Airfix Model World Issue 085 (December 2017)

EXCLUSIVE

LA VA-VA-VROOM! Adding extra detail to Tamiya’s 1/24 LaFerrari

SEA FURY FB.11 Dec 2017 Issue 85

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PRODUCT REVIEWS

NAVAL

First look at Airfix’s all-new 1/48 Sea Fury FB.11

RISING SUN EAGLE We build the 1/72 F-15J from Platz

£4.50

AFRICAN CRUISER

Revamping Airfix’s 1/35 Crusader Mk.III

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EDITOR'S DESK WELCOME

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

WELCOME TO ISSUE 85

Y

ou may wonder where I’m going with this month’s editorial…but stay with me! I sometimes watch talks on www.ted.com, TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) being a non-profit organisation devoted

Editor: Chris Clifford Assistant Editor: Stu Fone Editor's Secretary: Melissa Smith Contributors this issue: Jose Pires, John Bonanni, Malcolm V Lowe, Andy Davies, Ian Hartup, Ian Grainger, Jennifer Wright, James Maher, Wayne Dippold, Jun Shidara Designer: Tom Bagley Chief Designer: Steve Donovan Group Editor: Nigel Price Production Manager: Janet Watkins Commercial Director: Ann Saundry Group Advertising Manager: Brodie Baxter Advertising Manager: Sarah Jarman Advertising Sales Executive: Elizabeth Ridge Classified Sales Executive: Hollie Keeling 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

to the spreading of ideas. The last lecture I watched was by Eduardo Briceño, who discussed how we can get better at the things we really care about. His view, supported by research, was that we spend time in two zones, Learning and Performance, and the fact that we spend too much time in the latter, doing, rather than exploring the former enough and actually practising the pursuits we enjoy. My mind turned instantly to modelling and you know what? He’s right! How many of us simply stick to the same methods and materials just because they satisfy a particular demand, or we think they are ‘good enough’. I know from managing AMW’s contributors that some, echoing modellers in general, tend to

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

favour certain paint brands and are shy of trialling new or different examples. Arguably, this approach stifles creativity and inhibits performance. I like to think that many readers who buy AMW will, after enjoying a certain article, attempt techniques new to them; but I wager there is a large proportion that doesn’t, for fear of failure. I suppose my plea is that we should all take time simply to practice and trial new methods and mediums, instead of racing, hell-bent, to finish a build in the fashion we know best. A kit that’s been sitting on the ‘shelf of shame’ for months could become a suitable test bed for all manner of new work…from re-scribing to experimenting with pressure settings while airbrushing. I

myself avoided anything more than basic scratch-building for many years, just through a lack of confidence. However, having made a conscious effort to be more adventurous and really explore the possibilities with plastic card, lead wire and the like, the results improved tenfold and were truly satisfying. Two adages spring to mind here; we’re never too old to learn, and practice makes perfect!

distributed in the USA by UKP Worldwide, 3390 Rand Road, South Plainfield, NJ 07080. Periodicals postage paid at Rahway, NJ and at additional mailing offices. Readers in the USA can place subscriptions by visiting www.airfixmodelworld.com or by calling toll free 800-428-3003 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 3390 Rand Road, South Plainfield NJ 07080.

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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.

Chris Clifford, Editor [email protected]

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.

To find a stockist near you, visit airfixmodelworld.com

The average sale for the period Jan – Dec 2016 was 12,730 print and digital copies monthly.

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CONTENTS WHAT'S INSIDE?

A subscription to

makes a great gift this Christmas. See pages 76-77.

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

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

76 Give the gift that lasts all year!

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A subscription to AMW makes a great gift this Christmas.

78 On the Shelf Fourteen pages of reviews highlight the latest modelling and reference products from around the world.

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

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CONTENTS WHAT'S INSIDE?

48

FEATURES 14 Intermediate Build – Schnell Fünf 22

José Pires tackles ICM’s impressive 1/48 Ju 88A-5, building a Blitz veteran enhanced with aftermarket products.

22 Out and About – Cliff-Top Triumph Editor Chris Clifford found much to like at the inaugural Euro Miniature Expo Show, held in Folkstone this September.

26 Intermediate Build – African Cruiser Airfix’s vintage 1/32 Crusader Mk.III gets a makeover with scratch-built extras, courtesy of John Bonanni.

34 Out and About – Revamped and Relocated E-Day is no longer in the underground car park! Malcom V Lowe discovers its new location in Prague.

36 Your Airfix Readers show us their Airfix builds old and new.

38 Intermediate Build – Green Speed, Red Power Ian Hartup adds aftermarket detail to Tamiya’s 1/24 LaFerrari, before finishing it in a decidedly non-standard paint shade.

46 Out and About – Racing Legends Car modelling inspiration was in abundance at the 2017 Goodwood Festival of Speed, as described by Ian Grainger.

48 Exclusive Build – Dutch Courage Jen Wright builds Airfix’s newly tooled 1/48 Sea Fury, adding a dash of extra colour with aftermarket Netherlands markings.

56 In Focus – Radial Masterpiece The history of Hawker’s Sea Fury, including its service during the Korean War, is detailed by Malcolm V Lowe.

60 Out and About – Last Hurrah James P Maher laments the loss of the Midland Expo event, held for the final time at the Leasowes Leisure Centre.

62 Intermediate Build – Rising Sun Eagle Wayne Dippold compares Platz’s newly tooled F-15J with the classic Hasegawa kit, to determine which rules the roost…or should that be the eyrie?

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70 In Focus – Eastern Birds of Prey Jun Shidara provides an overview of the Boeing (née McDonnell Douglas) F-15 Eagle in Japanese service

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NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES

BREAKING

NEWS

NEW 2018 TOOLING!

INTERNET-SAVVY modellers who follow Airfix’s Workshop Blog will have seen the announcement of an all-new 1/48 Bristol Blenheim for next year. The Mk.If release will be the first twin-engined World War Two type to be moulded by Airfix with the very latest design and

manufacturing methods. Note this is not simply an upscaled version of the firm’s 1/72 kit; it’s of a completely fresh design, which benefits not just from assistance offered by Duxford’s Aircraft Restoration Company, but also the Aviation Museum of Central Finland, which holds a wealth of original Blenheim factory drawings (Finland was the first export customer for the Blenheim). Airfix Model World has seen various development images and CAD drawings, and the detail is sublime. Expect a full test-shot build close to the release date next year. For more information visit: www.airfix.com

DESTROYER PACKAGE

EDUARD HAS released another iteration of its 1/48 Bf 110 tooling, via this F-model in profiPACK format, with five colour schemes. This firm’s quarter-scale ‘110s are sublime, and this effort is just as good; the box is crammed, although fuselage halves, one set of night fighter antennas and other items will be consigned to the spares box. Zerstorer (destroyer) and night fighter fits are provided, and profiPACK status ensures plain brass

and pre-coloured PE details, tape masks for painting time and even a sweet little scale resin dog…handy for a diorama. ETC racks and bombs are supplied for the Zerstorers, and the colour schemes are superb, with splinter and mottle being prevalent, along with large expanses of RLM 76 blue on two of the nocturnal options. Even the famed ‘Wespen Geschwader’ is represented, via large wasp nose art. For further details visit: www.eduard.com

MAPLE LEAF DAZZLER

ANCIENT DELIGHTS

THE DAYS of modelling and wargaming being regarded as separate disciplines are long gone, such is the cross-over between the two, and this is exemplified by Victrix’s latest figure set. Its Macedonian Greek Successor Heavy Cavalry (VXA027) is in the popular 28mm tabletop scale (approximately 1/58), but the complexity of design and intricacy of detail is akin to that found on much larger figures. Don’t be fooled by the label, which states there are 12 figures – when assembled there are just three (each comprising horse and rider), but there are four options: Macedonian Companion, Thessalian Noble, Greek Heavy

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and Successor Cavalry. These have their own idiosyncrasies, be it the wearing of cloaks, use of spears and javelins or shields, and different styles of headgear. All are included on the two crisply moulded styrene runners, and there is a helpful guide on the packaging card as to which arms, heads etc go with which arm of cavalry. Those seeking further refinement may wish to consider the separate decal sheets, for a variety of Successor shield unit designs. For more on this or other wargaming sets, visit: www.victrixlimited.com

CANADA HAS applied colourful special schemes to some of its CF-188 Hornets, but this year’s display jet is arguably the most eye-popping. Quick to stay topical, Kinetic has re-boxed it’s splendid 1/48 Legacy Hornet to represent the same aircraft, 188734 of the Royal Canadian Air Force Demo Team. The aircraft sports vivid red upper surfaces, decorated with stylised maple leaves and the official logo to denote the 150th anniversary of Canada’s Confederation. Kinetic has put much thought into the decals for this complex

livery, offering not just waterslide markings, but also the option to use the templates provided in painting the white portion of the aircraft. Decal quality and printing is superb. Styrene-wise, there is much to love about this kit (see Chris Jones’ build of the first boxing in our August 2017 issue), although note that the copious weaponry given previously does not appear in this latest package, due to the jet’s ‘clean’ display format. The photoetched brass detail parts remain, however. For further details, visit: www.kineticmodel.com

AIR-DEFENCE TONKA GERMANY’S REVELL will please many a Panavia Tornado enthusiast with its new 1/48 F.3 ADV. Essentially a re-working of ithe firm's same-scale IDS/ GR.4, kit 03925 supplies the obvious differences, such as the re-shaped nose and underside panel with recesses for Skyflash missiles. All the other choice features from the ground-attack variant are here…fine panel lines, separate flaps and leadingedge slats, engine trunking, pleasing cockpit and exhaust detail, and swinging wings. Two RAF colour schemes are provided, those being for ZE809, the 23 Squadron 75th anniversary jet from 1990, and 111 Squadron’s black-tailed 85th anniversary machine, ZE159, from 2002. Minor errors/omissions have occurred, and while this often happens with releases from

FUN STEALTH JAPAN'S F-Toys collaborates with kit maker Platz, and its High-Spec series blurs the lines between toy and model. Its F-35A Lightning II (FC-65) is a gem, and ideal for beginners despite its small scale (1/144). A snap-together offering, there are 35 pre-painted parts and these include a choice of open/ closed bomb bay and raised/ lowered undercarriage. For the former, there are JDAMs and AMRAAMs, and the detail is such that there’s even an ejection seat and separate pilot. Platz and F-Toys products are available in the UK via: www.tigerhobbies.co.uk

other manufacturers too, it could be prevented with better research. While two sizes of fuel tank, Skyflash missiles and a BOZ countermeasures pod are included, the AIM-9 Sidewinders have no rollerons and the front fins are incorrect – yet Revell gets the latter right on its box art. Besides this, AN/ALE-40 chaff/flare dispensers are moulded in situ on the underside, but as these were not fitted until the First Gulf

War in 1991, they will have to be hacked off the underside if building the 23 Squadron airframe. No BOL rails, AMRAAM or ASRAAM missiles feature here, for later-service builds, so we can only hope these may appear in a future boxing…perhaps also with Italian and Saudi markings options? That said, we should be thankful for a reasonably priced F.3 that’s accurate in outline. Visit: www.revell.de/en for more details.

‘BRUSH BUY-OUT

GERMAN AIRBRUSH firm Harder & Steenbeck has been bought by Japanese competitor Iwata. Since 1996, H&S boss Jens Matthiessen built a small company into a world leader in airbrush technology, but with a desire to move into the next stage of his life, Mr Matthiessen has found a partner which, in his words, truly understands the philosophy of excellence, and serves the creativity of the customer…hence the sale to Iwata. Both firms have recently celebrated 90th anniversaries, and each has a deep respect and understanding of the other’s heritage. Mr Matthiessen said: “I am confident I have made

the right decision in choosing ANEST IWATA to continue my life’s work - my passion - while remaining true to the Harder & Steenbeck way. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you who've contributed significantly on this remarkable journey, and wish you continued success in this new and exciting phase with Harder & Steenbeck.” Iwata and H&S maintains nothing will change for customers of either brand; H&S airbrushes will continue to be manufactured at the headquarters in Norderstedt, Germany, and the firm will still develop its products to the same high-quality standards. Visit: www.harder-airbrush. eu/en

NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES

{in brief}

MOULDING MAGIC

WARGAMING WONDER Early War Miniatures has a well-earned reputation for quality across its expanding range of 20mm (1/76) wargaming products, and its Daimler Dingo is no exception. Comprising just a single resin component, this four-wheeled armoured car (BARM1c) requires just painting before it is ready for display or wargaming, with the option of a two-man crew and light machine gun, all cast as white metal items. Considering the vehicle is an all-in-one construct, the cast detail is amazing, with extra stowage (satchels, ammunition boxes and jerrycans), neat hatch detail (all in the closed position) and even a spare wheel. See www.earlywarminiatures.com for more information.

VIPERS OF THE LAST FRONTIER A handsome scheme for the Lockheed Martin F-16C is the subject of Two Bobs’ new release. Sheet 72-105, F-16C Alaskan Splinters, offers two options for Eielson-based ‘Vipers’ in three-tone low-visibility grey, with AK tailcodes. It’s a cool and current adversary splinter pattern worn by the 18th Aggressor Squadron, 354th Wing, and Two Bobs also supplies full stencilling to go with the unit markings and national insignia. Even decoration for the air intake plugs is provided and, thankfully, the schemes are also available in 1/48 (48-259) and 1/32 (32-068) scales. Visit www.twobobs.net for further information.

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BRITISH COMPANY Form-U-Lay has been providing modellers with vac-form bases, kits and moulds for almost 20 years, and is still going strong. Its vac-formed moulds incorporate subjects in

scales from 1/72 to 120mm (approximately 1/13), providing the means of creating roadways and buildings. While appearing similar to basic vac-form products, these are in fact intended to be filled with Plaster of Paris or a similar medium. At first glance, the brick and cobblestone definition may

LUPINE QUARTET AS MODELLERS may be aware, the Wolf Miniatures resin figure range is being re-released gradually by its new owners, Sovereign 2000. The latest re-issues are all in 1/35 scale, and depict a British tanker in ‘pixie’ suit (S2KW075), French tanker (S2KW072), Panzerfaust-toting German WereWolf militiaman (S2KW074) and a German seaman on leave (S2KW073). Both tankers and the sailor comprise just a figure, albeit with a differing number of components (anything from

single-piece to having separate arms and head), while the trenchcoat-wearing WereWolf recruit comes with a neat twopart base. The poses are lifelike, and the facial expressions are superb, from the cigarettesmoking British tanker, to the impatient Frenchman and German sailor (depicted checking his watch). Equally impressive is the amount of detail, and the sculptor is to be commended for how clothing creases have been replicated. More news and product information is at: www.sovereign2000. uk.com

appear slightly soft in places, but nothing that can’t be remedied with a swipe of a scribing tool. Its 1/72 Cobbled and Tarmac Main Road (FL93, shown here sprayed for with paint for clarity) features tramlines, a side street, pavements and ruined building, and at the opposite end of the scale, there is a 120mm base and building mould for a figure vignette. Most products are in 1/35 scale, and include three bases that can be linked (FL01, 02 and 03) and offer extra features such as doors and frames; any of these could then be combined with the Bank/Building frontage (FL54). A smaller dual set (FL53 and 54) offers multiple options for base, vignette and buildings to fashion dioramas large or small. More details are at www.form-ulay.co.uk

SCI-FI NOSTALGIA

MASTERPIECE MODELS’ Chase Craft from 1970s British sci-fi series Blake's 7 is sure to create a stir. This four-season show chronicled the adventures of rebel fighters, led initially by Roj Blake, against the ruthless Federation, in an alien spaceship named Liberator. At one point, the makers of the vessel, known as the System, pursue and capture it and the crew with these single-hulled chase craft. Masterpiece’s resin offering (MMBL001) comprises 21 parts, several spares and lengths of styrene rod. While the engine parts in AMW’s sample were white resin, they are also available in clear red, to replicate the powerplant’s distinctive look and allow illumination. Decals for the engine collar ‘grille’ completes the package, enabling modellers to possess a classic Terry Nationdesigned spacecraft. Visit: www. masterpiecemodels.com

NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES

KOLA INTERCEPTORS

US-based Linden Hill Imports has released a superb decal update for 1/48 Flankers. Named ‘Arctic Flankers - Su-27 Guardians of the North ‘, set LHD48040 is a new version of a 2004 product, but certain decals have been re-worked/re-sized with the much more modern Hobby Boss kit in mind. A total of 16 liveries are provided (across three individual carrier sheets), and all represent Flankers (Su-27P and -UB) operated by Russia’s 941st Fighter Air Regiment, at Kilpyavr Air Base, on the Kola Peninsula. The unit’s aircraft became known for their adventurous artwork, and Linden Hill has managed to

befriend the actual artists, in a bid for true accuracy. The art involves polar bears, walruses, an owl, black panther and wolf, along with Guards badges and mission tallies. All the necessary Bort numbers are given, and the information provided on colour schemes and structural nuances is impressive…a trait for which this maker has become rightly renowned. Also released is sheet LHD48011M Su-27 Flanker airframe stencil data (Russian), which supplies authentic stencils based on technical manuals and close-up photos. Multiple variations of Soviet/Russian stars feature, as well as extra items for two-seat variants. For further details visit: www.lindenhillimports.com

REAL SPACE modellers will welcome the re-issue of Hasegawa’s 1/200 Space Shuttle. The contents of kit 10821 remain unchanged from this tooling’s last outing in 2010, save for the addition of three resin astronaut figures, one equipped with a Manned Manoeuvring Unit for Extra Vehicular Activity (the other two wear the basic backpack life support unit). This is a fun package, which enables the modeller to pose the Shuttle Orbiter connected to the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), and to have an astronaut attached to the Canadarm.

Note, though, that while one receives decals for Discovery, Endeavour and Atlantis Orbiters, technically just the latter should be depicted for accuracy’s sake, because the format of the HST (with smaller replacement solar arrays) ties it to Atlantis mission STS-125, launched on May 11, 2009. Columbia’s mission STS109 (March 1, 2002) could also be replicated via aftermarket decals for the ship’s name. Pleasingly, the HST can also be displayed separately on its own base. The kit is available in the UK via importer Amerang: www. amerang.co.uk

WELLINGTON’S BIG BROTHER

ROTARY TONES

THOSE INTERESTED in British Army Air Corps subjects will appreciate Polish company Hataka Hobby’s recent Red Line (airbrush-ready acrylics) addition. The British AAC Helicopters Paint Set (HTK-AS87) provides all necessary colours applied to British Army rotary assets in the past 40 years. It comprises eight 17ml bottles, and includes

NASA CLASSIC RETURNS

tones for Operation Granby (1991 First Gulf War) and Cold War, bringing everything bang up to date with schemes for the Apache AH.1 and Lynx Wildcat. A helpful guide on the packing’s rear provides a resumé of British Army helicopter paint schemes from the 1970s to present day. Further details are available at: www.hataka-hobby.com

NO SOONER had modellers readied themselves for a 1/72 Wellington, than AlleyCat Models announces an all-resin Vickers Warwick in the same scale. Three boxings are planned; there are Airborne Search and Rescue variants, which include two styles of under fuselage lifeboat and offer standard three-tone camouflage and post war overall silver. The GR.II/V supplies markings for RAF, Royal Canadian AF and South African AF airframes (all in white with Medium Sea Grey uppersides), while the transport C.I/III provides South East Asia Command and civilian (BOAC) colour schemes, and the sub-type’s characteristic pannier-style cargo bay. The detail incorporated is superb, notably on the powerplants, and there will be Bristol Centaurus and Pratt and Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp (with Hamilton Standard props)-powered options. Perhaps the standout feature has to be the wings, with the geodetic structure replicated accurately; notably the fine diamond ‘waffle’ pattern, while the main fuselage

has fluting, replicating the doped fabric over wooden batons, although it appears slightly heavy in places. There are three cut-outs on each fuselage side for windows/blanks, and these will vary depending upon which version is built. For the armed ASR versions, there are three well-appointed turrets, with clear resin glazing, twin- and quadmachine gun mounts (the latter for the rear unit), while blanks serve for those spaces on the unarmed transport. More news on this and other releases is available at: www.alleycatmodels.co.uk

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SHOW SCENE DIARY DATES

SHOW SCENE

E MODEL DISPLAY

) MODEL COMPETITION J TRADE STANDS

At-a-glance model show calendar

 REFRESHMENTS

m AIRCRAFT DISPLAY  MILITARY DISPLAY  AUTOMOTIVE DISPLAY

FREE PARKING MAKE AND PAINT

Aircraft Enthusiast Fair & Model Show Date:

November 19

Hosts:

Museum of Army Flying

Address: Museum of Army Flying, Middle Wallop, Stockbridge, Hants, SO20 8DY

November

December

25 Plastic Winter Bratislava 2017 Hosts: KPM Bratislava Address: Dom Kultúry Ružinov, Ružinovská 28, Bratislava, Slovakia Times: 8am-4pm Prices: Free E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.kpmbratislava.sk

