ICM’s C-45F. Some surgery will be necessary, but this simple set gives modellers much more scope with colour schemes.

SOVIET HEAVYWEIGHT

PRODUCT SPEC

LIGHT TWIN MODS

R-1535-B Series Twin Wasp By:

Starfighter Decals

Item no:

7216

Scale:

1/72

Price:

US $5

Available from: www.starfighter-decals.com

Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

Item no:

72 L-61

Scale:

1/72

Price:

€10.47

Available from: www.aber.net

INSTANT TERRAIN

Focke-Wulf Fw 190F-8 By: Item no:

HGW Models 132570

Scale:

1/32

Price:

€8.88

Available from: www.hgwmodels.cz

STAFF CAR UPGRADE

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Stony mountain spring By:

AMMO MIG

Item no: A.MIG-8358 Scale:

N/A

Price:

€14.25

Available from: www.migjimenez.com

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

Not everyone has the time to create convincing groundwork. Mig Jimenez has recognised the fact and now offers premade scenic bases. This item, measuring 230mm x 130mm, has plenty of grass tufts, foliage and stones and one can airbrush different tones onto the material. Not all of the scatter is fixed firmly, and so it’s recommended to spray matt varnish here and there to give the vegetation and stones more security. The base can be cut with scissors, though, so sections can be placed into larger scenes. No scale is given, but they look right for 1/35.

Two frets of photo-etched brass and three resin components make up SBS’s neat set for Italeri’s 1/35 Coloniale. This Fiat derivative for military use now benefits from new seats, which display realistic creasing and pinching, while the PE offers items such as floor pans, a new windscreen (acetate provided for glazing), an instrument panel and surround, and inner panelling for the doors. 508 CM Coloniale By:

SBS Model

Item no:

35020

Scale:

1/35

Price:

€16

Available from: www.sbsmodel.com

RAF bomber re-supply set By:

Brengun

Item no:

BRL72091

Scale:

1/72

Price:

€10.25

Available from: www.brengun.cz

WHIP UP A STORM Airfix’s new 1/48 Hurricane Mk.I is a corker, but any styrene product can stand extra detail and the refinement offered by photo-etched metal. Eduard’s new set provides a wealth of features, from a prepainted instrument panel, a new seat with belts and other cockpit items, to exterior gems such as rudder control linkages, canopy handles, separate wing panels and a radiator flap. Hurricane Mk.I By:

Eduard

Item no:

49726

Scale:

1/48

Price:

€22.45

Available from: www.eduard.com

This relatively new company offers very clever and well-executed items for military modellers, using real material to convincing effect. This excellent camouflage barrel wrap, which consists of cam-net and scrim, is a beautifully made product, looks the business and will be ideal for 1/35 Commonwealth armour such as the Sherman Firefly and Achilles. Also available in winter shades!

PRODUCT SPEC

Aber

MATERIAL MAGIC

Camouflage barrel Wrap (17 Pdr) By:

Thachweave Products

Item no:

TWN05

Scale:

1/35

Price:

Can $15

Available from: thachweave.tripod.com

TRANSPORT IMPROVEMENT

Add more life to Roden's C-123 Provider by using these separate elevators and rudders from Plus Model. The parts are cast in grey resin and exhibit good detail in general, and fine trim-tab fairings. A photo-etched brass fret supplies blanking plates for the vertical and horizontal stabilisers...necessary, because one needs to perform surgery on the one-piece kit tails.

PRODUCT SPEC

By:

Got a Bomber Command diorama planned? Then look no further than Brengun’s superb new set, designed to embellish Airfix’s bomber re-supply set. All in photo-etched brass, the parts will add an extra dimension to the fuel bowser (doors, access platforms and handles), The Bedford truck (doors, footplates, wing mirrors, cargo box sides and engine cover side panels). There are new doors, windscreen wipers and a steering wheel for the Tilly, and even spokes for the bicycle wheels!

PRODUCT SPEC

Zwilling Flakpanzer 5.5cm Rheinmetal Gerat 58 barrels

HGW’s lasercut fabric belts will add a real air of authenticity to Revell’s new Fw 190F-8. The printing of these items is most pleasing as the integral worn look is convincing, and the 19 supplied photoetched metal accoutrements will also make any seat look superb. Patience will be needed to thread the belts through the buckles, but the work will be worth the effort...and these items could be used on other ‘190 kits.

‘HEAVY’ DETAILING

PRODUCT SPEC

PRODUCT SPEC

Stunning accessories such as these turned-brass barrels mean even modellers of 1/72 scale military subjects can add better detail. These lovely items, with conical flash suppressors, are designed to fit Dragon’s Zwilling Flakpanzer (7488), or the ‘Coelian’ boxing (7236). All one has to do is to drill two 1.5mm holes in the mantlet and bingo!...two very refined antiaircraft barrels.