2 IPMS Korea 6th Exhibition Hosts: IPMS KOREA Address: Yeongdeungpo Art Hall, 596 Gukhoe Daero, YeongDeungpogu, Seoul, Republic of Korea Times: 10am-6pm Prices: Free E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ipmskorea.co.kr

9-10 The Model Show Hosts: The Friends of the Model Show Address: Poynton Leisure Centre, Yew Tree Lane, Poynton, Cheshire, SK12 1PU Times: Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4.30pm Prices: Adults £6, Military concession £5, under-16s free E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.themodelshow.co.uk

January 25 Euro Scale Modelling 2017 Hosts: IPMS Netherlands Address: Expo Houten, Meidoornkade 24, 3992 AE Houten, The Netherlands Times: 10am-5pm Prices: €7, IPMS members and under-12s free E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ipms.nl

2-3 Hosts:

V Beja Model Show 2017 Amigos Modelistas do Baixo Alentejo and Scale Model Club of Mário Beirão Basic School Address: School Mário Beirão de Beja, Beja, Portugal Times: Sat 11am-8pm, Sun 10am-4pm Prices: Free E-mail: [email protected] Web: ModelShowBeja (Facebook)

26 Bugle Call 2017 Hosts: Bristol BMSS Address: Nailsea School, The Link, Mizzymead Rd, Nailsea, North Somerset, BS48 2HN Times: 10am-4.30pm Prices: Adults £5, OAPs £4, under-12s £2 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.bmssbristol.org

3 Hosts:

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Croydon Airport Aviation & Military Collectors’ Fair Hosts: Aviation Antiques (Dave Sutton) Address: Hallmark Hotel, Purley Way, Croydon Surrey CR9 4LT Times: 10.30am-3.30pm Prices: Adults £4, under-10s free E-mail: [email protected] Web: N/A

10am-3pm

Prices:

Adults £7.50 (includes access to museum)

Email:

mark.roberts15863@gmail. com

Web:

www.armyflying.com

February 3

North Surrey Military Modelling Group Open Day Hosts: North Surrey Military Modelling Group Address: Banstead Community Hall, Park Road, Banstead, Surrey, SM7 3AJ Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Adults £3, children and OAPs £2 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.nsmmg.org.uk

10-11 Tank Museum Model Expo Hosts: The Tank Museum Address: The Tank Museum, Bovington, Dorset BH20 6JG Times: Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-5pm Prices: Adult £13, children £7.50, under-5s free E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.tankmuseum.org

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Christmas Model Fayre 2017 Midland Air Museum/IPMS Coventry and Warwickshire Address: Midland Air Museum, Rowley Road, Coventry, CV3 4FR Times: 10am-3pm Prices: Adults £7, OAP/students £6.50, children £3.50 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.midlandairmuseum.co.uk

Bolton IPMS Scale Model Show 2017 Hosts: Bolton IPMS Address: The Premier Suite, Macron Stadium, De Havilland Way, Bolton BL6 6SF Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Adults £4, OAPs £3, under-16s £2 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ipmsbolton.co.uk

Times:

11 Huddersfield Scale Model Show Hosts: IPMS Wakefield and District Branch Address: Huddersfield Leisure Centre, Spring Grove Street, Huddersfield, HD1 4BP Times: 10.30am-4.30pm Prices: Adults £4, concessions £2 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.huddersfieldscale modelshow.co.uk

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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Airfix Model World

The second volume in Key Publishing’s Combat Machines series explores the legendary B-25 Mitchell light bomber, which also excelled in various other roles. Following the high-quality design and format of last year’s Combat Machines 1: B-17G,Volume 2 offers period photos with informative captions, and extensive history text to tell the Mitchell’s story. The type’s development is studied, ahead of chapters covering many facets of the B-25’s wartime genesis…from the famous Doolittle raid on Japan, and the USAAF unit’s efforts that inspired Joseph Heller’s novel Catch 22, to strafing in the Pacific and US Marine Corps operations, export users and a very personal focus on the Pacific Theatre B-25 ‘Dirty Dora’. This is an all-encompassing view of the Mitchell, across 84 pages, which also provides many colour profiles and extensive model kit, decal, accessory and book listings. It’s the ideal reference to accompany Airfix’s new-tool 1/72 B-25 kit later this year.

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12/10/2017 11:04

INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 88A-5

Schnell Fünf José Pires goes into ‘Blitz’ mode with ICM’s new quarter-scale Ju 88A-5

J

unkers’ Ju 88A-5 was a multi-role warplane that entered service towards the end of the Battle of Britain, participated heavily in the Blitz, and soldiered on with the Luftwaffe for the remainder of World War Two. Curiously, the A-5 was developed before the A-4 model, and featured the A-1’s fuselage combined with extended wings and (eventually) several versions of the famous Jumo 211 powerplant.

 Eduard’s superb Ju 88A-5 Interior (49750) and Exterior (48876) PE sets were the prefect accompaniment to ICM’s kit, offering extra refinement and addressing several minor shortfalls.

Inside the box This modelling experience started with a pleasant surprise, as ICM packed the 256 plastic parts inside a sturdy cardboard box, with a separate artwork-adorned covering sleeve…and ensured the contents were protected perfectly. Similarly, runners for the transparent components were bagged separately, along with the decal sheet, which provided four colour options. Close examination of the contents, combined with referral

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to research documents, revealed several slight shortcomings. Most notable was the inaccurate cockpit floor, which lacked a noticeable raised platform, and while there is an aftermarket replacement available, it was decided to make the most of the kit parts, coupled with Eduard photo-etched (PE) metal and scratch-built extras. Ultimately, and with the canopy attached, this modeller was more than happy with the result. Similarly, several panel lines

INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 88A-5

(49750) aftermarket PE sets, which also addressed several shortfalls, and these were employed where it was deemed necessary or advantageous.

MODEL SPEC

On to the build

Junkers Ju 88A-5 By:

ICM

Stock Code:

48232

Scale:

1/48

Price:

£27.99

Available from: www.icm.com.ua

needed correction, and there were sink marks on the fuselage exterior. Neither of these glitches were deal-breakers, and were corrected quickly and easily. However, a framing error between the rear cockpit guns was left uncorrected; the trade-off between a great final appearance and the risk of ruining a crystalclear part was a no-brainer for this modeller! Extra detail came in the form of Eduard’s superb Ju 88A-5 Exterior (48876) and Interior

Kit and aftermarket instructions were scrutinised and compared before glue was committed to plastic; this was important initially, as it allowed for a concise and workable build sequence. Photoetched metal and copper wire embellishments were added to the cockpit, especially on the rudder pedals, as these were prominent features on the real machines. When the alterations were finished, Vallejo 73.602 Polyurethane Black Primer provided a homogenous surface for subsequent paint layers. AMMO-MIG’s A.MIG-7431 Late Luftwaffe Cockpits set was employed to decorate the ‘office’, beginning with the application of A.MIG-218 RLM 66 Schwartzgrau, followed by a brighter version of this hue on selected panels. Lightening effects were finished after a pale grey dry-brush session, after which details were painted with various Mr. Hobby colours, before the prepainted PE items were secured to the relevant surfaces with Superglue. A pleasant tone was imparted to the interior courtesy of A.MIG-1509 Blue Filter for Grey, which also blended the PE with the rest of the innards. The set also provided a dark panel wash, which enhanced the moulded relief, before all was sealed with matt varnish.

 ICM’s radiator faces were void of grille and mesh detail, but this was replicated by PE additions, although care was needed not to block the apertures when applying Superglue.

 The landing gear legs also received attention from Eduard’s PE accessories, and the overall effect was refined further with small styrene discs, cut with a punch-and-die set, to replicate bolt heads.

 In addition to yet more PE refinements, the ends of the exhaust stacks were drilled, to improve their appearance.

Identity check Fuselage mating Considerable test-fitting was needed to ensure successful mating of the fuselage halves. ICM chose to engineer its Ju 88 such that most cockpit parts were installed on the forward fuselage undertray (Part A-16), which included a stub for the lower

ICM offered four interesting and diverse paint schemes, which ranged from France to the Eastern Front via the Mediterranean theatre. A slightly matt carrier film was present, but the decals performed well with Microscale setting solutions. Notably, the swastikas were absent, so this was sourced from AeroMaster’s 48025 German Insignia Sheet. The liveries were: • L1+AM, 4./LG 1, France, August 1940 • L1+GN, 5./LG 1, Greece, May 1941 • 4D+LN, 5./KG 30, Puri, Finland, Autumn 1941 • F1+AS, 8./KG 76, Russia, December 1

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 88A-5

 After a black primer, the cockpit was airbrushed with varying shades of RLM 66 Schwartzgrau, before Eduard’s pre-painted PE placards, instruments and seat belts were added…these were the icing on the cake in terms of detailing this compartment.

 ICM engineered the cockpit in such a way that most of the parts were installed on the combined lower forward fuselage and wing stub (Part A-16), but despite the impressive detail neglected to include the type’s characteristic raised cockpit platform. The ventral gondola was detailed with scrap styrene and wire. Unfortunately, the inner window masks were forgotten until it was too late to correct…one can only pretend they’re curtains!

wings to ensure correct dihedral. However, this format demanded constant attention when fitting cockpit components onto the relevant fuselage sides, and subsequent checking against the undertray sub-assembly, before the halves could be joined. The resulting seam was treated with filler and sanding sticks, before any surface detail lost during this process was restored with a scriber and pin vicemounted needle. Once satisfied with the results, the cockpit floor unit was inserted from below with great care, and glue was applied when it was positioned correctly. Surprisingly, everything aligned without drama and the result was a neat seam, eradicated easily with a Superglue and talcum powder concoction. Next, the wings and horizontal stabilisers were added to the fuselage, and here the fit was splendid, with the wing roots needing just minor tidying with a smear of Mr. Surfacer 500. This was applied by brush and any excess was removed with a cotton bud dampened in lacquer thinner; the result was perfect joins for the wing and tail control surfaces.

Extra detail The ventral gondola was built and detailed with scrap plastic and wire, then painted in the same manner as the cockpit, but the raised features were

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highlighted strongly, so they would be visible through the crystal-clear glazing. Following the build sequence, it was time to tackle the undercarriage structures and bays. Here, Eduard’s PE accessories were applied in accordance with its instructions and augmented with small nuts (fashioned from plastic card) on the landing gear legs.

All this work was then primed in black and painted Tamiya XF-22 RLM Grey. The inner surfaces of the engine nacelles were also detailed, before they received Vallejo 71.044 Light Grey Green, which added colour variation to these parts. When dry, they were sealed with satin varnish,

INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 88A-5

The completed cockpit with plastic, photo-etched and scratch-built additions certainly looked busy. A slight step between the fuselage halves was neatened with judicious filing.

before moulded relief was picked out with a dark enamel wash. A final matt varnish layer unified the previous work, before these sub-assemblies were added to the roof of the landing gear bays (treated previously with 71.044 Light Grey Green).

Jumo power ICM provided sufficient parts for two complete replica Jumo 211 engines, and these were built as per the instructions, and detailed

with Eduard’s PE, although just one would be displayed on the finished model. Both were treated similarly, receiving a black base layer, with highlights airbrushed dark grey and details picked out with Vallejo acrylics, before everything was dry-brushed with 70.865 Oily Steel. A basic black oil wash finished work on the main engine sub-assemblies. The exhaust stacks were drilled to enhance the scale effect and detailed with PE, before

 The engines and nacelles were both improved with PE, scratch-built additions and sections of hypodermic needles.  ICM’s miniature MG 15s received 71.072 Gun, which highlighted the moulded features neatly, with the handle painted 71.077 Wood.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 88A-5

receiving 71.080 Rust, followed by several black washes to stain these parts, until the desired effect was achieved. When satisfied, these were matt varnished, then light grey pigment rubbed along the flange edges, adding further interest to this area. Next came the biggest challenge of this build, the engine nacelles; these had been identified as one of the kit’s weak spots, due to the need to treat sink marks and remove features associated with the Ju 88A-4 variant. Once complete, holes were drilled as per the A-1 configuration. Assembling the nacelles was equally troublesome, neither could be assembled closed at first, with the starboard unit

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 The wing to fuselage seam was excellent, and needed just a smear of Mr. Surfacer 500, which was neatened with a lacquer thinner-dampened cotton bud.

 Priority was given to the join between upper wing and fuselage. The resulting leading-edge gap between the wing halves was far easier to fill with Superglue, and then sand to shape.

worse than the port. The latter fitted better around the engine and firewall, but there was a pronounced step between the halves, which needed to be filled and sanded until an acceptable surface was achieved on the upper panel. When fitting this structure to the wing, the kit locating pins had to be removed to allow correct placement and

alignment of the engine and undercarriage housing. As the starboard engine was to be enclosed, the nacelle sides were kept uncut and it was difficult to achieve a satisfactory join. The subsequent misalignment obligated this modeller to resort in another

old-school technique. After the nacelle was glued on the wing under surface, the upper panel was skinned with 10-thou (0.25mm) plastic card and Mr. Dissolved Putty. A week was allowed for the glue and putty to cure fully and then,

INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 88A-5

Care was needed when assembling the engine nacelles; sink marks were treated with a Superglue/talc mix and the A-4-style hot air ducts (arrowed) removed. The panel was then drilled to represent the earlier A-1-type duct.

 The engines were painted overall black, and the details picked out with various acrylic paints, before the edges were dry-brushed with 70.865 Oily Steel.

the surfaces were sanded and polished to the desired shape. This extra work was probably caused by clumsiness from yours truly, but also allowed for the honing of a basic construction/ repair technique.

See-through shine The kit clear parts were splendid in clarity and fit. One minor error (noted earlier) concerned the glazing framing between the aft cockpit guns. Here there should be a triangular-shaped panel, and not a single mid-section dividing frame as supplied. As this wasn’t such a major oversight, no remedial work was done. The clear parts were then masked with Tamiya tape, which was burnished against the raised details, before being cut neatly with a fresh scalpel blade. At this stage, the kit’s machine guns were assembled

and painted gunmetal, with the wood sections receiving 71.077 Wood and the spent cartridge reservoir black. These were then attached with white glue, and the clear parts added to the fuselage with Tamiya Extra Thin cement… any resulting seams were tidied with Vallejo plastic putty. The next step was to airbrush the glazing with A.MIG-218 RLM 66, which acted as both the interior colour and primer coat (to check the joins). Amazingly, the machine guns got to the finish line intact.

 The fit of the crystal-clear glazing parts (which were masked prior to being added) was very good. Note the MG 15s in place; amazingly these survived undamaged throughout the build.

 Assembly of the starboard engine nacelle proved problematic. To resolve the fit issues, the top panel was skinned with 10-thou (0.25mm) plastic card and the edges filled with Mr. Dissolved Putty.

Airbrush time Remedial work on seams was performed with a Superglue/talc mix, and after several applications (each sanded and polished in turn), the time for painting had arrived. The model was re-scribed where necessary and washed thoroughly with a soapy solution to remove any residues. When dry, all sub-assemblies received 73.601 Black Primer, before the classic RLM 65/70/71 camouflage scheme was applied (for a Francebased 4./LG 1 airframe, during summer 1940), again with Vallejo acrylics unless stated otherwise. First, the underside was treated with 71.255 RLM 65 Light Blue, which had been diluted in a 60:40 ratio with thinners, and was sprayed at 14.5psi (1 bar) pressure in thin layers, which pleasing enabled tonal variation to be created on the black primer. As each coat was added, a pleasing sense of volume and depth emerged, which was enhanced subsequently with the application of enamel and oil filters. The upper surfaces were decorated as per the hard-edged splinter scheme common on early war Luftwaffe bombers, with RLM 70 and 71 replicated with 71.021

 The glazing frames received A.MIG-218 RLM 66 Schwartzgrau, before highly diluted 71.255 RLM65 was airbrushed onto the undersides in thin uneven layers over the black primer, which created a mottled appearance.

 The port engine was displayed with opened maintenance panels, so the styrene components were removed to make way for Eduard’s PE replacements. Note the corrected hot air exhausts immediately to the rear of the open section. www.airfixmodelworld.com 19

INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 88A-5

 Similarly, the upper surfaces received light coats of 71.015 Olive Grey, before being masked with Tamiya tape in preparation for 71.021 Black Green.

 After allowing several days for the paint to fully dry, the entire model received two layers of Tamiya X-22 Gloss Clear in preparation for decaling and weathering.

Black Green and 71.015 Olive Grey respectively. The dilution and air pressure settings were the same as described before, as well as the care taken to allow the black base layer to show through. Olive Grey was airbrushed first, before thin sections of masking tape defined the camouflage boundaries and Black Green added; after both colours had dried fully, the airframe received a protective coat of X-22 Gloss Clear.

helped to create a hard-edged demarcation, which contrasted with the soft boundary towards the centre of panels. The previous weathering steps were sealed under two layers of satin acrylic varnish in preparation for the subsequent oil dot filter, which replicated airframe grime. Examination of period photos revealed Ju 88s were well maintained, but a degree of dirt and staining was noted. After small dots of Lamp Black, Sap Green, Burnt Umber, Yellow Ochre and Titanium White were applied to the satin surface, they were blended with a flat brush, which was moistened with odourless enamel thinner. Care was taken to respect the shape and

Added character Once the decaling process was finished, the model was washed with soapy water to eliminate any residues of setting solutions, and sprayed with gloss varnish in preparation

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for weathering. This began with panel washes, and A.MIG-1610 Tan Grey and A.MIG-1608 Dark Green Grey were applied on light and dark areas respectively, and left to dry for approximately 30 minutes. Then, a 1cm-wide flat brush, which had been moistened with enamel thinner, blended the excess onto the model surface, which created an interesting patina…this work was then left to dry for a day. Next, a mixture of Com.Art 21041 Old Oil and 20021 Transparent Smoke was airbrushed on the main structural panel lines. Post-it notes applied to selected areas

References In Action 85 Junkers Ju 88 part 1, by Brian Filley (Squadron Signal), ISBN: 978-0-89747-201-2 Top Drawings 6, Junkers Ju 88A all models, by Maciej Noszczak (Kagero), ISBN: 978-83-61220-29-9 Junkers Ju 88 Vol. 1, by Krzysztof Janowicz (Kagero), ISBN: 978-83-89088-57-4 Monographs 57 Junkers Ju 88 Vol.1, by Marek J Murawski and Marek Ryś (Kagero), ISBN: 978-83-64596-11-7 Junkers Ju 88 Volume One: From Schnellbomber to Multi-Mission Warplane, by William A Medcalf (Ian Allen), ISBN: 978-1-90653-742-5

volume of the different surfaces, as well as increasing the density where necessary, such as on panels adjacent to the exhaust structures and natural shadow points on the fuselage. All the small parts to be added later were submitted to the same weathering processes to maintain coherency, before two layers of acrylic matt varnish were applied and the model set aside to dry. The final steps involved attaching the landing gear doors and wheels, aiming rings on the machine guns, pitot tube and aerodynamic brakes. Antenna arrays were fashioned from Uschi van der Rosten fine rigging line, which was attached with Superglue onto previously drilled anchoring points. The insulators were made with blobs of white glue, and these were painted black when dry.

 Panel washes were applied to highlight the engraved features, with A.MIG-1610 Tan Grey employed on the undersides and A.MIG-1608 on upper surfaces. After a brief drying period, the excess was blended with a thinnerdampened flat paint brush, which created a realistic patina.

In the end ICM has received flak regarding this kit and its inconsistencies; although sections of the build were a struggle (probably due to my own errors), the final result was an appealing model that looks like the real thing. While purists will want to address the various shortfalls, and the cockpit will undoubtedly receive attention from aftermarket companies, the Ju 88A-5 is a good value offering, which provides hours of modelling fun.

 Com.Art’s 21041 Old Oil and 20021 Transparent Smoke were mixed and airbrushed on the main structural panel lines; Post-it notes acted as temporary masking, which created sharp delineations along panel edges.

 Exhaust soot and oil trails were also replicated with oil paints…the primary shades used here were Burnt Umber and Lamp Black.

 The oil dot filter technique was employed on the entire model, which had been prepared with a satin varnish. The dots were blended into the surface, with a brush moistened in odourless thinners.

OUT AND ABOUT EURO MINIATURE EXPO

 ‘Cornelius’, by Adrian Bay (54mm)

 ‘The Kingdom is Lost, Battle of Hattin 1187’, by Mike Blank (54mm, Best of Show)

Cliff-Top Triumph Editor Chris Clifford had a blast at the inaugural Euro Miniature Expo

T

he words 'Euro Militaire' are legend among legions of military and figure modellers worldwide. This long-running event, staged in the Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone, Kent, was a true Mecca for visitors, traders and competition entrants alike. But burgeoning pitch fees for the trade, and competition from shows on the continent, signed the event’s death knell last year and it lead to the organiser, MyTime Media, deciding to call it a day. Many visitors ultimately voted

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with their feet and switched their focus to the ever-growing Scale Model Challenge, in the Netherlands. Dismayed at the loss of ‘Euro’, three names in the hobby decided to stage their own version, with a new name, but at the same cliff-top venue. The tenacious trio comprises noted figure painter and former Euro Militaire judge Adrian Hopwood (aided by son Thomas, himself a former Euro Gold Medallist), SK Miniatures proprietor and judge Steve Kirtley and Oakwood Studios boss

 ‘Pawnee Warrior’, by Riccardo Ruberti

OUT AND ABOUT EURO MINIATURE EXPO

 ‘Rain helps keep the Jabos away today’, by Lester Plaskitt (1/35)

Richard Wharton. Richard told AMW: “I had seen the differences from one publishing company to another, as the owners changed hands, and could see the show was not going

too well…so it was no surprise to hear Euro Militaire was finishing. I didn’t want that to happen so I rang friends, traders and anyone who might be interested in holding a replacement show.

 ‘Medieval Knight XIV Century’ by Pepe Gallardo (54mm)

After talking about this at length on the phone, Adrian, Steve and I got together and put a plan into action. After nearly 10 months’ work and a bucketful of money, we did it.”

 ‘Either earn the price or pay the price of bravery’, by Boris Bakker (1/35)

And what an effort. Long-time attendees of Euro Militaire may not have noticed immediate changes, but the difference in atmosphere was palpable. There was a real buzz about

 ‘Albert Cairns VC’, by Rob Henden (100mm bust)

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OUT AND ABOUT EURO MINIATURE EXPO

the new event, and traders were particularly pleased with less mercenary exhibitor fees. Established companies such as Stormtroopers, Scale 75, Pegaso and Hawk Miniatures mixed with newcomers, one of those being Paul Blaber Miniatures. Arguably, the main draw (similarly with the former event) was the competition room, which housed simply jaw-dropping models. Judging at this event was not a duty I envied in any way, as the standard was high across the board. In the end, it was Mike Blank’s stunning vignette, entitled The Kingdom is Lost – Battle of Hattin, 1187, that secured Best in Show. Euro Miniature Expo got a thumbs-up from many, myself included, and a date has already been set for next year’s event: September 22-23.

 ‘Katy Ottersdorf’ by Margot Crombeecke (90mm)

VIEW MORE ONLINE www.airfixmodelworld.com

 ‘National Air Races Cleveland USA’ by Inigo Rodriguez Carballeira (54mm)

 ‘Scrumping in the Peninsular', by Ian Succamore (54mm)  ‘Roman Bireme’, by Inigo Rodriguez Carballeira (54mm)

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD CRUSADER Mk.III

John Bonanni revives Airfix’s classic 1/32 Crusader with scratch-built details, to create a loaded desert warrior

AFRICAN CRUISER W hen the British Tank, Cruiser, Mk.VI (more commonly called the A15 Crusader) debuted in North Africa during Operation Battleaxe in June 1941, it suffered heavy losses to German anti-tank guns. Faced with technical issues, thin armour, and an inadequate main gun, the Mk.I variant struggled in its role as a cruiser tank. After design changes and enhanced training, Crusader Despite the age of Airfix’s Crusader, the turret halves fitted without issue and the exterior details were well defined.

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Mk.IIIs arrived in the desert in May 1942. The most noticeable change was the installation of a 6-pdr (57mm) gun, to help even the odds against German Panzer IIIs and IVs. But with the new weapon came sacrifices; turret space was reduced and the commander doubled as the loader. Engine reliability was improved, though, with the introduction of Nuffield’s Mk.IV Liberty engine. Despite these changes, the imbalance between British and

German armour remained. The M3 Grant and M4 Sherman soon replaced many Crusaders, which were reassigned to flanking manoeuvres. Following the North African campaign, the type was removed from frontline service and converted into gun tractors and anti-aircraft vehicles for use in Europe.

Simplistic start Opening the box felt like a trip back in time…when models were

more basic and meant for all skill levels. Despite its age, though, the detail was crisp and construction appeared straightforward. My aim was to make this model look as though it was built from a more modern kit, and given there’s no dedicated aftermarket for Airfix’s Crusader, scratch-building would be relied on to add extra features. The drive sprockets were moulded solid and the depressions were drilled to improve their appearance. Next, the large road Attention was needed when assembling the main armament, as the mantlet/barrel seam required filling and sanding for a smooth taper. Note the turnedbrass Besa machine gun barrel… admittedly 1/35 scale, but this wasn’t overly apparent.

INTERMEDIATE BUILD CRUSADER Mk.III

Unsurprisingly, several parts had flash, notably the road wheels, but this was easy to remove with a craft knife and sanding sticks.

Airfix supplied the drive wheel sprockets as solid items, whereas the real units had holes in the structure; a few twists with a drill bit resolved this minor issue.

ARMOURED CHOICES Airfix offered two schemes for its Crusader, one with Light Stone No. 61 and Khaki Green No.3 camouflage, the other wearing overall probable Standard Camouflage Colour 4 (known as ‘cup of tea): • T126299, 9th Queen’s Lancers, 2nd Armoured Brigade, 1st Armoured Division, El Alamein, North Africa, 1942 • T123647, 17/21st Lancers, 5th Armoured Division, Bou Arada, Tunisia, January 13, 1943

wheels were assembled with Tamiya Extra Thin Liquid Cement; preparation was minimal, with residual flash removed easily with a sanding stick. The single-piece lower hull was surprisingly refined on the bottom, and needed just the addition of the torsion bars, but several of these required minor adjustment to ensure they aligned properly. Wheels were then fitted, followed by the two-piece vinyl tracks…fortunately the joins were hidden behind the side skirts. After the lower hull components were completed, attention turned to the upper hull. All hatch handles were moulded as solid items and a Micro-Mark chisel (www. micromark.com) made the removal process easy. Next, locating holes were drilled for new grab handles, which were fashioned from 20-thou (0.5mm) diameter copper wire, which was bent to shape and fixed with cyanoacrylate

The lower hull was one large component (an admirable piece of moulding given its age) to which the torsion bar arms attached; care was needed to align these suspension units correctly.

(CA). The styrene light guards were also replaced with plastic rod (much easier than neatening the kit-supplied items). Stowage boxes and the air filter system housing went together without issue, but not all construction was seamless because significant gaps were noted when dry-

fitting the side skirts; these were attached with liquid cement after careful sanding. Other items that needed to be replaced included the stowage rails, which were over-scale and had equipment, including helmets, tarpaulins and satchels, moulded integrally. Strips of styrene and scrap photo-

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD CRUSADER Mk.III

LOADS OF FUN

Period photographs show desert Crusaders littered with myriad equipment, especially tarps. The kit provided examples for the hull stowage rails, but these were hollow and didn’t look natural. After much debate, it was decided to recreate them with modelling putty, the added bonus being these scratch-built items would look more realistic and allowed for easy customising. 1. The items needed to make tarps were talcum powder, a sharp X-Acto blade, a section of wooden dowel (as a roller), and Aves Apoxie Sculpt…a water-based two-part putty, similar to Milliput.

1 2. With water-dampened fingers (to help prevent the putty from sticking), equal parts of compounds A and B were mixed together. Once combined adequately, a glass surface was covered with talcum powder (a cutting mat was substituted for photography purposes). Note, without talcum powder the putty would stick to the glass and be impossible to remove without destroying the rolled sheet. After also applying talcum powder to a wooden roller, the process began.

2

3 4 4. This was then folded into a basic shape before being placed on the model…excess putty was collected for subsequent tarps.

3. Thanks to its malleable nature, the putty began to deform immediately when rolled. After every 4-5 rolls, the putty was rotated and more talcum powder was added if it began sticking to surfaces. The final thickness of tarpaulin was determined by eye and, once appropriate, a square shape was cut.

5. A water-dampened brush was employed to make the tarp conform to the model’s surface for a more ‘natural’ appearance. Small tears were replicated with an X-Acto blade, and tweezers were pressed into the tarp to deform the putty, to represent further creasing.

5

6 6. Once satisfied with the result, the tarps and rolls were set aside to cure fully for several hours and then readied for painting.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD CRUSADER Mk.III

 Airfix’s integrally moulded solid grab handles were removed with a micro-chisel and replaced with lengths of copper wire, bent to shape. To ease assembly, holes for these were pre-drilled, and each item was then attached with CA.  After futile attempts to neaten the kit parts, it was easier to replace the light guards with styrene rod in their entirety.

of the mantlet, but it was realised after checking references that the barrel had a smooth taper, and not an abrupt change in diameter as moulded by Airfix. Tamiya Putty Basic Type covered this join, etched (PE) brass were used to fabricate alternatives, while the auxiliary fuel tank straps were also replaced at this stage, with more strip styrene and a length of wire to represent the fuel line.

Time for the big gun Turret assembly began by mating the upper and lower halves, with just a small seam requiring treatment with Perfect Plastic Putty. This water-based filler was applied with a toothpick and any excess wiped away with a damp finger. A modicum of sanding

and fettling was necessary for a perfect fit when adding small details to the exterior, as might be expected from such a vintage kit, but the main access hatch was more troublesome. Two options were provided, either a single-piece closed or two-part open configuration, but on both the hinges were too thick for the hatch to fit properly. After these were trimmed with a sharp blade, and wire grab handles added, the closed item was fitted. The gun barrel comprised three pieces, of which one formed part

after which it was sanded to the correct profile. The co-axial Besa machine gun was replaced with an aftermarket 1/35 brass barrel from RB Models; unfortunately, a 1/32 option wasn’t available (but to this modeller, the disparity was too small to spot the difference.

Blank slate The first step in the painting process was to prime the

 As custom-made stowage and equipment was going to be added, the moulded supports and straps were replaced with strip styrene and PE. www.airfixmodelworld.com 29

INTERMEDIATE BUILD CRUSADER Mk.III

 The one-piece turret hatch was cut into two halves and sanded to fit properly. At the same time, the moulded grab handle was replaced with a copper wire item. Note the tarpaulin added on top of the rear turret stowage bin.

 Further scratch-built tarps were added to the rear; in a bid for variety, several were folded neatly while others were placed haphazardly, as if thrown onto the vehicle in haste. The straps and pipe for the fuel tank were replaced by strip styrene and spare PE.

suspension, prior to fitting the upper and lower hulls. This allowed all areas to be covered, which would have been difficult if painted afterwards, before the completed hull and turret was also primed; with the latter, a small gap was noted on a seam, and this was duly corrected with filler and sanding.

edged pattern, was airbrushed freehand with an Iwata HP-C, employing XF-61 Dark Green, before several areas were revisited and touched up with the lightened base coat hue. A sealing coat of X-22 Clear was then applied to the entire vehicle, which also served as a protective layer for the decal

As the chosen scheme was for a machine in North Africa, the two-tone camouflage would be replicated with Tamiya’s XF-59 Desert Yellow as the base colour, which was then lightened with XF-57 Buff to represent paintwork bleached by harsh desert sun. The disruptive green, which had a soft-

 Individual pieces of kit stowage were cast in resin so there would be multiple items to add, creating yet more interest on otherwise bland areas of the hull.

 Black primer revealed any construction flaws and, once these were addressed, Tamiya’s XF-59 Desert Yellow (mixed with a few drops of X-22 Clear to give a satin finish) acted as the vehicle’s base tone.

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setting solutions. Decals were added with the aid of Micro Sol and Set products, and small slits (cut with a fresh X-Acto blade) were made in those markings covering areas of raised relief, to enable them to conform better to the uneven surface. A layer of XF-57 Buff mixed with X-22 Clear served both as a filter to blend the two-tone finish and a suitable base for weathering. Next, small vehicle and equipment details were brushpainted, and AMMO-MIG’s A.MIG033 Rubber & Tires served as the perfect off-black base colour for

INTERMEDIATE BUILD CRUSADER Mk.III

 To replicate the harsh effects of the desert sun on the paintwork, XF-57 Buff was mixed with equal amounts of the base colour to lighten the finish.

 The kit painting guide was used as a reference to replicate the two-tone camouflage scheme, with XF-61 Dark Green airbrushed freehand for the disruptive pattern.  A dark brown pin wash accentuated the model’s countless details. Excess wash was removed with a clean brush (moistened in mineral spirit) 30 minutes after application.

MODEL SPEC

multiple items, such as metal tools, road wheel rubber and track pads. At this point the tarps were based-coated in various tan and brown tones, before Winsor & Newton’s Vandyke Brown oil provided a complementary pinwash, following a tried-and-tested Crusader Mk.III By:

Airfix

Stock Code:

A08360

Scale:

1/32

Price:

£24.99

Available from: Airfix stockists

weathering process. After approximately 30 minutes, any excess was removed with a brush dampened in mineral spirits. Deeper nooks and crannies, mainly around hatches and panels, were revisited and these received a further pin wash treatment. Small amounts of A.MIG-033 Rubber & Tires were then applied with a packing sponge to heavily traversed areas of the hull, in a bid to simulate chipped paint. This also presented a good opportunity to try Adam Wilder’s enamel-

specks were removed with mineral spirits.

Desert dust

based NL27 Rust Speckling product, designed for adding small rust specks to the model’s surface. An old brush was loaded and tested extensively on scrap plastic to get the hang of the flicking process, and once applied to the tank hull, any over-scale

The common enemy for all combatants engaged in desert warfare is dust, and no North African-deployed vehicle would be complete without a healthy dose of fine sand and muck. This modeller’s approach to adding dust was a two-step process, which began with A.MIG-3516 Dust, part of its Oilbrusher range. Packaged in a container similar to a makeup bottle, the product www.airfixmodelworld.com 31

INTERMEDIATE BUILD CRUSADER Mk.III

 Chipped paint was created with dark grey acrylic paint on a piece of sponge, and was applied to areas of heavy use, such as around hatches and stowage box lids. Additionally, Wilder’s Brown Rust Speckling Effect was added with an old brush to ensure further interest.

is designed for convenience and a cheap alternative to traditional oil paints. Its contents are less viscous than tube-based equivalents, but application was straightforward and acclimatisation to the product took little effort. Dots were placed all over the model’s surface, before vertical panels were blended with a downwards streaking motion, while horizontal surfaces were stippled. The product was also used for the road wheels and tracks, but this time as a heavy wash, during which the vehicle was placed on its side to prevent the diluted oils collecting at the bottom of the wheels. After approximately 30 minutes, the vehicle was flipped onto its opposite side, and the process repeated. Once the oil paint was dry, the kit and scratch-built stowage was added with CA, prior to application of weathering pigments. Thin strips of Tamiya tape ensured the stowage adhered to the rules of gravity. Once secured firmly, the tarps were highlighted and shaded with Vallejo acrylics; dry-brushing

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was the last step, to replicate extreme highlights. Part two of dust application then ensued, with a mixture of AK Interactive’s AK-042 European Earth and AK-040 Light Dust applied dry to the vehicle surfaces. This was then fixed with a brush loaded with Humbrol’s Enamel Thinner, which was just touched on the model’s surface…capillary action ensured total coverage. Once dry, excess pigment was blended with a dry

 Airfix’s Crusader began to take on a more realistic appearance after a heavy dust layer was created, courtesy of AMMO-MIG’s Dust Oilbrusher product, which was then streaked downwards with a brush moistened in white spirit.

brush in a similar fashion to the oil paint. Among the few steps remaining, the first was to accentuate the turret and hull vision block glass with Tamiya X-19 Smoke. Next, selective edges (mainly around hatches and on corners), were treated with a graphite pencil, to simulate exposed metal. Uschi van der Rosten’s metal polishing powder was then applied with a cotton swab; this was very much

 Multiple thin layers of acrylic paint helped create shadows and blend tones on the tarps; the harsh highlights on the edges were an artistic touch by the author.

REFERENCE Crusader and Covenanter Cruiser Tanks 1939–45, by David Fletcher (Osprey Publishing), ISBN: 978-1855325-12-8

 Humbrol Enamel Thinner fixed the various pigment shades. The solution’s low viscosity allowed capillary action to do all the work.

a finishing touch for the tracks and tools.

Ready for action Despite its age, Airfix’s classic kit built into a credible Crusader Mk III…recreating small extra details made it hold its ground against modern competitors. When placed on a display table at a local competition, it fooled many, who were surprised it was manufactured by Airfix so long ago. I’d certainly have no second thoughts about building another classic military kit from this range. Simple construction allowed for quick assembly and more time dedicated to the very satisfying detailing and painting.

 Exposed metal was emulated with lead pencil on panel and hatch edges… note it was important not to overdo this technique.

 The tracks received heavy coats of pigments, before being burnished with Uschi van der Rosten’s metal polishing powders (available from www.albionhobbies.com)

Love tanks? Then visit The Tank Museum. www.tankmuseum.org

OUT AND ABOUT E-DAY 2017

 The exterior of the new venue for this year’s E-Day, the Top Hotel Praha. Its Congress Centre entrance was suitably bedecked with the E-Day logo and acted as the public entrance.

L

ong established as one of Continental Europe’s most popular modelling events, E-Day is an annual pilgrimage for kit builders across the globe. Located for more than a decade in Prague, capital of the Czech Republic, this major gathering is now in its 17th year. For this latest exhibition, however, there was a completely fresh format as well as a brand-new venue. Traditionally a two-day show, this year’s E-Day was shortened to just one day, September 23. While for the past few years E-Day has been staged in the underground car park of the Galerie Butovice shopping complex, on Prague’s western outskirts, for 2017 the location was completely changed. Instead

Revamped & Relocated

 One of the Hobby diorama classes included this innovative scene of a Hurricane being recovered from its watery grave many years after World War Two. Směr’s 1/72 kit formed the core of the scene.

 Excellent as a stand-alone model or in a diorama, the Airfix 1/48 Albion 3-Point Refueller graced the Hobby competition class for 1/41-1/60 wheeled military vehicles, and gained a top-three placing for Václav Vopalecký.

 One of the many expertly finished military vehicles in the Hobby competition classes was this GAZ-39371 ‘Vodnik’, built from the 1/72 Gran kit, and an entry in the 1/61-1/90 wheeled military vehicles class.

 Made from the recent 1/72 kit produced by Hungary’s SBS Model, this attractive little Danish SAI KZ II Træner featured in the Hobby class for civil aircraft and helicopters. (All Malcolm V Lowe)

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OUT AND ABOUT E-DAY 2017

 Third in the Masters competition class for 1/40-1/60 aircraft and helicopters was this beautiful 1/48 Caudron G.IV by Pavel Huryta. It was embellished with various mediums, but with (one suspects) the Copper State Models kit as its basis.

 One of the contenders for ‘best in show’ was this eye-catching Fujimi 1/24 Porsche 356A Carrera Speedster, which was built superbly and displayed with full documentation. Made by Jacek Nabiałek, it won the Masters competition class for civilian vehicles 1/20 and smaller.

following their model-based retail therapy. The event’s extensive competition was sub-divided into many classes, in both ‘Hobby’ and ‘Master’ categories. The entire competition, except for several junior sections, was in a large room usually used for conferences and other major functions. This was some distance from the main show site in the congress centre, and although the walk to it was completely under cover within the hotel’s main building complex, it was nevertheless quite a long trek. Due to the competition attracting many entries in its diverse classes,

this room was filled easily when members of the public mingled with traders, competitors and exhibitors, making negotiating some of the aisles rather difficult. Unfortunately, the lighting in this room was rather poor, and challenging for photography. It is not yet clear if E-Day will be held in the same venue next year. Certainly, many thought the hotel itself was a great improvement over the former underground car park location, and it will be welcome if the lighting in the competition area can be improved. Malcolm V Lowe

 Rightly regarded by many as ‘best in show’, this beautiful 1/32 HpH models Curtiss SB2C-4 Helldiver was built by Zdeněk Šebesta, and won the prestigious Masters competition class for aircraft and helicopters of 1/39 and larger.

of a parking lot, E-Day 2017 was held in the plush surroundings of Top Hotel Praha, in the south of the city. This hotel comprises a sprawling complex of buildings, with the main part of the show for exhibitors and an international line-up of traders being held in the hotel’s large congress centre (and several adjoining side rooms). The ‘E’ part of the E-Day name signifies the famed Czech kit and aftermarket company Eduard, now celebrating its 25th year, and the large shopping area that Eduard presented for visitors filled a whole adjoining room. A positive feature of the new venue was the hotel’s highquality restaurant facilities, which provided excellent catering for those needing sustenance

 Displayed on a mirror to show the amazing flap detail, this Eduard/Accurate Miniatures 1/48 SBD-5 Dauntless was one of many entries in one of the 1/41-1/60 propeller-driven aircraft competition sections.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 35

YOUR AIRFIX 1/24 HARRIER GR.3

E

Belgian modeller Laurent Schmitz explains the inspiration behind his large-scale Airfix Harrier

ver since I was stationed in Germany as a Hawk missile Battery Control Officer, I wanted to build a 1/24 Harrier. The aircraft from RAF 1/24 Gütersloh would swoop in from the south, barely clearing treetops in a futile attempt to avoid detection. Our high-power doppler radars had no trouble picking them out of the clutter, so we had ample warning of their arrival. The whole crew would run to the top of the hill to watch the pair of Harriers pass below at insane speed and altitude, rattling our missile launchers in a mock strafing pass. Not even the American A-10s could fly so low, and they were much slower! Now, finding the coveted Airfix kit proved harder than painting the real aircraft with radar. At the time (1991) there were no online shops and the retailers didn’t stock many large kits. The dream faded for 20 years, until I came across a  2010 re-issue (A18003) of the GR.3 in Liège, Belgium. The kit even had Cartograf decals for XZ969 based at Gütersloh in 1992! Unflattering things have been written about this kit, but people forget it is a product of its time; I was very surprised by the quality, though, especially considering it

was first issued in 1974. Sure, the detail is sparse and one has to cope with the mad riveting, but the panel lines are recessed, the shape is spot on and the fit quite good. Apart from a slightly warped wing, I had no real issue completing the model. I didn’t buy any aftermarket, but just added a few scratch-built details in the cockpit.  Even out of the box, this kit is a pleasure and with just a good coat of acrylics, the result is impressive. Whatever other marvels you have on display, the 1/24 Harrier is a real headturner, so what are you waiting for? Lt Laurent Schmitz, (Belgian Forces in Germany) 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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Airfix Model World

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16/10/2017 11:45

INTERMEDIATE BUILD LAFERRARI

Ian Hartup adds proprietary detail to Tamiya’s 1/24 LaFerrari

F

errari’s LaFerrari is the firm’s first true ‘ultra-car’ – a hybrid electric-powered monster manufactured almost exclusively from carbon fibre and composites. Competing with McLaren’s P1 and the Lamborghini Veneno, LaFerrari has proved an enormous success, with more than 500 built and in the hands of their owners. Ferrari has even followed up with a convertible, the LaFerrari Aperta, which is even better looking…if that’s possible!