LUFTWAFFE CLUNK-CLICK

PRODUCT SPEC

ANTI-AIRCRAFT BRASS

Tail surfaces for C-123 Provider By:

Plus Model

Item no:

AL7012

Scale:

1/72

Price:

€9.10

Available from: www.plusmodel.cz

Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

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MODEL MART

CLASSIFIEDS

Tel: 01530 231407 www.aviationbookcentre.com Unmade or already built, any quantity, especially large collections, Will collect nationwide and pay best cash price.

Please call 01202-976974. or 07901-890461. Thank you.

Email: [email protected]

Freightdog Models

Home of Blue Max and Pegasus Models Online shop for kits, decals ands accessories www.freightdogmodels.co.uk +44 (0) 1342 716004 Fairlight, Sandy Lane, Crawley Down, Crawley, RH10 4HX

Fast and friendly service Easy to navigate webshop Large range of over 3500 models, figures, tools and accessories from Revell, Airfix, Italeri, Tamiya and many more, ready for immediate despatch Based in the Midlands since 2001 with worldwide shipping available

Web: www.models2u.co.uk Email: [email protected]

Phone: 01543 433999

To advertise here please call Ben Harrison on 01780 755131 or email [email protected]

FOR ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES CALL BEN HARRISON ON: +44 01780 755131

Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com

{97}

THE PLASTIC SURGERY ASK THE EXPERTS

Sponsored by

Airfix Model World’s team of experts answers your modelling questions

Civilian Glazing

Q

“I recently purchased two 1/144 airliner kits but wondered, what is the best way of dealing with the numerous windows, especially on my Boeing 747?

Do people usually fill them in and use decals, or is it that they blank off behind with painted card and use white glue to make the glazing?” Richard Krcmar, via e-mail

Tri-colour 'Spook'

Q

“Having recently purchased Eduard’s Good Evening Da Nang F-4C Phantom kit, I thought I’d ask your advice on the Southeast Asia camo scheme...any tips or cheats to get great results? Tony Kidd, via e-mail AMW ‘s Eric Larson replies: “Assuming you will be using an airbrush, for painting complex soft-edged camouflage such as the South East Asia scheme I recommend masking with Blu-Tack ‘worms’ and a combination of Tamiya and low-tack painter’s tape. Apply the lightest colour first and allow it to dry thoroughly, and then use thin rolls or worms of Blu-Tack to outline patterns for each subsequent colour. Producing thin rolls of consistent diameter by hand can be challenging, but by rolling the putty back

and forth between a scrap of acrylic sheet and a smooth surface such as glass or ceramic tile, perfect worms are formed easily. Once the pattern is laid out with the worms, fill in the remaining area to be protected with tape. To achieve a tight, soft edge to the colour separation, keep the air pressure in the 15-18psi (1-1.2 bar) range and aim your airbrush straight down or

AMW’s Mike Grant replies: “Many modellers choose to simply leave the windows as holes...quite acceptable visually in 1/144 scale and smaller. Another method is to use Micro Kristal Kleer, a thick white liquid of similar consistency to PVA glue. A drop of MKK is inserted into each aperture with a cocktail stick, and capillary action ‘stretches’ the liquid to fill the frame. The product dries transparent, leaving a clear pane; the downside is that it shrinks somewhat, leaving a slight indentation, and so the glazed windows aren’t completely flush with the fuselage. However the overall effect is convincing. Perhaps the most popular

angled slightly into the area to be painted. Avoid aiming under the worm as a hard edge can result. Practice on an old model before attempting this on your Phantom. It is time consuming, but once this technique is mastered you may find it becomes your favourite method for completing multicolour schemes. Once the paint is applied and dried, two varnish coats should follow, and then an oil or acrylic panel line wash to add definition... and a little grime.”

(M Zimer via Warren E Thompson)

method is to use decals, as many kit and after-market sheets include rows of printed glazing. Of course, if the model’s windows are already represented by tiny holes, they must first be filled. This can be achieved by gluing a strip of styrene behind them inside the fuselage halves, smothering the windows from the outside with a suitable filler, and sanding smooth. Equally effective is to slice off the plastic between each window to leave a long, rectangular hole in the fuselage. Next, a strip of thick styrene of roughly the same dimensions is glued inside the aperture, standing slightly proud of the fuselage, then sanded flush with the curvature of the aircraft body. Some filling will be necessary around the edges of the styrene insert, but this is  usually less labour-intensive than filling every individual window aperture.”

Contact us Do you have a modelling conundrum regarding techniques or references? If so, why not quiz our band of contributors, history writers and industry contacts? Simply send your query via e-mail (with The Plastic Surgery in the subject line), to: [email protected], or a typed letter by post to: The Plastic Surgery, Airfix Model World, Key Publishing Ltd, PO Box 100, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1XQ, United Kingdom. Please provide your postal address. Each question printed will receive a selection of Ultimate Modelling’s sanding sticks worth approximately £15. For further details on Ultimate Modelling products, please visit www.umpretail.com

THE NEXT ISSUE IS ON SALE: OCTOBER 1, 2015* *UK scheduled on sale date. Please note that overseas deliveries are likely to occur after this date.

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