Unconventional powerplant  Construction of the engine and chassis started typically with the block and gearbox. These were replicated with a fairly simple selection of components which, once assembled, received Alclad ALC-101 Aluminium.

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Airfix Model World

For such a cutting-edge vehicle, Tamiya adopted an entirely conventional assembly sequence.

Of course, this started with the powerplant, the engine and transmission being based around a vertically split block. Typically, this resulted in a very visible join line right across the top of an area that’s highly visible on the finished model. This was not improved by the complex nature of the components in question, with many nooks and crannies through which the join would snake. For almost all modellers, this would be the simple work of just minutes to resolve, but a little more thoughtful engineering in this area would have rendered the work unnecessary. Colour-wise, the engine wears a combination of chrome silver and matt aluminium throughout, with the cylinder heads in red and all detailed in shades of matt, gloss and satin black; typical for a modern engine. Happy hours

INTERMEDIATE BUILD LAFERRARI

With the block in place it was easy to fit the exhaust system. Cleverly, the manufacturer had designed this so even the most inexperienced modellers would have little difficulty.

The characteristic red rocker covers were painted with Rosso Corsa from the Zero Paints range.  The carbon fibre decals were designed to wrap the interior, replicating the finish of the real vehicle. It proved essential that considerable care be taken with trimming the decals, as they did not lay cleanly across the acute angles and edges of the tub, due to their thickness.

 The cockpit tub clipped into place positively on the pre-assembled chassis. Certain decals had still to be applied to the tub’s outside face, to ensure the carbon fibre was visible when the doors were open.

scouring the Internet unearthed photos of the powerplant in its raw state. As a result, a few darker and lighter areas in the metal finish were created to disrupt the monotony. A light wash with thinned Paynes Grey and Sepia oil paints served to reduce the starkness of the finish further.

creating a need to change the construction sequence considerably. This required substantial pre-planning and, as

The carbon decals required a little more consideration; clearly, they were to be applied over painted and finished parts,

a result, the already completed work was reconsidered. The kit parts were then treated as a series of painting and finishing

Added complexity At the time of release, Tamiya also marketed a bespoke photoetched (PE) metal detail set (#12654) and a sheet of template carbon fibre (CF) decals (#12656) as upgrades. The instructions provided in each were comprehensive and designed to dovetail into the basic kit directions. Tamiya’s PE was of the newer ‘fretless’ design, whereby components were held in place by a tacky film behind them. Individual parts were examined for damage and then given a coat of Mr. Metal Primer before they were painted satin black. With both sides so treated, they were sidelined ready for use later. www.airfixmodelworld.com 39

INTERMEDIATE BUILD LAFERRARI

A test assembly of the completed body parts revealed the finished effect to be impressive.

 Test-fitting of the rear bumper and grille was required to ensure the exhaust units aligned properly. Slight re-positioning of the left-hand rear arch liner was required, but other than that the fit was exemplary.

exercises. Monocoque and engine were pre-painted and the powerplant assembled up to the end of Stage 7 in the standard instructions. After that, it was a question of applying the decals slowly and preparing each part throughout assembly…making it more a test of patience and tidiness than modelling prowess. The kit was typical Tamiya, though, being engineered superbly throughout, so at no point was basic construction an issue. This enabled attention to be devoted almost entirely to the finish of the CF decals and prepared parts.

A new look Red Ferraris are such a cliché and yes, also massively prototypical, but there are other shades in the catalogue… just look at Jamiroquai lead singer Jay Kay’s black Enzo! A delve into the more obscure colours in the line-up was carried out, the result being… red! But not as we know it, as the chosen colour was a Ferrari Heritage shade from the early 1960s, Prugna Mettalic 306.C, a rich high-grain mica first seen on cars such as the 250SWB and 340 Mexico. Body parts were prepared via Zero Paints’ system of primers and basecoats, before

CF DECAL APPLICATION

 The airbox assembly required careful masking before the carbon fibre decal process could begin. Heat from a hairdryer ensured they snuggled into the detail.  The dual fan system behind the radiator body, in the nose of the car, was also wrapped with carbon fibre details before being fitted into place.

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Many modern cars feature carbon fibre, and kit/aftermarket manufacturers have sought to replicate this. The most common form is decal, and the earliest renditions had templates printed on the reverse…tricky, requiring care in cutting out and placement. More recently, specialist firms have switched to decals printed in the correct shapes, applied without cutting. In this case, the art is in making them conform to the shapes and detail. Traditionally, modellers would utilise various decal solutions and treatments, with differing success. The most widely available is Microscale’s Micro Set and Sol. Set (in a blue bottle) is a wetting agent applied before the decal is positioned. It allows movement and alignment. Sol (red bottle) is the active agent, which softens the decal and allows it to adhere to detail. But the solvent route is not perfect; often when compound curves are involved it’s challenging to get the decals to conform. In this instance, extra assistance is required. Plastic parts are best primed in satin or gloss dark metallic grey, to reduce the impact of small gaps on the joins should they occur. The decals should be cut out and treated in the usual manner. Where the decal is designed to butt up to a sharp edge, either convex or concave, then trimming the carrier film to the printed area is advisable. Attempting decals singly is wise, while the process is practiced and, hopefully, mastered. A large stiff flat brush is used to apply the Micro Set and the decal positioned with tweezers; avoid flooding the surrounding area with water. After ensuring the decal is aligned properly, excess water and Micro Set is removed with the flat brush. Hot water should be kept to one side and a soft, lint-free cloth dipped into this and then wrung out. The cloth is then pushed onto the decal to help it conform to the basic shapes. A hairdryer is then used to heat the decal and the flat brush dipped in water, just to burnish the decal into the detail. Keep the heat low and take it slow, so the decal doesn’t tear or melt. Once down into the detail, it should be set aside to dry for several hours, overnight if possible. If air bubbles persist then Micro Sol can be applied with a small brush and the offending item brushed out. Once all decals are applied, a sealing coat of an appropriate lustre varnish is all that’s required.

INTERMEDIATE BUILD LAFERRARI  With the engine bay completed, the rear bumper and grille assembly could be added. The grilles provided in the PE set had already been primed and painted satin black, so it was simple to fit them before assembly. Smaller and detailed parts of the centre console and switchgear were fitted and painted. Do not attempt this at a later stage, as access is severely limited.

were employed here, but modified suitably to match reference photos. The seats were painted with Humbrol enamel and, while

still wet, this was sprinkled with Deluxe Materials’ Roket Powder, the excess being shaken off before the paint dried. A second

coat of colour was applied over the powder and again dried before the finish was completed with matt varnish. The resulting texture was a fair approximation of the Alcantara material often seen on Ferrari seats. Black detailing was added with an ultra-fine Sharpie permanent

MODEL SPEC

they were finished with 2 Pack Clearcoat. After approximately a week’s drying (while progress was made with the rest of the kit), the body panels were flat sanded and polished to a high shine. Arguably, the most timeconsuming element of the model was the interior. The sheer number of CF decals and the colour combination led to much quiet tinkering with masking tape and required solutions. The kit instrument decals were used but, strangely, Tamiya neglected to provide decals for the three dials on the centre section (part D9). Spares from the decal stash

Ferrari LaFerrari By:

Tamiya

Stock Code:

24333

Scale:

1/24

Price:

£54.99

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

www.airfixmodelworld.com 41

INTERMEDIATE BUILD LAFERRARI

The fairing shroud for the front fans had been already been assembled, with the PE elements provided in Tamiya’s upgrade set.

Assembly of the front clip proved to be fairly tricky; a little patience, an extra pair of hands and medium viscosity Superglue did not go amiss here.

marker…fiddly but rewarding. Standard three-point seat belts were then fabricated, via painted medical tape and spare PE buckles, and fitted to the pillars.

There’s always one The kit wheels were sprayed gold to provide suitable contrast to the body colour, before the

brake discs were neatened and prepared for paint. The callipers were to be painted Rosso Corsa to match the manufacturer’s specification. Unfortunately, though, this revealed a drawback to Tamiya’s engineering approach. It chose to produce the brake discs and their associated parts as one single component on each

 The steering wheel assembly fitted neatly into place on the previously positioned instrument panel. Reference photos of the real car were consulted to ensure the switchgear was all painted in the correct shades.

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Airfix Model World

corner, which demanded complex masking and careful preparation to achieve a good finish. In the past, the company has always at least provided the callipers as separate components, but not having this luxury on a premium kit was something of a low blow. Unsurprisingly, aftermarket producer Hobby Design has

already produced an upgrade set to resolve this, although it wasn’t available for this build. But after a great deal of Anglo Saxon mutterings, a reasonable result was achieved and the suspension assembly could be completed. And then out of the corner of the box sidled the airbox…a delight in complex curves and corners. Upper surfaces were clad almost entirely in CF decals, 12 in total, livery markings and selfadhesive PE scripts. The result was probably the most complex single component in the entire construction sequence. After consideration, the basic part (D12) was sprayed with Alclad ALC-309 Black Primer/Micro Filler, then the flexible hose elements were masked and the clamps given a

INTERMEDIATE BUILD LAFERRARI

coat of Zero Paints’ Bright Silver. Further masking followed before the remaining areas were painted with Zero’s 7562 Carbon Grey. The carbon decals took a further three days to apply, with a stepby-step approach spread over the majority of that time; the red centreline and Ferrari scripts were

placed before the final varnish was applied, helping to draw the finish to a cohesive whole.

Shiny, shiny…oops! The roof of the LaFerrari is usually finished in high-gloss black, along with the tops of the doors and A-pillars, and this was

applied to the various parts after the doors and monocoque roof were masked, the resulting effect being very gratifying. The clear coat was applied as usual and set aside to dry. Unfortunately, though, the latter was found to have bloomed. No amount of polishing would rescue it, so

rather than strip and repaint that close to deadline, the whole thing was wrapped in CF decal and given a subtle, not quite gloss varnish coating. By now the final assembly of the model was well under way; in fact, the body panels were all in place, the doors fixed and

 Assembly of the instrument panel and shroud could then proceed; all the various elements had already been pre-painted, and required just detail painting and assembly.

 By this point, engine bay assembly was ostensibly complete; a few gentle weathering flourishes were applied to enhance the detail slightly, while it was still accessible.

 A test-fit of the rear decking ensured the rear bumper and intake covers aligned correctly. The front clip was also slipped into place to provide sufficient clearance for the front wheels.

 The front clip and bonnet were mated at this point, but it was vital to avoid adhesive bleed onto the top surface of the paint. The scuttle was detailed with spare carbon fibre decal, in tune with Internet references.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 43

INTERMEDIATE BUILD LAFERRARI

Tamiya excelled with the fit of the upper monocoque section. The windscreen fitted equally well with two neat clips for positive location.

The fit of the doors was not brilliant due to the flexibility of the upper section, but a little brute force and ignorance resolved that fairly quickly.

Bonnet stays provided in the kit were a little oversized, so Albion Alloys rod and tube (and a few minutes with a drill bit) were used to improve them.

proved almost impossible to transport without it sustaining some form of damage. The engine cover was designed to be posed either open or closed depending on how the mood takes; but if not fixed down it is very difficult to get it closed convincingly, so again it was posed open. The provided rams were considerably over scale, so they were modified with lengths of Albion Alloys tube...much more acceptable.

Don’t make me angry… With everything done, the model makes for an eye-catching the engine bay detailed. The PE grilles added a suitable level of sophistication to the front and rear, while the external CF elements were also finished in the same way as the roof panels. Sadly, the door fixings proved somewhat fragile, so as a result they were fixed into place permanently, a decision that came back to haunt me later, when the model

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Airfix Model World

display item. A friend, on seeing it for the first time, likened it to an angry cockroach – a moniker that has stuck in the Hartup household. Tamiya’s LaFerrari is typical of its modern kits; complex where it needs to be and yet engineered in such as way that even the most inexperienced modeller can achieve a high-grade result with care. The PE upgrade and CF decal sheet are not essential in any way, but if approached in a uniform, considered manner, would result in an improved finish worth the investment in time and money.

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OUT AND ABOUT FESTIVAL OF SPEED 2017

RACING LEGENDS

Ian Grainger draws inspiration from the variety of modelling reference at Goodwood's Festival of Speed

 Ayrton Senna’s 1991 McLaren Honda MP4-6 was on hand to wow the crowds…both up close in the paddock and on the hill.

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Airfix Model World

 The iconic Subaru Impreza 555, of the type that gave Colin McRae his 1995 world title.

P

eaks of Performance: Motorsport’s GameChangers was the theme for the 2017 Goodwood Festival of Speed (GFOS) in West Sussex, on the final weekend of June. It was a live celebration of machines too powerful, dominant, dangerous, and sometimes too clever for the good of the sport; and the creative geniuses and people who drove them to great effect. The immense (Gerry Judah-designed) sculpture, which annually provides a focal point on the lawn in front of Lord March’s home, commemorated the 'Five Ages of Bernie Ecclestone' as a driver, manager, team owner, impresario and legend. 2017 has been epic, with the 70th Anniversary of Ferrari enough to warm the ‘rosso corsa’ blood of any ‘Tifosi’, and acknowledgement of 1967’s Cosworth DFV engine, which powered 12 F1 drivers’ titles and ten for constructors between 1968 and 1982. With cars flying up the 1 mileplus hill climb, around the purpose-built forest rally stage, and paddocks filled to the brim with modelling reference, this was an unmissable event for AMW. As an example of the quality on display, almost every F1 car available in mainstream kit form

OUT AND ABOUT FESTIVAL OF SPEED 2017

has attended over the years. This year, Cosworth DFV-powered cars such as the Lotus 49 (kitted by Ebbro in 1/20) and the 1976 McLaren M23, available from Tamiya in both 1/20 and 1/12, were on hand to reveal their secrets. On the McLaren stand were a 2016 MP4-31 Honda (1/20 Ebbro), 1991 MP4-6 Honda (1/20 Fujimi and 1/12 Tamiya) plus a 2010 MP425 Mercedes (1/24 Revell). Fans of endurance racers, such as the Porsche 956, produced in 1/24 by Hasegawa, Revell and Tamiya plus a ‘Gulf’ McLaren F1 GTR 1997 long tail, as tooled in 1/24 by both Fujimi and Aoshima, were far from disappointed.

 The new 1/20 Aoshima/Beemax tooling of the BMW turbo-powered Brabham BT-52 is due for release in 2017. The real car (owned by Bernie Ecclestone) was being driven at Goodwood by Pierluigi Martini.

 Martini-liveried cars featured heavily, including the fabulous Porsche 917K.

 Several early 1980s Mk.II Ford Escorts (literally) flew through the Forest Rally Stage.

Off the beaten track

by Revell). It is ten years since the tragic loss of Colin McRae; to celebrate his achievements, the stage featured a 1991 Prodrive

The rally paddock and spectatorfriendly stage at the top of the hill climb featured both classic and

contemporary giants of the gravel. Italeri has recently re-released the Ford Escort Mk.II in 1/24 (originally tooled by Esci and later packaged

 The Jim Clark 1967 Lotus 49, in action as part of the Cosworth DFV engine tribute, and available in 1/20 by Ebbro.

Subaru Legacy from Sweden, which also provided him with his first win in New Zealand in 1993. The latter has been re-released recently in 1/24 by Hasegawa. A 2001 Ford Focus WRC from later in his career, produced in different versions in 1/24 by Tamiya, kicked up the dust, while several other examples of his machines from the intervening years, such as the 1996 555 Subaru Impreza, were available for scrutiny. In the main paddock this year there were even three full-size versions of classic 1/10 Tamiya RC models, the 1979 Sand Scorcher, 1982 Wild Willy Jeep and 1984 Fast Attack Vehicle, which all stormed up the hill! If one is an automotive modeller and has never been to GFOS, make those plans for 2018. Seeing these cars close-up is an experience that can never be fully appreciated in photographic form alone. www.airfixmodelworld.com 47

EXCLUSIVE BUILD SEA FURY FB.11

DUTCH

COURAGE

O

Airfix climbs to new heights with its latest 1/48 release, the Hawker Sea Fury, as Jen Wright discovers

kay, hands up…which modellers saw this coming? Not I, as Airfix’s 1/48 Sea Fury was a complete and very welcome surprise. Builders of Hobbycraft’s ageing kit will no doubt agree this is a well overdue overhaul of the subject. As with any new Airfix release in AMW, the kit came in test-shot form and benefited from much harder and darker grey plastic. First impressions revealed there

 The unpainted cockpit components dry-fitted to show the layout. There is enough detail here to satisfy most, while keeping construction simple. Note the ejector pin circle in the floor ahead of the control column.

 Blue seat straps from a generic RAF seatbelt set by Eduard went a long way to enliven the overwhelmingly black interior. Hairspray silver chipping was used on the floor and edges, along with light dry-brushing to accentuate the detail.

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was more kit than I was expecting; five runners packed with beautifully moulded components and a small transparent frame. The surfaces were all impressively smooth, with no graininess. Panel line detail was also good, and while not as fine as the likes of Eduard, it was reminiscent of the way Tamiya kits looked in the early millennium. One area which some may find disappointing, was the lack of separate wing mouldings to cater

EXCLUSIVE BUILD SEA FURY FB.11

The fuselage halves were joined with CA glue. Here, the pointer shows the slight ridge of glue squeezed from the join, but once sanded, no further attention to the seam was required. Raised square panel details were sanded and re-scribed.

 Once nestled into the fuselage, the whole cockpit assembly fitted like a glove. Also shown here is the fuselage frame with integral wing spar which, additionally, formed the front wall of the main undercarriage bay.

MODEL SPEC

for the wing-fold options. Instead, one set of parts was provided with which to cater for folded and deployed. Smaller details looked excellent and, in another more recent Airfix trend, the sprue gates were refreshingly slender. The stores included an array of bombs, rockets, drop tanks and a camera pod. Regarding the livery, for this build we opted to use Xtradecal’s new markings (see panel), which among various alternative schemes offered an appealing Dutch Navy example…something just that little bit different. Hawker Sea Fury FB.11 By:

Airfix

Stock Code:

A06105

Scale:

1/48

Price:

£24.49

Available from: www.airfix.com

Office policy Following the lead suggested by the instructions, cockpit construction came first. As with the recent new-tool P-40, the internal areas of the fuselage were bare, with stringer and sidewall detail provided as part of the cockpit assembly. The relatively small parts count didn’t equate to a lack of detail though, and especially considering the dark nature of this interior most will consider it adequate as supplied. As some localised chipping was desired, a layer of silver paint was applied first, followed by hairspray. Only then was the black added, via Tamiya XF-85 Rubber Black. This was then attacked with a water-moistened paintbrush to provide chips and scratches in the floor, and a few small areas of chipping on the seat and sidewall equipment. A light coat of Tamiya X-22 Clear was used to seal the work done thus far, before using AMMO MIG A.MIG-1614 Neutral Brown wash on the floor areas, to add a little grime. For the rest of the cockpit, light dry-brushing

KIT COLOUR SCHEMES The kit-supplied decal sheet featured a full stencil suite and included instrument panel dial details. Stencils and markings were also included for the fuel tanks, bombs and rockets. The schemes represented are: • WJ236/155/R, 801 Naval Air Squadron, HMS Glory, Korean theatre, 1952 • VR930/110/Q, Royal Naval Historic Flight, RNAS Yeovilton. This aircraft has been restored in the markings of 802 NAS, RNAS Eglinton, Northern Ireland, 1948

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EXCLUSIVE BUILD SEA FURY FB.11

and a black wash accentuated the detail without turning everything grey. Detail painting was limited to the seat cushion, and the seat was enlivened further by the addition of pre-painted photo-etched (PE) brass seatbelts from a generic RAF seatbelt set by Eduard. The highlight of the cockpit work arguably involved the excellent instrument panel decals from the

kit sheet. Rather than being one large decal, they were divided into more manageable sections, which, once applied and treated with decal solution, adhered to the detail perfectly to produce a brilliantly convincing panel. In a rather odd omission, though, there

was no gunsight provided. This was quite prominent on the real thing, and many modellers will feel the need to rummage the spares box or locate an aftermarket item. The completed cockpit positioned easily into one fuselage half, along with a firewall/spar part, which slotted in as it was just aft of the open vents in the fuselage side, and prevented any see-through effects into the front of the cockpit. Joining the halves was as fuss-free as it gets; no filler was required once the normal sanding of the main seams had been done. But there were a few raised panels ahead of the cockpit which were

lost during the sanding process. It’s almost impossible to sand neatly around this type of detail, so it was therefore removed deliberately. After the seam was sanded, the shapes were re-scribed with the aid of templates. Moving to the wing, the multitude of panels were removed from the frames ready for test-fitting.

THE FINER POINTS OF SPRUE GATES  The kit wing was supplied in multiple parts; here the lower centre section had the undercarriage bay cemented into position, along with cleverly designed additions to represent the various ducts. With the lower centre wing in place; it’s easy to see how closely all the internal parts follow the contours of what will become the upper wing join. Sloppy construction here could easily cause issues further down the line.

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Airfix has often been criticised in the recent past for chunky sprue gates…often in awkward positions, and sometimes hard to deal with due to being attached to small parts, or thin trailing edges. As small a point as this may seem to some, it was nevertheless a valid criticism. After all, breaking parts in the act of removing them from the frame is never fun. This scenario has improved steadily in newer Airfix releases, to the point with this kit where it was no longer an issue. Fine detail was obvious throughout the parts, and the gates were neat, small and in sensible positions. Another notable inclusion was that of ‘open’ exhaust ports.

EXCLUSIVE BUILD SEA FURY FB.11

TEST-FITTING EXPLAINED I almost feel like apologising for this, as test-fitting seems to be the drum I bang most often! But hopefully the accompanying image might go some way to showing why. The left wing has been taped together and put in place with no preparation, aside from removing the sprue stubs. Compare this to the join with the right wing after fettling and adjustment, while considering the fit was even better after being glued properly. This adjustment took the form of careful removal of tiny mould seams that ran along the join faces, squaring of the internal corners, and a slight reduction of the thickness of the two tabs. The finished wing panels required no filler, or even sanding after this treatment.

For those wishing to utilise the folded-wing option, a set of end ribs with appropriate attachments are provided. These were quite stocky fittings for strong mating, and positioning the outer wings during final assembly is possible if desired.  Removal of the aft corner of the internal guide helped the wing spar sit snugly. Very apparent is the way the spar supports the join beautifully, eliminating completely any chance of a weak spot between wing panels.

As already mentioned there was just one set of parts, meaning outspread wings had the potential to be an issue.

Mainplane strength After attaching the undercarriage bay to the centre section of the wing, it was fitted to the fuselage as directed by the instructions. Since outspread wings were to be employed, a large spar was then attached each side. This part aided alignment of the outer wings greatly, but perhaps more importantly, it backed the join along almost the whole chord of the wing. This removed any opportunity for that joint to flex or crack. Thanks to the test fitting explained in the panel, all of the wing assembly went without

trouble, or need for filler. Assembly of the tail surfaces had already been carried out, with the only deviation being sanding of the raised rivet detail as it was felt to

 Rather than building the guns into the wing as per the kit, the cannon stubs were removed and holes drilled to allow later fitment of small lengths of brass tube. Note also the substantial wing spar fitted for the spread-wing option.

be a little too pronounced. For the same reason, many of the raised fastener details were also removed, and replaced with fine indents made by a beading tool. The final part of the major construction focussed on the engine, or power egg section. Its supplied engine face was quite basic and was simply painted satin black with a light dry-brush of gunmetal metallic to highlight the detail. Similarly, gunmetal was used on the exhausts, while a custom mix of Mr.Color C352 Chrome Yellow Primer and white was created for the insides of the panels. Assembling the parts provided the only disappointment during the build process, as the upper and lower cowls would either fit together tightly in the

middle, with a step at the top and bottom of the cowl ring, or fit flush at the top and bottom with a gap in the middle. The central gap was the lesser evil, and was duly filled with a CA/talc mixture. One could go ahead and attach the engine assembly at this point, but it was delayed until after painting to ease the issue of masking the exhausts and the metal area behind them.

Smooth as a baby’s… Before starting the actual paintwork, the model was

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EXCLUSIVE BUILD SEA FURY FB.11

inspected carefully for any flaws, and then a light coat of Tamiya Fine Surface Primer was applied; this was abraded gently with sanding sponges to remove any orange peel or rough spots. Tamiya XF-21 Sky was then applied

across the underside and required fuselage areas. No shading or effects of any kind were included at this stage, since study of dozens of period photos of these aircraft in Dutch service showed an overwhelming majority of clean,

shiny and well-kept Sea Furys. Masking with Tamiya tape followed, and although the scheme was relatively simple, the presence of all the ducts in the leading edge made the proceedings interesting to say the least. Application of

Extra Dark Sea Grey followed, via Mr Paint MRP-114, and again no overt shading techniques were used. After removing the masking, Tamiya X-22 Clear was sprayed to ready the surface for decals. Before applying any of the latter,

‘EXTRA’ AFTERMARKET

 Another very likeable design feature was the way the windscreen fitted. The join around the front was on a vertical angle which allowed the screen to fit with great precision…no need for seam filling afterward!

 A basic engine front was the headline member of the powerplant and cowl components. Being pannelled so closely, little was visible of the engine, so more detail than this was perhaps superfluous. These parts were the only areas that needed the ‘Hawker Yellow’ colour on this build.

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Hannants’ own brand Xtradecal markings were used on this build, via sheet X48175. Costing just £7.99, it offers schemes for British, Dutch, Moroccan, Australian, Canadian and Cuban airframes: • FB.11, WG629/136/T, 807 NAS, RN, HMS Theseus, June 1952 • FB.11, TF994/BC-C, 803 NAS, RCN, HMCS Magnificent, August 16, 1948 • FB.50, 6-16, 860 Sqn, Royal Netherlands Navy, 1951 • FB.11, 115/NW, Royal Australian Navy, Bankstown, 1968 • FB.60, Moroccan AF, Rabat-Sale, October 1978 • FB.11, FAR42, Cuban AF, 1969 www.hannants.co.uk

 Before and after clean-up, note how the undercarriage legs were measurably improved with a little carving and scribing around the suspension links. As weighted wheels were supplied, the legs featured a keyway-style axle.

 The only part of the kit that required filler was this joint on the cowl. Fitting these panels tightly led to a step with the nose ring, so this gap was the result. Filling with CA and talc fixed the problem, and the raised detail was replaced with small strips of foil.

EXCLUSIVE BUILD SEA FURY FB.11

 With all construction completed, the lack of any filler is obvious, as is the white strip of CA and talc in the cowl parts. It was elected to leave the power egg separate until after paint, to ease application of the metallic area aft of the exhausts.

 A veritable arsenal was supplied, with two types of bomb, two styles of drop tank, paired rockets, a camera pod and rocket-assisted take-off gear. All were catered for by the kit decal sheet, which supplied stripes and stencils as required.

though, the metal panel behind the exhausts was rendered. Normally, the weapon of choice for this might be Alclad lacquers, but on this occasion, it was decided to use Bare-Metal Foil. An oversized

 The characteristic five-bladed propeller was supplied as a single moulding rather than separate blades. Zero Paints’ Jägermeister Orange (www.hiroboy.com) was used for the spinner and matched the roundel centres well.

square was cut out and placed in position, before it was burnished slowly and carefully it into place. Once happy, a scalpel was run around the panel lines and the excess was removed. Scheme-wise, the Editor and I chose Sea Fury FB.50 6-16 of 860 Sqn, Royal Netherlands Navy in 1951, from Xtradecal X48175 Hawker Sea Fury Collection. Shortly after the model arrived, the Airfix kit decal sheet followed it and while this was advantageous for the internal and stencil decals, that big orange spinner won the day and we chose to stick with the Dutch option. Xtradecal products rarely disappoint in use, and the trend wasn’t bucked this time around. Mr. Mark Setter was used to apply them, with no need for any further solvent as they settled well overnight. The kit decals were equally easy to use, so devotees of

the FAA schemes provided need not fear their use either. A further application of well-thinned X-22 was applied once everything had dried properly.

Spick and span As mentioned previously, it was hard to find any justification for extensive weathering on this model. All the period photos showed Dutch Sea Fury aircraft in near immaculate condition, with little evidence of either dirt or fading to the finish. So, with no shading or fading to the paintwork, the next steps were key to try and provide a modicum of interest in the finish…without tipping it too far towards overdone. The Sky undersides were complemented perfectly by AMMO-MIG A.MIG1609 Storm Grey Panel Line Wash. This hue was developed specifically for use with Sky, so it’s no accident that it works in this

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EXCLUSIVE BUILD SEA FURY FB.11

 Tamiya XF-21 provided the Sky underside, and no shading techniques were used. Despite the apparently simple demarcation, a surprising amount of time was spent masking it ahead of applying the upper colour.

 Mr Paint (www.mrpaint.sk) MRP-114 was used for the Extra Dark Sea Grey topsides. Very subtle shading was incorporated by varying coverage very slightly. Time spent masking paid off, as no touch-ups were required.  After a coat of X-22 to provide a decalready sheen, the metallic areas behind the exhausts were applied. Bare-Metal Foil was used to good effect, being burnished from the centre of the panel outward with a cotton bud and cocktail stick.

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instance. Application was directly where needed, with a reasonably fine brush, rather than across the whole surface. After a few minutes’ drying, removal of the excess was carried out with a pointed brush moistened with odourless turpentine. This method allows ultimate control of how much wash is left in place, and also makes short work of subtle streaking. The upper surfaces were washed with MIG Productions’ P223 Cold Grey Wash, applied and removed in the same manner. Further touches were applied with neat oil paint – Abteilung Abt180 Copper Oxide Blue, which is a pale blue tone. This was used almost dry, to carefully blend and fade a few areas on the upper surface colours. Be gentle with this, as it’s incredibly easy to overdo it! Finally, the ubiquitous blackbrown shading mix was loaded into the airbrush to create exhaust stains, and accentuate further some of the underside streaking. To finalise the fragile finish, a varnish coat was necessary. Mindful of the shiny nature of the original, it was decided to employ a highly thinned coat of Tamiya XF-86 Flat Clear. Overthinning the paint allowed it to stay much more satin in its finish, while not being explicitly gloss. In truth, the model is still rather flatter in finish than was desired, but not so much that reworking was felt appropriate.

No drama Final assembly was undramatic from this point. All the smaller parts had, as ever, been worked

alongside the model, but it was elected to replace the kit pitot probe with an alternative made from Albion Alloys’ slide-fit tubing (www.albionalloys.co.uk). This complemented the brass cannon barrels perfectly and was a simple substitution. The kit undercarriage legs were treated to a little carving and scribing to add finesse before

REFERENCE The Hawker Sea Fury, Royal Navy and Export Versions, by Paul Bradley (SAM Publications), ISBN: 978-1-906959-40-1

fitting. The last addition was a whip aerial from stretched sprue, before adding the crowning glory that was the big five-bladed propeller and orange spinner. Surely set to become an instant best-seller, I can’t help but gush a little about this kit despite the minor negative aspects. Certain elements of the raised surface detail were a touch heavy handed, and the lack of any gunsight was puzzling. I do not doubt that some will dislike the decision not to supply two sets of wings (but price comes into play here), others the decal options. For this humble scribe, these negatives were far outweighed by the delightful nature of the build, the precision of the fit and those quirky/ingenious Airfix engineering solutions. On top of that the finished model beautifully represents the brutish, yet sleek, appearance of the original.

 Problems with Xtradecal markings are rare, and none were encountered here, although Airfix’s kit sheet provided all stencils and walkway areas on the wings. Mr. Mark Setter was sufficient to make all decals adhere well.

 AMMO-MIG's PLW Storm Grey highlighted all panel lines on the Sky areas. After being applied with a small brush, a pointed brush moistened with odourless turpentine was used to remove the excess.

The final finish was achieved with two coats of very heavily thinned Tamiya XF-86 Flat Varnish. Using more thinner resulted in a satin finish, rather than fully matt as one would expect.

IN FOCUS SEA FURY

Malcolm V Lowe tells the story of the Hawker Sea Fury…a significant warplane for Britain’s Royal Navy from the later 1940s onwards

A tidy formation comprising three Sea Fury FB.11s wearing the ‘CH’ tail code of RNAS Culham, where they served with 1832 NAS of the RNVR in the early 1950s. (Key Collection)

RADIAL MASTERPIECE

D

uring the latter half of World War Two, the famous British aviation company Hawker Aircraft Ltd produced two significant single-seat combat aircraft for the RAF…the Typhoon and Tempest. Both these single-

engined types served with distinction in combat, the Tempest being one of the fastest and most powerful Allied piston-powerplant warplanes in the closing months of the war. Tempests were eventually series produced in both inline

engine (Napier Sabre) and radial (Bristol Centaurus) versions, the latter only serving as the Tempest Mk.II following World War Two. Although unquestionably successful, both the Typhoon and Tempest were large combat

The Sea Fury could receive a boost for take-off with a rocket-assisted take-off gear installation fitted beneath the fuselage, as seen here mounted on FB.11 VX667 110/CW of 736 Squadron, from RNAS Culdrose in Cornwall. (Key Collection)

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aircraft, which prompted Hawker’s forward-looking designers to examine the possibility of a lighter alternative for possible future service requirements. The Air Ministry had also identified this need, possibly for RAF employment in the Pacific and Far East, and duly wrote Specification F.6/42. Eventually referred to during these early stages as the ‘Tempest Light Fighter’, the new Hawker project drew heavily on the Tempest’s overall layout but with the cockpit level raised, to give better all-round visibility for the intended ‘teardrop’ canopy shape. The Air Ministry eventually released Specification F.2/43 around the promising Tempest Light Fighter concept. Although several other companies also showed interest in the new light fighter project, Hawker finally emerged as the clear winner with what eventually became the Centaurus-powered Hawker Fury (but with no connection to the similarly named 1930s biplane).

IN FOCUS SEA FURY

Naval requirement During 1943, Britain’s Royal Navy (RN) was forming a requirement - N.7/43 - for a dedicated shipborne fighter to eventually replace makeshift (but nonetheless capable) naval fighter types such as Supermarine Seafires and Hawker Sea Hurricanes in Fleet Air Arm (FAA) service. This coincided with Hawker’s further development plans for the Tempest design, already in hand for Specification F.2/43. The Royal Navy’s intended N.7/43 requirement, later revised as N.22/43, thus became linked closely to the F.2/43 design work; ultimately this was to bear considerable fruit for Hawker. Much development work was carried out on the new projects during 1944, the naval and RAF requirements being pursued in parallel with crossover between the two. Eventually, following several revisions to the original requirements, design criteria and future production plans, a small batch of prototype/development aircraft was built. The first of these to fly, NX798 for the land-based Fury programme related to F.2/43, did so on September 1, 1944. The original naval prototype, SR661, flew initially during February 1945 but without the intended in-service folding wings. The first

With its wings folded, showing an external fuel tank on the starboard inner wing pylon, and rocket rails outboard of the fold, Sea Fury FB.11 VX694 taxies for the camera, with the fuselage number 158 denoting its service with 801 NAS at RNAS Ford, Hampshire, UK. (Key Collection)

production version to the N.22/43 requirement was the F.X, later re-named F.10 due to the dropping of Roman numerals from British military aircraft designations. The prototype, VB857, was part-manufactured by Boulton Paul and completed by Hawker. It flew initially during January 1946, originally with a Centaurus XV engine. The first aircraft of an initial 50-strong batch, fully

navalised with folding wings and arrestor hook, serial number TF895, flew in August (some sources state September) 1946. Early production aircraft had a four-bladed propeller, before a fivebladed unit was standardised, and the name Sea Fury was adopted for this new and powerful warplane. Numerically the most important mark of Sea Fury was the refined FB.11, the first production example

of which, TF956, entered squadron service during 1948. The FB.11 was derived directly from the fighterdedicated F.10 with provision for various underwing stores for the fighter-bomber mission, and like the F.10 was fully carrier-capable with an arrestor hook and folding wings. The exact number of FB.11s that eventually reached operational FAA frontline service has caused considerable debate, the figure of 460 examples sometimes being quoted. Production by Hawker included manufacture at Kingston with completion at Langley. Ironically, the RAF’s land-based Fury, which met Specifications F.6/42 and F.2/43, and which had started the whole design process that also led to the Sea Fury, never entered service for the RAF, and found just one major overseas customer…Iraq.

Powerful performer

This rather battered but nonetheless interesting cockpit interior is seen in an image dated February 1984, of Sea Fury FB.11 WJ288/ G-SALY while belonging to Kent-based Patrick Luscombe. The aircraft was later made airworthy again in the US. (Key Collection)

Although the Sea Fury was derived from the early Tempest Light Fighter project, in its FB.11 production form it was not much smaller than the wartime Tempest Mk.V, with a span of 38ft 4 ¾in (11.7m) as opposed to the Tempest V’s 41ft (12.5m), and was actually longer at 34ft 8in (10.57m – some sources quote 34ft 7in) compared to the 33ft 8in (10.26m) of the Tempest V. The Sea Fury FB.11 was powered by the Bristol Centaurus XVIII 18-cylinder twin-row aircooled radial engine, of 2,480 hp for take-off and 2,560hp www.airfixmodelworld.com 57

IN FOCUS SEA FURY

A dramatic view of a Sea Fury just about to land on HMS Glory (R62) with its arrestor hook deployed. It is FB.11 VW697 102/R of 804 NAS, reputedly the first of the type to reach this unit. (Key Collection)

equipped with rocket-assisted takeoff gear.

Twin-tub tutoring Significant within the overall production of the Sea Fury was the creation and manufacture of a two-seat trainer. Designated for British service as the T.Mk.20, this important addition to the family retained the same overall structural dimensions as the FB.11, contained dual controls but was not carrier-capable. It seated the instructor and pupil in tandem under a continuous transparent canopy design. The prototype, VX818, first flew during January 1948, and in total 60 production examples were built; most if not all manufactured at Kingston but completed at Langley. The type was used for transition/ familiarisation training for

with full supercharger. This gave a very creditable top speed of 460mph (740km/h) at 18,000ft (5,486m), confirming the Sea Fury as the fastest of the Royal Navy’s single-engined propeller-driven carrier aircraft. A Rotol five-bladed propeller unit of 12ft 9in (3.89m) diameter was fitted. Sea Fury FB.11 armament comprised four short-barrelled 20mm Hispano Mk.V cannons, two in each wing. The gun bays were heated with warm air bled from the rear of the engine compartment. Various underwing stores for

fighter-bomber activities could be employed, including up to 12 unguided 3in (76.2mm) rockets with a 60lb (27.2kg) head. A large stores mounting beneath each wing, outboard of the fold, was capable of carrying a bomb of up to 1,000lb (454kg) for a maximum load of 2,000lb (907kg). Other weapons such as napalm tanks could also be carried, in addition to external fuel tanks. A single inner pylon beneath each wing (inboard of the wing fold) was also available for fitment when required. In FAA service some Sea Furies were

The official caption named J Davies as the armourer loading ammunition for the 20mm cannons, in the starboard wing of a Sea Fury FB.11, aboard HMS Glory (R62). Note the black and white ID stripes employed during Korean War operations. (Key Collection)

potential Sea Fury FB.11 pilots along with weapons training – underwing stores being carried, but just two 20mm cannons (one in each wing).

Naval service

Harsh conditions often dogged aircraft operations during the winter months of the Korean War. Here, Sea Furies and Fireflies are parked on the flight deck of HMS Theseus (R64) during a snowstorm. (Key Collection)

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Complementing successful manufacturer’s trials, and extensive service testing and evaluation with the Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment (A&AEE) at Boscombe Down, involving prototype and several early production aircraft, the Sea Fury went aboard the aircraft carrier HMS Victorious (R38) for various assessment and deck-handling trials. The first operational frontline unit to receive the Sea Fury F.10

IN FOCUS SEA FURY

was 803 Squadron of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) during the summer of 1947, replacing Seafires. FB.11s entered FAA service with 802 and 807 Naval Air Squadrons during the following year. FAA Sea Furies of several frontline squadrons subsequently operated from both the RN’s larger fleet aircraft carriers and smaller light fleet aircraft carriers. The type continued in frontline FAA service until 1955, with 801 NAS disbanding on the type during January of that year.

One of the 50 production Sea Fury F.10s, TF947, displays its uncluttered underside and the type’s relatively sleek lines. This aircraft served with several squadrons but survived to become a ground instructional airframe during 1954 Most early F.10s with four-bladed propellers were retrofitted with standard five-bladed units. (Key Collection)

Battling Communism The Sea Fury’s greatest claim to fame was the type’s combat operations during the Korean War of 1950-53. This conflict receives little publicity and the Sea Fury’s exploits have gained few laurels, even though the type served with distinction. This war began during June, the UN’s response to North Korea’s invasion of South Korea leading to combat operations by a wide variety of nations and air arms. Britain’s RN was well to the fore, among the types deployed being the Sea Fury aboard several aircraft carrier deployments to

the war zone. These began with 807 NAS’s FB.11s aboard HMS Theseus (R64) in combat from October 1950. North Korea at first possessed piston-engined types, but Chinese forces also became involved as the war progressed.

EXPORT SUCCESS

The advent of the MiG-15 jet fighter, in both Chinese and Soviet hands, altered considerably the air war over Korea and led to a number of losses, the Sea Furies increasingly being used principally for air-to-ground operations (in which they excelled) rather than as pure fighters. Although outclassed easily by the MiG-15 in terms of level speed, as a propeller-driven type the Sea Fury was potentially more manoeuvrable, and could easily out-turn a MiG-15 in a dogfight; this was the best defence for Sea Furies if attacked by MiG-15s, or to head for the nearest clouds. In a dogfight that developed over

North Korea during August 1952, between 802 NAS Sea Furies from HMS Ocean (R68) and MiG-15s, Lieutenant Peter Carmichael was credited with shooting down one of the jets. The final deployment to Korea was by 807 NAS aboard HMS Ocean during 1953. By that time Sea Furies had started to fly with home-based Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve squadrons from 1951 onwards, which used the type until 1956 when 1832 NAS retired its final T.20s. Sea Furies continued to serve with the Airwork-operated Fleet Requirements Unit (FRU) at Hurn in Hampshire into the 1960s.

The aviation branch of the Royal Netherlands Navy was a major user of Sea Furies, and operated the type aboard the carrier Karel Doorman (the former British Royal Navy's HMS Venerable). This aircraft, F.50 10-2, was an early production airframe and one of the first supplied to the Netherlands. (Key Collection) The Sea Fury proved successful in overseas sales, and several important naval air arms operated the type. As stated previously, a significant early user of the Sea Fury was Canada, whose 803 Squadron first flew the type during 1947. The RCN later became a major exponent from 1948 onwards, as did Australia and the Netherlands from the same year, all three operating Sea Furies from their light fleet aircraft carrier assets also obtained from Britain. Australian examples were in the thick of the action during the Korean War. The Dutch initially ordered ten Sea Furies from Britain (of F.10 type, called F.50 locally), then 12 FB.11s (FB.60 to the Dutch), and received a licence for Fokker to licence-build 25 further FB.60 equivalents (delivered from 1951). In addition, the Sea Fury proved especially attractive for several smaller or emerging military forces with limited budgets and resources, which benefited from the type’s excellent performance and relative ease of maintenance. These flew Sea Furies simply as land-based warplanes, and included Pakistan, Egypt, Burma, and Cuba. Some twoseat T.20s were later converted into target-tugs for West Germany.

A very neat formation of Canadian-operated early production Sea Fury FB.11s from the RCN’s 803 Squadron. This unit was the first to put the Sea Fury into frontline service. Nearest the camera aircraft is TF997/BC-G. (RCN) www.airfixmodelworld.com 59

OUT AND ABOUT MIDLAND EXPO

The Force was strong with UMS Birmingham’s Martin Abraham, who created this amazing A-Wing refuelling and repair diorama, and added a huge amount of scratch-built detail to the basic spacecraft.

 Despite displaying minor show ‘battle damage’, Matt Nicholls highlights what can be done when no kits exist of a subject (or at least not in the desired scale), with this scratch-built Imperial AT-ST scout walker.

Last Hurrah

T

he final Midlands Expo was held on July 23, 2017, hosted by Birmingham IPMS at Leasowes Leisure Centre, Halesowen. This was something of a sad occasion, as a show has been staged here since 1994, and in those early days breakfast and dinner was provided by two of the club members’ wives. As ever, the event was well organised, with good parking provisions, and plenty of seating and space in the main hall for punters to roam around the many displays. There was a good mix of clubs, both local and from across the country, notably the Bomber Command Special Interest Group making a trip across the Pennines with its busy stand. Equally impressive was the range of traders, which included Antics,

Kits-Kits, Mainly Military Models, Hollywood Trade, Parabellum, MDP, Affinity Models and Collectakit. While the competition may not have been as hotly contested as in previous years, the quality of entrants was as high as ever. In the junior category, local modeller Chloe Robinson won Best in Show with her Sherman tank, while Martin Abraham’s meticulous A-Wing diorama secured the senior prize. Birmingham IPMS Chairman, Roland Turner explained the reason for this being the final show: “Having started in 1994, it is both sadness and relief. The weight of the show falls on a few who have the time. We are all getting older, some are retired now and we all have our ailments.” However, rest assured, the Midland Expo went out on a definite high note. James P Maher

 Leicester Modellers’ Ladislav Hancar combined a Dragon Meteor fuselage with Revell’s wings, parts from Special Hobby kits and a host of self-designed photo-etched brass to build this stunning 1/72 Meteor F.3.

 Airfix’s lovely Autocar U-7144-T 4x4 tractor unit and F-1 fuel trailer, from its USAAF Bomber Re-supply set, was transformed into this ESSO tanker by Sutton Coldfield Model Club’s Paul Barrand.

 Phil Middleston’s elegantly weathered F-105D ‘Memphis Belle II’ was a huge beast, courtesy of Trumpeter’s 1/32 kit, which was equipped with an ALQ-87 ECM pod and six M117s on the centreline multiple ejector rack.

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16/10/2017 11:49

INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-15J EAGLE

Wayne Dippold soars ever higher with the new king of the air-defence Eagles

ten aircraft. Surface detail was via crisp, recessed panel lines – which some may find slightly deep, but quite welcome to those who look forward to adding a panel line wash.

F

or close to 20 years, Hasegawa’s 1/72 F-15 family has been the undisputed champion in the plastic model arena…but that reign may have reached an end. Japanese kit manufacturer Platz has released an all-

new tooling of the Mitsubishi F-15J, a license-built version of McDonnell Douglas’ (now Boeing) F-15C. This Eagle kit comprised six grey runners encompassing 206 parts, a transparencies frame and a decal sheet crammed with markings for

Duelling Eagles Platz’s kit, undeniably, demands comparison with the venerable Hasegawa offering. Which is better, was the inevitable question, with both having their pros and cons. The first consideration is cost. Hasegawa’s

This ejection seat comparison highlights the lack of refinement on the Hasegawa seat (right).

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kit is available with many decal options and a ‘new’ version averages around £34, but can be found on the secondary market for less, making the cost of each comparable. Parts breakdown of the Platz product was similar to Hasegawa’s, the main notable exception being Platz’s top wing panel has a lap join that attaches at a panel line, as opposed to the Hasegawa butt seam, which requires much filling and sanding. Panel lines on the Hasegawa styrene are very fine, while Platz’s model had more surface detail but represented with deeper lines. Platz included full-length intake/exhaust trunks, avoiding the see-through effect by including compressor blade and afterburner pieces. Overall cockpit detail from Platz was more abundant and assembled beautifully. Landing gear and weapon pylons/rails were soft in their detail on Hasegawa’s kit. Ailerons on Platz’s involved separate parts (which had different positions), while Hasegawa’s kit had them moulded integrally with the wing. One improvement Platz made

INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-15J EAGLE

Overall, though, Hasegawa’s kit was slightly easier to assemble.

Plenty of refinement

MODEL SPEC

over Hasegawa was the inclusion of a full complement of accurate Mitsubishi AAM-3 and AAM-4 missiles…indigenous Japanese equivalents of the American AIM-9 and AIM-120 respectively. Mitsubishi F-15J By:

Platz

Stock Code:

AC-16

Scale:

1/72

Price:

£28.90

Available from: Platz, www.platz-hobby.com

Overall detail on Platz’s F-15J can be described in one word; impressive. Platz also partnered with Eduard to produce its own photo-etched (PE) metal detail set (M72-35), available separately. It includes a fullcolour instrument panel and harnesses for the ACES II seat. Also offered on the fret is embellishment for the bleed air vents on the inside of the intakes, airbrake and bay detail, AAM-4 launch rails, antennas with mounting plates, replacement air vents and a head-up display (HUD) frame. Construction began with the pilot’s office and avionics bay, which comprised 16 parts (including those for the seat). Using the PE instrument panel meant it was necessary to remove raised detail on the plastic part (accomplished quickly with a mini-chisel), and the avionics bay sidewalls also had ejector pin marks that had to be neatened. F-15s have grey ‘pits, so Model Master 1740 Dark Gull Gray (FS 36231) was applied to the cockpit, while the avionics bay received Tamiya XF-2 Flat White. After drying, the side consoles, seat, and electronics boxes in the avionics bay received 4767 Aircraft Interior Black (FS 37031); raised detail was accentuated with the appropriate colours. Mike Grant Decals’ cockpit placards were then applied as data plates on the boxes in the avionics bay. Platz’s instructions suggested each sidewall of the avionics bay be secured to the

 The darker grey Platz upper fuselage had plentiful surface engraving compared to the Hasegawa part. The latter’s kit does include the intakes moulded together with the upper fuselage…a feature that became an issue during the Platz build.

 The Platz wing has a separate aileron (which could be added in the down position) and a wing-to-fuselage join on a panel line.  The separately available PE fret, which is produced by Eduard, provided even more desirable detail and refinement.

Hasegawa’s F-15 styrene (top) includes the radome moulded with the forward fuselage section.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-15J EAGLE

corresponding side of the fuselage, and this was done with the completed cockpit held in place, to allow wiggling of the side pieces for a proper fit. The company went to great lengths to ensure its components were held in place securely; the cockpit/nosewheel bay subassemblies had two pins on each side, which fitted into holes on the fuselage halves for positive alignment, and a strong join. Here, full-length intake trunking is a first among 1/72 F-15s. After spraying the intakes matt white and the exhausts matt black, Full-length intake and exhaust trunks were provided…a good addition to any jet model.

the forward compressor plates were added. Upper and lower parts that formed the intakes were marred by a heavy seam, but it was decided they were far enough down that just the nosiest critic would ever see them, so no further action was taken. Platz moulded the main fuselage sides as separate pieces, perhaps with further variants in mind, or possibly due to the

chosen design/moulding process. Either way, these parts were the only fiddly pieces of the kit. Dryfitting showed it would take a little wrangling to get them into place; also, the forward portion forms part of the intake, so do The air intake units received the bleed air screen from the Platz’s optional PE set.

Platz offered a unique side insert as opposed to Hasegawa’s one-piece lower fuselage. Perhaps an F-15E kit is in the works?

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-15J EAGLE

paint it white. The instructions suggest installing these items after the main fuselage halves were glued together…and in hindsight that order should have been followed. It was decided to fit the side fuselage pieces in place on the lower fuselage piece before assembling the main halves, so access to the rear of the side parts was available, to allow a measure of movement while the glue dried. This method produced near-perfect alignment, but it was discovered when trying to mate the upper and lower fuselage (along with the intakes) that another one of those pesky ‘positive alignment thingies’ prevented a decent join. Two pins would need exorcising to bring things together and after removal, the parts fitted as snugly as Lego. Holes were then opened in the underside (part A1) before the intakes were installed, so the centreline fuel tank could be added later. The forward fuselage was added at this time, and Platz countered the usually weak forward-to-rear fuselage join endemic of Hasegawa’s kit with

an innovative pin arrangement, which mounted to the back of the rear bulkhead. These fitted into corresponding holes in the lower fuselage and the behind the canopy spine component, locking the forward fuselage in place. However, there was a gap between the forward and rear sections and stretched sprue (softened by liquid glue) was used to fill it. Lower wing parts A3 and A4 had holes drilled for adding weapon pylons later, and were glued to the corresponding upper wing sections. Another wise engineering choice by Platz was to place its wing-to- fuselage join on a panel line. The mainplanes attached solidly by way of a lap joint, and a strong tab and slot. The slight seam was filled with Mr. Dissolved Putty and when cured, excess was removed with a cotton bud soaked in isopropyl alcohol. F-15s on the ground are usually seen with the main gear bay and nosewheel bay doors closed, but unfortunately these doors do not fit on Platz’s model. All three doors were too small for their openings so, after gluing the main gear doors in place on two sides, plastic card was used to plug the gaps. The nose gear door required plastic card to

PLENTIFUL EAGLES Platz offers markings for ten aircraft on its sizeable decal sheet, printed by Cartograf. Also included is a plethora of maintenance stencils, and even decals for the nomenclature plates attached to the landing gear struts. The airframes represented are: • 62-8958, 305 Sqn • 22-8931, 306 Sqn • 02-8916, 303 Sqn • 42-8945, 204 Sqn • 02-8801, Air Proving Wing

 The coloured PE instrument panel improved an already well-detailed cockpit. Careful painting, weathering, and Mike Grant Cockpit Placard decals ensured extra life. A ‘post and hole’ arrangement held the forward section securely to the fuselage.

A sizeable gap was left after attaching the forward fuselage, so stretched sprue, softened by liquid glue, was used to fill the opening.

• 42-8834, 210 Sqn • 42-8945, 304 Sqn • 22-8931, 203 Sqn • 42-8834, 23rd Sqn, Air Training Group • 92-8908 – 1st Technical School

The 21-part exhaust nozzles were beautifully engineered and emulated the real units well.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-15J EAGLE

be installed on the sides of the gear well, to keep the door from falling in; again, the door was installed square to two sides and the gaps were filled with more sheet styrene. Restoration of panel lines (after sanding) was executed with a scriber. The instructions recommended 3g of weight in the nose to prevent tailsitting, so three fishing weights were added before the radome was attached.

That doesn’t look right After major assembly of the fuselage was completed, attention turned to the variable position intakes, and Platz provided the option of neutral or lowered intakes. The intake sides

all had ejector pin marks on the inside, which had to be filled and sanded. Assembly of the four parts per side was tricky, and care should be taken to ensure proper alignment. The finished intakes were placed into their respective locations and it was

 Alclad Jet Exhaust and Chrome, Citadel Anthrax Earthshade, and Vallejo Dark Steel pigment all helped to create a realistic metallic finish on the exhaust nozzles.

noticed that both stood proud, with a decidedly upward slant. Having spent time around Eagles, this did not seem correct as their intakes are usually horizontal while the aircraft is not running. After checking references, the flat top of the intakes appeared

 To bring the intakes level, parts included to depict drooped units were cut with a razor saw, to the width necessary for them to fit correctly.

The optional PE included filigree pieces to detail the inside of the airbrake.

Platz’s transparencies were wonderfully clear and distortion free, requiring just the centre seam to be removed from the canopy.

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correct but a discussion with a friend, USAF Eagle driver Lt Col David ‘Knotso’ Cool, confirmed they shouldn’t point upwards. Not wanting to display this model with lowered intakes, a modicum of ingenuity was in order. It was determined that if the parts used

INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-15J EAGLE

Plastic card was added to the nosewheel bay, to keep the ill-fitting door from dropping into the well.

 Black paint was scribbled in a random pattern to pre-shade the model before its colour coats.

 Without modification, the intake ramps sported an upward-pointing profile.

 The Hasegawa pylon and missile rails (top) lacked the detail of those offered by Platz.

to display lowered intakes were cut in half, the intake tops would be flat. So, parts C21 and 22 were razor-sawed in half and attached to each intake back; careful filing made the pieces fit perfectly level. In comparison, Hasegawa’s rendering of this section is spot on and assembles easily.

them to the nozzle ring. Each nozzle then required 15 actuator rods…no lack of detail here! After assembly, the nozzles received an overall coat of Alclad ALC113 Jet Exhaust, followed by highlights of ALC-107 Chrome. When dry, a wash of Citadel Agrax Earthshade (brown) acrylic lessened the nozzles’ metallic hue. The latter was reintroduced via brushed Vallejo 73.123 Dark Steel pigment. The ailerons were filed slightly (to allow them to be displayed down) and added to the wings. All gear bays were then filled

Forging ahead A feature of most Eagles is ‘featherless’ exhaust nozzles (no petals over the actuators).

A work of art was the best way to describe Platz’s engineering of these assemblies. Comprising 21 pieces per nozzle, these could arguably be the finest injection-moulded exhausts ever produced. Before assembly, each nozzle was painted matt white to replicate the inner ceramic lining. Dry-brushing with dark brown, and the application of AMMOMIG A.MIG-1008 Dark Wash, gave the parts an authentic dirty look. Each nozzle required five sections, but it was easier to construct these together standing up first, before adding

with Silly Putty (similar to Blu Tack), to mask them before painting commenced. One plus point is the canopy being moulded with the correct blown profile, which is absent from Hasegawa’s, but this bid for accuracy left a seam the length of the main glazing. As a remedy, it was scraped away with a new scalpel blade and the part smoothed progressively with sanding sponges, from 3,200- to 12,000-grade. A dip in Pledge Future restored all clarity, and Bare Metal Foil was used to mask the windscreen and canopy. Use of the PE set required small holes to be drilled in the fuselage, for the antenna blades and mounting plates. Each main landing gear assembly was built from seven parts, which needed patience. However, by dry-fitting the

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-15J EAGLE

main strut and torque link into position, and placing liquid glue at their meeting point, proper alignment was ensured. After the glue had cured, the parts were removed and the additional items added. All struts received XF-2 Flat White, followed by X-2 Gloss White, while the oleo struts were detailed with 1790 Chrome Silver. A layer of Johnsons' Future sealed the paint, and a pin wash of AK Interactive AK 2029 Landing Gear Wash was applied, although further weathering

involved an HB2 graphite pencil for chipping and scrapes.

Colour and grime Paint on Japanese F-15s weathers significantly in some cases; mindful of this, it was decided to use a different form of preshading. After grey primer, XF-69 NATO Black was airbrushed onto the model in a ‘squiggly’ pattern. It’s best not to over-think things here, and be random with the pattern…making it heavier in some areas and lighter in others.

Many Japanese Self Defense Force Eagles carry the scheme of Light Compass Ghost Gray/Dark Compass Ghost Gray uppers, with just the lighter tone underneath. Model Master 1728 Light Ghost Gray (FS 36375) was applied just to areas where it was required, and not where the darker shade would sit, to allow the pre-shading to show through. No attempt was made to apply an even colour coat, the paint being more or less ‘scribbled’, which produced a somewhat grimy appearance.

Although Dark Compass Ghost Grey (FS 36320) was called for as the second upper colour, this shade was nearly indistinguishable from the lighter shade. Therefore, Model Master 1794 Navy Aggressor Gray (FS 36251) became a suitable stand-in and provided the contrast desired. Again, this was scribbled to giving a patchy, faded look. Many photos showed touch-ups on the centreline fuel tank, seemingly via different shades of grey, so this was replicated for visual appeal.

 Light application of the colour coats allowed the pre-shading to show through, and ensured a worn and faded look to the paint.  After masking the ‘hot’ sections of the fuselage, Tamiya AS-12 was decanted and applied by airbrush.  Bare-Metal foil was applied and trimmed to represent the metal vent on the spine.  After Bare-Metal Foil was added to the refuelling panel, it was painted with Tamiya Clear Green (to imitate anodised metal) and trimmed.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-15J EAGLE

The ‘hot’ bare metal sections of an F-15 airframe are prominent, and to represent this, Tamiya's AS-12 Bare Metal Silver was decanted from the aerosol and airbrushed after masking.

Decal-tastic! Two coats of X-22 Clear Gloss were applied to give the model a

smooth surface for decaling. Now, if you are one of those folks that feels the need to place every single stencil decal on a model, this kit will be right up your alley; the carrier sheet carried a gazillion of them. Five hours were spent applying all the markings, but even after completing this, many stencils were still on the sheet with no reference to them on the placement guide. The decals performed wonderfully with just a hint of Micro-Sol to help them snuggle into all the detail. More gloss varnish sealed the decals, and provided a smooth surface for AMMO-MIG’s A.MIG-1602 Panel Line Wash Deep Grey to be flowed into the engraving. After the wash had dried, excess was removed with a paper towel in the direction of the air flow...front to back, for the aerodynamically challenged! Bare-Metal Foil was then applied to the vent behind the canopy and given a wash of Citadel Nuln Oil (black) to accentuate the detail. Three coats of Vallejo 70.520 Matt Varnish were applied to the model, harmonising all colours, and a pleasing colour accent was created courtesy of the refuelling door on Japanese Eagles, which are an anodised green shade…this was replicated by applying BareMetal Foil and over-spraying with Tamiya X-25 Clear Green.

To the flight line The Japanese F-15J is a welcome addition to the Platz range, and is clearly the new standard in

 AK Interactive Deep Grey Panel Line Wash highlighted the engraved detail.

1/72 air-defence Eagles. While slightly more challenging to assemble than the venerable Hasegawa offering, the overall improved detail made it truly worth the effort. Let's just hope that a new US F-15C or E kit from Platz is just around the corner!

 The Mitsubishi missiles required serious masking; precise detail painting and weathering added visual interest to the weapons and centreline fuel tank.

 After assembly and being painted white, landing gear parts received treatment via AK Interactive Landing Gear Wash.

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IN FOCUS JASDF F-15J/DJ

 F-15DJ 92-8098, of the JASDF Tactical Fighter Training Group, sports what has become known as the Blue-Ringed Octopus aggressor camouflage scheme; said aquatic animal can be found along the shores of Amami and the Okinawa Islands, and are known to have deadly poison. (All photos by Yoichi Kokubo unless stated)

EASTERN

BIRDS OF PREY Jun Shidara examines the career of the F-15 Eagle in Japanese service

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T

he McDonnell Douglas F-15J/DJ Eagle was the fourth-generation jet fighter to equip the Japan Air Self Defense Force (JASDF), following the F-86F Sabre,

F-104J Starfighter and F-4EJ Phantom II. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was assigned as the main construction contractor, with numerous other firms participating on the project. IHI

IN FOCUS JASDF F-15J/DJ

Heavy Industries was responsible for producing the F100 Turbofan engines under licence.

Not just an Eagle F-15J/DJ airframes are based on the USAF’s F-15C/D but there are several differences; the most important is with the Tactical Electronic Warfare System (TEWS). Since the US was unable to release the original TEWS designed for USAF F-15s, it was necessary for Japan to develop a separate system fit the J/DJ. This is named J/TEWS, and is based on the J/ALQ-8 ECM System, J-APR4 Radar Warning Receiver (both developed in Japan) and AN/ALE45J Chaff Flare Dispenser unit.

DEPLOYMENT A total of 201 out of 213 F-15J/DJs produced were in service as of 2016, as the JASDF’s prime fighter-interceptor. They are deployed to the following units: Air Defence Command • 2nd Air Wing (AW), Chitose Air Base (AB), 201 Sqn, 203 Sqn • 6th AW, Komatsu AB, 303 Sqn, 306 Sqn • 5th AW, Nyutabaru AB, 305 Sqn • 9th AW, Naha AB, 204 Sqn, 304 Sqn • Tactical Fighter Training Group, Nyutabaru AB Air Training Command • Fighter Training Group, Nyutabaru AB, 23 Sqn • Tactical Fighter Training Group / Aggressor, Komatsu AB • First Technical School, Hamamatsu AB Air Development and Test Wing, Gifu AB

Separate from J/TEWS, the F-15J/ DJ also fields J/ASW-10, which links the aircraft with the Japan Aerospace Defense Ground Environment data system. A small but unique feature of the F-15J/DJ can be found with their vertical fins. Both left and right tips are designed identically, while a trademark of USAF F-15C/ Ds has always been asymmetric tips…the left vertical fin having the infra-red countermeasures unit. Also note that F-15J/DJs do not have the option of conformal fuel tanks.

Development history The process of the JASDF selecting the F-15J/DJ dates to the mid-1970s, when the government raised the necessity of a mainline fighter-interceptor to succeed the F-4EJ Phantom II. At the time, the Grumman F-14, McDonnell Douglas F-15, General Dynamics F-16, Northrop F-17, Dassault Mirage F.1, SAAB J 37, and the IDS Tornado were all studied as valid candidates. This list was eventually narrowed to the F-14 and F-15, and the two entered an extremely fierce competition…to a point where both manufacturers decided to show their aircrafts’ actual performance at the Fifth Japan International Air Show, at JASDF Iruma Air Base in 1976.

 ‘Desert’ livery has been applied to this JASDF F-15DJ, 92-8096. It is thought the livery is designed to emulate aircraft of the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force. Note the blue and grey Mitsubishi AAM-3 missile, with its unusual forward fin shape, under the port wing.

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IN FOCUS JASDF F-15J/DJ

JASDF AIRCRAFT NUMBERING SYSTEM Japanese aircraft have a unique serial order, and it may be difficult to decode the meaning of all digits, especially for the F-15J/DJs. All numbers comprise six digits; the following explanation may be used for guidance purposes… • First digit: last number of delivery year • Second digit: aircraft model (F-15J/DJ have ‘2’ designated) • Third digit: aircraft type (all fighters have ‘8’ designated) • Fourth to sixth digits: aircraft number (F-15J 801 to 965, F-15DJ 051 to 098)  A Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-15J Eagle pilot manoeuvres during the Pacific Partners Air Festival at Misawa AB, Japan, on September 10, 2017. Most JASDF Eagles sport this standard low-vis scheme. (USAF/Airman 1st Class Sadie Colbert)

McDonnell Douglas brought its Bicentennial-coloured TF-15A demonstrator (AF710291) straight from St Louis, while Grumman borrowed an F-14 (Bu No.159625/201/NK) from the US Navy, which just happened to have an aircraft carrier with Tomcats onboard (USS Enterprise CVN-65) deployed in the Far East; I was lucky enough to witness this event as a teenager, and still remember the astonishingly wild and vivid flights both aircraft performed. It took the Japanese government one more year to determine which of the two would be a better fit for the JASDF, and after further extensive work, the Eagle bested the Tomcat and was accepted formally on December 28, 1977.

Production Japan is the second largest operator of the F-15 in the world (following the USAF), with 213 aircraft – 165 Js and 48 DJs. The first two F-15Js (02-8801 and 02-8802) were delivered to the JASDF direct from St Louis in July 1980. The next eight (128803 through to 22-8810) were assembled in Japan via knockdown (KD) kits supplied from

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the US, and the rest were licence-built in Japan. As for the F-15DJs, the first 12 (12-8051 through to 52-8062) were imported direct from the US. The next eight (82-8063 – 92-8070) were assembled in Japan with KD kits and the rest (02-8071 through to 92-8098) were licence-built by Mitsubishi. The delivery of the last F-15J

 Nicknamed PAC-FA, this scheme on F-15DJ 52-8088 pays homage to Russia’s fifth-generation multirole fighter, the Su-57. This set of colours is arguably one of the all-time favorites of Eagle fans in Japan.

IN FOCUS JASDF F-15J/DJ

was made on November 4, 1998, while the final DJ arrived on October 2 the following year. The F-15J/DJ can be split into two groups based on the progress of equipment installed. Earlier production aircraft (F-15J 801 to 898 and F-15DJ 051 to 062) are called Pre-Multi-Stage Improvement Program (MISP) aircraft, while all later examples are branded J-MSIP, the latter being equipped with digitally advanced equipment. The F-15J/DJ were equipped initially with AIM-9 Sidewinder and AIM-7 Sparrow air-to-air missiles and an internal sixbarrelled JM61A1 Vulcan cannon. The AIM-9 and AIM-7 have been

 F-15DJ 32-8081 wears the so-called Zebra scheme…another livery used by the Tactical Fighter Training Group at Hyakuri Air Base.  This is one of the relatively newer designs adopted by the Aggressors; note the Cobra marking on the vertical tail.

 Known as Two-Tone Blue/Flanker in the JASDF, F-15DJ 72-809 exhibits another popular aggressor colour grouping.

usurped by the AAM-3 and/or AAM-5, and AAM-4 respectively (all are indigenous weapons).

Eagle utopia Japan is ‘F-15 heaven’ for all aviation photographers and enthusiasts. Three of the four main bases, Chitose, Komatsu and Naha, are located adjacent to airports served by domestic airline services, and thus are easily accessable when visiting Japan from abroad. They also have annual open house events with plenty of F-15 flight activities (open house at Chitose is usually held in August, Komatsu in September and Naha in December). Nyutabaru may be tricky; the closest airport with scheduled traffic is Miyazaki, and the base is approximately 18½

miles (30km) north. One would very likely need a hire car and/ or local support to show you the prime observation areas, but this base also has an annual open house, usually in November or early December.

Mishaps JASDF F-15J/DJs have had their share of accidents during their long career. Twelve airframes have been lost, including one unique (for Japan) accident where an F-15J (52-8846) was shot down by a misfired AIM-9 from another F-15J during ACM training, on November 22, 1995. It is (so far) the only case in the world where an F-15 of any type has actually been lost under such circumstances. It is also the only instance of a Japan

HOW TO BECOME AN F-15J PILOT The JASDF now has two courses for cadets to become fighter pilots, one for the F-15J and another for the F-2. Step 1: First, all cadet candidates must complete initial ground school. Then, they will enter initial flight training in Fuji T-7 Trainers. The instruction period is 22 weeks with 60 flight hours. Cadets are split into the Fighter Training Course or Transport & Search-and-Rescue Aircraft Training Course at the completion of this stage. Step 2: The cadets proceeding to the Fighter Training Course will convert to Kawasaki T-4 jet trainers, learning overall jet operation. This takes place at Ashiya AB in Fukuoka. Training is for 24 weeks, with 65 flight hours. Step 3: The intermediate stage with T-4s focuses on advanced jet operations and basic fighter manoeuvres, at Hamamatsu AB, Shizuoka; 30 weeks and 95 flight hours. Step 4: Advanced instruction is also with T-4s at Hamamatsu. Cadets learn advanced fighter manoeuvring across eight weeks, with 20 flight hours. Step 5: The final rung on the training ladder for potential Eagle drivers; cadets move to Nyutabaru AB in Miyazaki, and go straight to the F-15DJ. This period lasts 35 weeks and garners 100 flight hours before trainees officially earn their wings.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 73

IN FOCUS JASDF F-15J/DJ

 F-15DJ 32-8083 wears what’s been branded the Gamera camouflage scheme, in dedication to the Gamera – the Giant Monster movie series, which was very popular in Japan in the 1980s. 

Self Defense Force aircraft being downed by another aircraft or any other ammunition.

Potential updates The F-15J/DJ is designated as a fighter-interceptor. Since the JASDF employs the F-4EJ and F-2 for ground-attack purposes, the F-15J is not likely to play this role in the foreseeable future. However, the J/DJ has two possible tasks in the future: F-15J reconnaissance version The JASDF had planned to convert around 10-12 earlyproduction F-4EJs for photo reconnaissance purposes back in 2005. These aircraft were supposed to succeed ageing RF-4Es, and would have had recce pods fitted under their wings (similar to that employed by the RF-4EJ). This project was abandoned in 2011, so instead the JASDF is now exploring the possibility of remotely controlled reconnaissance drones launched from F-15Js. These drones are designed to return to their home base after their missions, and be re-used after the appropriate maintenance. Flight tests are under way, although no definite dates have been set on when this system may be put into effect. F-15DJ ECM Version The JASDF has never had

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Airfix Model World

a dedicated electronic countermeasures ‘escort jammer’ to guard its own fighter aircraft. To cope with this situation, development of external jamming pods for F-15DJs began in 2008, and tests at active squadrons were performed from 2010-2014. Due to the nature of the project, no specifics on the results and/or future plans have been released thus far.

Future Development The original lifespan of the F-15J/ DJ was calculated at around  Another view of the Two-Tone Blue/ Flanker F-15DJ 72-8090, highlighting the scheme's similarity to Russia’s mighty Su-27.

8,000 flight hours, and earlier production aircraft should reach this stage around 2025. However, the JASDF now has plans to extend the overall lifespan of the model, especially later production J-MSIP aircraft; they should stay active well into the mid-2050s. It is anticipated that Japan will face a delicate period around 2025, where replacements for the F-4EJs and Pre-MSIP F-15J/ DJs will be mandatory. Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning IIs will play some part in this role, but the numbers will not match as just 42 F-35As are on firm order

at present. There is a stealth test aircraft currently being developed by Mitsubishi (the X-2), which may be the basis of the next fighter designed and produced in Japan, but its progress cannot be predicted. All such factors are likely to affect the final number of F-15J/DJs to receive lifespan extension programmes. One fact is certain, and that is the F-15J/DJ will be an aircraft with an extremely long working career…proof of just how well the original Eagles were designed at McDonnell Douglas more than 40 years ago.

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ON THE SHELF BOOKS

FEROCIOUS FELINE

Topdrawings 44 By: Oleksandr Boiko ISBN: 978-83-65437-56-3 Price: £18.67 Format: A4 Web: www.casematepublishing.co.uk Regardless of which kit one might have (Academy, Hasegawa, Eduard, Airfix), Kagero’s new Topdrawings volume on the Hellcat will be useful indeed. Across 28 pages, one is treated to superb black and white

28 pages 1/48 scale line drawings showing the F6F-3 and -5 sub-types, in various states; wheels up, wheels down, in flight, on the ground etc, and even valuable little nuances such as canopy open/closed are provided. There are also separate drawings of rockets, fuel tanks, bombs and pylons – some being in 1/24 scale – and, pleasingly (and unusually), front and rear views are supplied. Wings folded studies also appear, in side, frontal and plan form, and then 1/72 drawings reveal sub-type structural differences. Five pages of colour artwork focus on six different airframes, including those flown by renowned US Navy ace Alex Vraciu, and to add further value there’s a separate folded A3 page with more drawings in 1/48 and 1/24 scales, as well as a set of 1/72 and 1/48 vinyl canopy masks…designed to fit the excellent Eduard kits (see p.84 this issue). This is a very handy softback publication, which will guide the modeller through structural accuracy, and provide inspiration for colour schemes. CC

FUEL DELIVERY MAESTRO

Contact! By: Bob Tuxford ISBN: 978-1-910690-22-2 Price: £20 Format: 240mm x 160mm Web: www.grubstreet.co.uk Contact! provides the extraordinary recollections of ex-RAF flyer, instructor and test pilot Bob Tuxford, and follows his 23-year service career…which included an exchange posting to the USAF. His early days at

206 pages

Cranwell and Oakington, flying the Vickers Varsity multi-crew training aircraft, are covered along with his time as captain on Victor K.1s with 214 Squadron in the 1970s (and K.2s with 55 and 57 Squadrons in the early 1980s). This experience led him to play a vital role in refuelling operations during the Falklands campaign, being the last Victor to refuel the Vulcan piloted by Martin Withers during the raid on Port Stanley airfield, for which he was awarded the Air Force Cross for gallantry. As an exchange officer, Bob flew the KC-135 Stratotanker at Mather AFB, California, refuelling an eclectic mix of USAF aircraft, after which came a busy stint with the Empire Test Pilots’ School at Boscombe Down. Many period photographs of the author, his family and the aircraft he flew are included, as are detailed descriptions of the latter’s behaviour under test. His passion and enthusiasm for flying is evident, and certainly draws one into the exciting world of test flying and trials work. AD

CENTRAL AMERICAN BUST-UP

72 pages

The 100 Hour War By: Mario Overall & Dan Hagedorn ISBN: 978-1-911096-50-4 Price: £25 Format: A4 Web: www.casematepublishing.co.uk The origins of ‘The Soccer War’ (a moniker afforded by sloppy journalists, due to its coinciding with elimination rounds for 1970’s World Cup) hark back many years and are too complex to explain here. Essentially, though, they led to the Latin American countries of Honduras and El Salvador trying to kick seven bells out of each other for a short while…and with an ambiguous result. This Helion & Company softback tells the full story, and modellers who favour the Vought Corsair may already be familiar with the colour schemes of ‘Bent-Wing Birds’ flown by both air arms in this fracas. While the fascinating and informative history text gives a detailed lesson on the action, providing useful context, inspiration also comes via excellent colour artwork. The F4Us are illustrated, along with the equally powerful P-51 Mustang,

but there are other, more eclectic types such as the T-28, Cessna U-17A, C-47 and SNJ-4. The period photos, which are full of atmosphere and show all manner of subjects. Aircraft lists for both sides are also included, along with useful maps. Building on a theme is always fun, and in this instance, the book will be a boon for achieving the necessary detail…and in researching (and reproducing in scale form) the liveries of the less obvious types. CC

LUFTWAFFE JACK OF ALL TRADES

147 pages

Junkers Ju 88 The Early Years By: Chris Goss ISBN: 978-1-84832-475-6 Price: £14.99 Format: 247 x 195mm Web: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk References on the Junkers Ju 88 are almost as prolific as the roles undertaken by this twin-engined aircraft, but Chris Goss’ pictorial ensemble still manages to bring something new. After a brief introduction to the type and its history, the focus shifts to period photographs, all with highly detailed captions. As well as basic unit and airframe information, the majority provide crew details, adding a very human touch. Further interest is generated by the mini-profiles of certain crew members, not all of whom are immediately recognisable. Modellers will find the interior shots useful in building an early Ju 88 (this volume covers mainly the A-1/4/5 variants, although there is the occasional D-version), and there’s inspiration galore for diorama builders. There are three sections, which will aid modellers selecting the

photos best suited to their projects; Fall of France and Battle of Britain, The Blitz and Training. It’s the fine detail that impresses most, from views of the instrument panel to airframe markings commemorating the awarding of medals to crew members. Stage-managed photos are juxtaposed with crash-landed airframes, and there’s coverage of the aftermath for the latter, including windows smashed by children and fuel being siphoned by adults to augment petrol rations! SF

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ON THE SHELF BOOKS

SOVIET REFERENCE DEBUT

T-60 Small Tank & Variants By: James Kinnear and Yuri Pasholok ISBN: 978-91-982325-6-1 Price: €34.50 Format: 286 x 216mm Web: www.canfora.se Swedish publisher Canfora mostly centres on modelling, from the desirable Nordic Edge range to more recent themed works, but it has now launched a new pure research

series, Red Machines, focusing on Soviet armour; Volume 1 covers the T-60 tank and its sub-types. It’s not an obvious subject, but there has been a gap in the market concerning research material on this vehicle and it’s been filled in a stylish manner. With classy design and an excellent choice of period imagery, this hardback unpeels the vehicle beautifully. It’s a scholarly work, whose text is lucid and informative, and certain aspects are fascinating indeed, such as the KT flying tank version hitched to glider wings, and the TD-200 armoured trailer. Supporting the splendid photos are factory drawings and construction tables (by plant), data/ specifications, walk-round shots of preserved examples, six large colour profiles and nine black and white line drawings, giving elevation, front, rear and plan views. With MiniArt having released three new 1/35 kits of this light tank (and there are other products available, in different scales) there’s no better excuse to purchase this stunning book. We can’t wait for the next volume! CC

LAST OF THE FIRST

SMS Posen By: Marsden Samuel, Gary Staff ISBN: 978-83-65437-53-2 Price: £27.90 Format: A4 Web: casematepublishing.co.uk Not all of Kagero’s Super Drawings series are tied to mainstream kit releases, and they cater occasionally for lesser-known subjects, such as this wonderful study of SMS Posen, which is available currently as either a 1/1250 or 1/100 scale resin product. Putting that aside, one

80

176 pages

84 pages

is treated to a stunning in-depth analysis of this vessel, which was the last of four Nassauclass battleships (Germany’s response to Great Britain’s Dreadnought class). Its design and operational history are covered comprehensively, before the reader is treated to 60-plus pages of top-quality 3D digital views of the vessel. As with other Kagero offerings, these comprise multiple close-up images, interspersed with three-quarter panoramas of larger sections of the Posen. An added bonus is the centerspread, which also serves as a two-sided poster, with views of the ship at anchor and a ‘suspended-style’ depiction. The provided scale drawings are to 1/350 scale; as well as being a median between the two available kits, it also offers scope for scratch-builders (possibly employing later Dreadnought-style vessels as a baseline). Modellers will find this invaluable regardless of which approach is taken to replicating Posen or her classmates, with more than sufficient minutiae covered to satisfy the most ardent detailer. SF

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SCRAPPY FLAT-TOPS

US Navy Escort Carriers 1942-45 By: Mark Stille ISBN: 978-1-4728-1810-2 Price: £10.99 Format: 248 x 184mm Web: www.ospreypublishing.com With more than 110 ships built, it may be surprising that the US Navy shunned the Escort Carrier concept initially. However, this vessel type, eventually designated CVE (and nicknamed Combustible, Vulnerable and Expendable by crews), provided sterling service,

MAKING A SCENE

48 pages

starting with convoy support in the Atlantic, and then proving its worth in the Pacific (notably at the Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944). In typical Osprey format, there are three main elements, the type’s development and maturation (including changes to armament, air wings and sensors), operational service, and description of each of the five classes constructed during World War Two. The prototypical twoship Long Islands were reworked into the Bogue-class CVEs, and then (due to a lack of merchant hulls) the oiler-based Sangamons, which supported Operation Torch (the invasion of North Africa) in November 1942. However, not until the Casablancas (also known as Kaisers after the shipyard they were constructed) were CVEs designed as such from the outset. While the full-colour cutaways and profiles provide good material for modellers, this is more of a historical reference, although it does provide useful class listings for those seeking information on a particular vessel. SF 200 pages

Landscapes of War Vol.II By: Rodrigo Hernández Cabos ISBN: 978-84-95464-87-3 Price: €38 Format: 290 x 215mm Web: www.euromodelismo.com All too often when dioramas are being built, there’s more of a focus on the model/figure(s) rather than the surroundings…well, this wonderful guide from Acción Press flips that situation. Here it’s the base that takes centre stage, and the author, accompanied by ten other superb modellers, provides a masterclass in diorama base-making skills. To demonstrate the various aspects, there are nine 1/35 scale scenarios, ranging from desert to the Ardennes in winter, with special focus on ever-present ivy and ferns, before combining many of the previous techniques into a jaw-dropping Normandy Bocage setting. Techniques for creating realistic rocks, grass, trees, ivy, ferns, running and frozen water are explained in meticulous detail, and all are illustrated lavishly with colour step-by-step photographs. While the end results are awe inspiring, the majority of the work comprises

relatively simple methods, but does demand patience. Best of all, each section is accompanied by a series of reference photos, which show real scenery/vegetation, and these enable modellers to understand the ‘why’ behind each of the featured processes. Although a brilliant volume in its own right, this is probably best read in conjunction with Acción’s initial publication, which delves into the various materials used and how the finished models are ‘keyed’ into the base. SF

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ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS

ROCK-HARD ROTORS

H145M LUH KSK By: Revell Item no: 04948 Price: £22.99 Web: www.revell.de/en Having delighted modellers with its civilian, search-and-rescue and military utility EC145s, it's understandable that Revell has released the German Army Special Forces variant. While the contents of previous iterations were packed with styrene, this is even more so, with extra runners for the extensive changes to the interior, combined with a new fenestron, rappelling frames, chaff/flare-equipped landing

1/32

skids and a TV/Infra-red camera turret. Revell has upped its game in terms of moulding, with minimal flash, no sink marks and sharp detail throughout. Two versions can be built, surveillance (with camera turret) and transport (with rappelling frames) and the differing seating arrangements are replicated faithfully (note the latter type is the most common). Both German Army schemes are overall dark grey: • Surveillance, 76+06, HSG 64, Laupheim, Germany, 2017 • Troop transport, 76+04, Laupheim, Germany, 2017 1/72

ULTIMATE BEAST

SB2C-5 Helldiver By: Special Hobby Item no: SH72350 Price: €29.70 Web: www.cmkkits.com Modellers who thought they knew Academy’s superb 1/72 Helldiver should consider Special Hobby’s re-boxing, which adds new styrene and resin. The latter supplies rockets, instrument panels, side consoles, mainwheels, and weapons pylons, while the former provides a replacement prop and bomb bay doors. All this combines with PE seatbelts, gunsights and

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wheel hubs to produce the SB2C5, the final variant of Helldiver. Warload choices are expanded considerably, and suggestions are offered for the different schemes. The airframe options each cater for a different nationality, including an Italian Navy target tug: • BuNo 89367, 3.F-16, Flottille 3.F, Aéronavale, Indochina, 1954 • 215, VB-9, USS Lexington (CV-16), US Navy, Pacific, 1945 • MM 80036/61-11, Aeronautica Militaire, 1950-55 • 3229/9, 336 Sqn, Hellenic AF, Larissa, 1949

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

FIGHTER ON SKIS

Yakovlev Yak-1 Winter By: Brengun Item no: BRP72023 Price: €14.16 Web: www.brengun.cz Here’s a re-working of Brengun’s Yak-1, now available with skis for winter operations. Despite limited-run status, it displays a high degree of refinement, with deft detail…although there are sporadic hints of flash. The variation in surface texture (to denote different materials) is pleasing, and there’s a cache of resin parts too, which offer one-piece underwing rocket/rail units, the skis and undercarriage

1/72

legs, wheels and radiator grilles. Brengun also offers a photoetched metal fret with wing panels and flaps, alternative undercarriage bay doors and an instrument panel. Cockpit glazing is separate, and has optional formats for the rear transparency. While the decal sheet is small, it caters for seven whitewashed airframes. Choices include: • Red 31, JZ Slepenkov, 21.IAP, 1943 • Red 23, BN Eremin, 296.IAP, 1942 • Red 26, IV Kuznetsov, 30.GIAP, 1943

EXPORT TRAINER

1/72

Bü 131D ‘in foreign services’ By: RS Models Item no: 92206 Price: €15 Web: www.rsmodels.cz

the single runner are well detailed, with delicate engraving and raised features. Colours include silver dope and RLM 63, but the real anomaly is a machine in RAF markings. The liveries are: • DR626, RAF Special Duties Flight, Christchurch, 1941 • Japanese AF, 1945 • SP-AFO ‘Herek’, Poznan Flying Club, Poland, 1948 • Regia Aeronautica, Tiranna, 1941 • 12/444, Royal Yugoslavian AF, Pancevo, 1940

This package takes RS Models’ existing Bücker tooling and matches it with new decals, to portray export machines. Besides the beautifully printed markings, there’s also a PE fret that carries fine details such as instrument panels, seatbelts, throttle units, a prop boss and even under-fuselage skin stitching. While limited-run in nature, the parts on

ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS

WHALE OF A BIPLANE

Roland C.II By: Eduard Item no: 8043 Price: €25.95 Web: www.eduard Now in its sixth iteration at least, Eduard’s lovely Walfish (Whale Fish) is available again, in a re-issue of the 2006 offering. ProfiPACK format ensures two PE brass and metal frets and canopy/wheel masks. While not as refined as later Eduard products, the detail is pleasing nonetheless, and the PE additions make for a busy interior, with a reasonable

ONE-WAY TRIP

Yokosuka MXY7 Ohka Model 22 By: Brengun Item no: BRP48002 Price: €14.16 Web: www.brengun.cz Japan’s Ohka was a singleseat kamikaze weapon, used sporadically late in World War Two. Most kits represent the in-service Model 11, but Brengun offers the later Model 22, which featured a smaller wing and warhead. It comprises a single runner for the airframe, with a separate canopy and tiny PE for the aiming system and pitot

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attempt to replicate the wooden main instrument panel. The decals are superb, supplying correct styles of Crosse Platée insignia, curtains for the fuselage windows and even fish scales for one of the schemes. The four colourful options are: • Lt Seibert, Hptm Fleger, FFA 5b, Western Front, autumn 1916 • Yellow 4, Western Front, summer 1917 • White 2, Kasta 2, Kagohl 1, 1916/1917 • C.1859/16, Bayerische Flieger Schule 5, 1917 1/48

tubes. Unsurprisingly, the cockpit is rather spartan, but interior ribbing and the basic instrument panel is replicated faithfully, as is the complex sighting mechanism. A neat 19-piece handling trolley is also supplied, but note the need for nose weight to prevent this becoming a tail-sitter. For those wanting to embellish their Ohka, separate PE detail set (BRL 48081) is available. Just a single scheme is supplied, depicting an overall Mitsubishi Grey machine with cherry blossom nose logos.

FLOAT-EQUIPPED RARITY

Letov Š.328v By: Special Hobby Item no: 72330 Price: €18.30 Web: www.cmkkits.com Since its first release in 2015, Special Hobby appears to have monopolised the Š.28 and Š.328 families, and has released the floatplane target tug version. It contains the same three runners as in previous offerings, for the wings, fuselage and interior, but augments these with a new frame for the twin floats, four crisply cast resin components (including

LEGENDARY NINES

Spitfire Mk.IXc Late Version By: Eduard Item no: 8281 Price: €37.45 Web: www.eduard.com Eduard’s ProfiPACK Mk.IX makes a welcome return. Its finely detailed styrene contents are unchanged, as are the six decal options, which represent notable Czech and French aces. Highlights abound, from the accurate propeller to the intricate engraved panel lines/rivets on the wings. The pre-painted PE supplies cockpit embellishments, including instrument panel and seat armour, and canopy masks will ease painting

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the target winch mechanism) and a small photo-etched brass fret. Considering its short-run status, this is packed with detail, from the complete interior framework, to the sublime radial engine, with integrally moulded push-rods. A full rigging diagram is included for those feeling adventurous. Decals are supplied for all four Š.328v airframes, which were clad in khaki uppersurfaces and doped silver/natural metal undersides and floats, and were based at Kumbor, 1936, in what is now Montenegro. 1/48

the glazing. The airframes are: • LF.IXc, MH712/WX-D, W/O Henryk Dygala, 302 (Polish) Sqn, summer/ autumn, 1944 • HF.IXc, MJ296/DU-N, Flt Lt Otto Smik, 312 (Czech) Sqn, North Weald, August 1944 • LF.IXc, MJ586/LO-D, Pierre Clostermann, 602 (City of Glasgow) Sqn, Aux AF, July 7, 1944 • LF.IXc, MJ250/UF-Q, 601 (City of London) Sqn, Italy, summer 1944 • LF.IXc, ML135/YO-D, Jerry Billing, 401 Sqn RCAF, Tangmere, June 7, 1944, • LF.IXc, ML135/YO-D, Jerry Billing, 401 Sqn RCAF, France, July 1, 1944

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 83

ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS

FAR-EAST SCHOOLHOUSE

T-2 Late Type By: Platz Item no: AC-21: 2800 Price: ¥2,800/US $24.88 Web: www.platz-hobby.com Platz’s T-2 toolings are a delight…a world away from the ageing 1980s Hasegawa T-2 kits, which had raised panel lines and soapy detail. This new iteration offers styrene parts for the later airframe, with internal Vulcan cannon. Echoing its other T-2s, this kit offers fine engraved panel lines and rivets, relatively simple construction and generic runners also seen in the F-1

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boxings, hence the presence of fuel tanks and weaponry (Sidewinder and practice bomb carriers). The cockpit will be good as is, due to moulded instrumentation and decals, although the seats will need harnesses. The transparencies are clear and separate, so posing canopies up is easy. Platz’s other triumph is the perfectly printed decal sheet, which carries myriad stencilling, codes and unit badges for ten aircraft. These liveries include: • 29-5102, 21st Sqn, 4th Air Wing • 69-5127, 3rd Sqn, 3rd Air Wing • 19-5164, 22nd Sqn, 4th Air Wing • 39-5182, 6th Sqn, 8th Air Wing 1/48

FLYING TANK

AIRBORNE REFRESHMENT

Spitfire Mk.IXc ‘Beer Delivery’ By: ICM Item no: 48060 Price: £11.99 Web: www.icm.com.ua Spitfire die-hards will know about a handful of Mk.IXs fitted with barrels of beer, flown across the Channel after D-Day. Until now, the only route to building such Spits was aftermarket resin barrels, and then Italeri’s boxing, which matched the old Occidental tooling with new styrene barrels. Now, ICM has packaged its existing Spitfire with fresh parts for the ale containers. It may not be as refined as current products, has

IRONWORKS EXPORT

Il-2 Stormovik By: Revell Item no: 03932 Price: £36.99 Web: www.revell.de/en Revell’s re-release of Accurate Miniatures’ single-seat Il-2 may solicit groans from those who’ve built it before, despite it being a game-changer in the 1990s. While Tamiya’s more modern version rules in accuracy and engineering, the AM tooling has finicky fit, and dodgy shape to the spinner, propeller blades and upper cowling intake. That said, if one’s budget can’t stretch to a tasty Tamiya build, this Revell

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re-boxing will shave around £13 off the price. If viewed exclusively, the AM styrene does look good due to fine engraving, and the option of normal or flattened tyres. Niggling areas include a split fuel tank and unrefined tailwheel unit. If one is prepared for the necessary remedial work, then a decent-looking model will be the result. The decals are not as thick as usual Revell items, but this may be to ensure proper opacity on the white portions. Two colour schemes are provided: • White 82, USSR, summer 1944 • Yellow 6, USSR, winter 1942-43

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

Hellcat Mk.I Weekend edition By: Eduard Item no: 8435 Price: €22.45 Web: www.eduard.com Eduard’s Hellcat is easily the best on the market, with the firm’s usual fine engraving and choice detail. This Weekend offering allows the Fleet Air Arm (FAA) F6F-3 equivalent airframe to be built, and despite the lack of extras (such as resin or PE), one can produce a very fine replica out of the box. The five-part engine is worthy of praise, and the cockpit’s excellent moulding will respond well

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misshapen cannon blisters and challenging cowling/engine fit, but the engraving is reasonable, and some of the detail quite admirable. It’s obvious the beer barrels and their pylons are new items, having sharp moulding…and even optional aerodynamic fairings are supplied. As a point of interest, it was Chichester brewer Henty & Constable’s XXX ale that filled the barrels. The decals are well printed and represent two airframes: • MJ452/VZ-J, 412 Sqn RCAF, Tangmere, late June 1944 • ML316/ZF-T, 308 (Polish) Sqn, Normandy, late July 1944 1/48

to careful washing and dry-brushing. FAA liveries are almost always interesting, but research is advisable here as Eduard’s quoted Olive Drab and Ocean Grey flies in the face of convention…the FAA standard being Extra Dark Sea Grey and Slate Grey. One scheme has invasion stripes for extra attractiveness: • FN430/6-R, Plt Off Hannay, 1844 NAS, HMS Indomitable, Indian Ocean, August 1944 • JV105/E-W, 800 NAS, HMS Emperor, Aegean Sea, September 1944

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16/10/2017 12:11

ON THE SHELF MILITARY KITS

ARMOURED GENERAL

M47/G Patton By: Takom Item no: 2070 Price: £55.99 Web: www.pocketbond.co.uk Takom’s Cold War tank series now includes the M47 Patton, and here it’s presented in baseline and German versions. There are nine styrene runners, containing more than 200 high-quality parts; options include open/closed loader’s vision block, a choice of bare/canvascovered mantlet and four types of muzzle brake. The now obligatory

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track/running gear jigs are supplied for the link-and-length tracks, which feature excellent detail, notably on the end caps. The decal sheet may be small, but supplies markings for six schemes, which include: • M47, White 21, US Army, Detroit Tank Arsenal, 1951 • M47G, Y-180760, Bundeswehr, West Germany, 1960s • M47, Pakistani Army, Asal Uttar, India, September 10, 1965 • M47, Jordanian Army, 1967 • M47, Croatian Army, Bosnia Hercegovina, 1993 1/72

A TANK FOR ALL

T-55A/AM By: Revell Item no: 03304 Price: £12.99 Web: www.revell.de/en Arguably the most prolific Cold War tank, the T-55 received many upgrades, including improved protection against nuclear, chemical and biological attacks on the T-55A version. Revell’s newly tooled offering of the latter features top-notch moulding, with link-and-length tracks (styled correctly as RMsh units). Revell labels three schemes as T-55As,

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VERSATILE LOGISTICS

German Medium Trucks By: Plastic Soldier Item no: WW2V15026 Price: £19.95 Web: www.theplasticsoldier company.co.uk Three different types of medium truck can be built here, in yet another great value offering from Plastic Soldier. There are five identical runners, each with the necessary parts to construct either an Opel Blitz GM, Mercedes L300 or Opel Blitz Maultier vehicle. Adding further variety,

SINO-WHOOSH!

with one T-55AM, but the parts for the East German and Czech machines are the same (notably the revised engine deck and turret cupolas and hatches), implying they are both T-55AMs. The four liveries are: • T-55A, White 330, 78th Guards Tk Regt, GSFG, Wittenberg, 1975 • T-55A, White 488, 73rd Tk Regt, People’s Army of Vietnam • T-55A, White 661, 60th Tk Regt, 14th Tk Div, Czechoslovak People’s Army, Kezmarok, 1985 • T-55AM, 15th Tk Regt, Cottbus, East Germany, 1990

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

PHL03 Multiple Rocket Launcher System By: ModelCollect Item no: UA72110 Price: $49.99 Web: www.modelcollect.com Modelcollect’s amazing BM-30 (see Reviews, Sep 2017) wowed modellers with its detail and refinement, and it’s joined by this Chinese PHL03 variant. There are minimal changes, with new Runners H and T replacing the Russian vehicle’s single-piece cab and transparencies, and a

15mm

there are three styles of cargo deck; solid or partially vented wooden frame, or canvas covered. Cabs are supplied as five-piece units, with solid windows, although it would be possible to drill these and replace them with thin acetate sheet. Basic painting instructions are supplied on the box rear, for either overall German Grey or Dark Yellow machines. The scope for detailing these miniature trucks is enormous, whether one is devoted to wargaming or modelling. 1/72

second photo-etched brass fret is added. Together, these replicate the Wanshan WS 2400 chassis (derived from the Soviet MAZ-543), which carries the U-shaped 12-tube rocket launcher. Eight hollow vinyl tyres exhibit pleasing tread, and the level of interior furnishing is enviable. Modelcollect’s generic decal sheet is supplied, so one will need to source any specific Chinese markings separately. Three schemes offer overall green and three-tone camouflage options.

ON THE SHELF MILITARY KITS

LESS-SNAZZY HETZER

German Bergepanther Hetzer Late By: Thunder Model Item no: 35101 Price: £47.99 Web: www.pocketbond.co.uk In September’s issue we highlighted Thunder Model’s limited-edition release of this subject; here’s the standard boxing. Basically, one doesn’t receive the engine compartment detail, or the photoetched metal mudguards and sideskirts (the latter two items being

in plastic only). But one can still produce a great replica because there’s still a decent gathering of PE, metal chain, resin tow cable loops, wire and twine. The colour schemes are the same, being a choice of three-tone camouflage and disc pattern…both from 1945. Moulding quality is good, if not quite as sharp as mainstream releases from Dragon and the like. Thankfully, the jib unit seen in the limited-edition release also features here.

BARGAIN TANK TROOP

T-34/76 (late 1943 production) with Soviet Tank Riders By: ICM Item no: 35368 Price: £18.60 Web: www.icm.com.ua ICM has combined its late T-34/76 (35366) with its Soviet Tank Riders (35640) to produce this vignette in a box…best of all this package is far cheaper than the individual offerings! Interior detail on the tank is minimal (just driver and gunner seats), but the exterior appears accurate. The two-part vinyl tracks feature the correct late-style waffle pattern, with

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spare styrene links. The four-man squad is armed with PPSh-41 and PPS machine guns, and all wear winter quilted clothing. There are six Russian Green vehicles: • White 02, 24th Tk Regt, 46th Mech Bde, Byelorussia, July 1944 • White 2001, 18th Guards Tk Bde, 3rd Guards Tk Corps, Byelorussia, July 1944 • White 41 ‘Avenger’, Sevastopol, summer 1944 • White 34, summer 1944 • White 76, 4th Guards Mech Corps, Romania, August 1944 • White 1-11, 10th Guards Ural Tank Corps, Ukraine, summer 1944

PUNCHY PANHARD

AML-90 By: Takom Item no: 2077 Price: £38.99 Web: www.pocketbond.co.uk Takom will have pleased many a Cold War fan with its new AML90…the first mainstream kit of the vehicle in this scale. Any modeller familiar with Takom will know its detail is usually impressive, and it is so here, although there are no interior features. What’s on the outside is splendid, with fine moulding on the mudguards, realistic bolt heads,

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busy suspension units and even an unditching tray. Tools come as separate items, while the rubber tyres are superb, with chunky tread. Smoke grenade launchers are provided, and the 90mm gun has a one-piece barrel section and a five-part muzzle brake. Five colour schemes offer pleasingly different camouflage: • Israeli Defense Forces, Latrun • Iraqi Army, Kuwait, 1991 • Lebanese Army, 2012 • Argentinian Army, Wireless Ridge, Falklands, 1982 • French Army

PINT-SIZED PANZER

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Pz.Kpfw.IV Ausf.D By: Dragon Item no: 7530 Price: £16.50 Web: www.hobbyco.net

not the real highlight; that honour goes to the vinyl tracks, which are moulded with guide horns, running gear and return rollers attached, simplifying assembly greatly. Elsewhere, details are crisp, flash free and just what modellers have come to expect from Dragon, which has pulled out all the stops with this release. There are two Panzer Grey schemes: • White 11, 10 Pz.Rgt., 8 Pz.Div, Balkans, 1941 • Red 411, 4.Kompanie, Pz.Rgt.25, 7.Pz.Div, Russia, 1940

As with its 1/35 offerings, Dragon has embarked on a refresh of its 1/72 Pz.Kpfw.IVs. This newly tooled Ausf.D is the first from the production line, and it’s a cracker! There may be fewer components than previous iterations, but they are incredible… such as a single-piece lower hull with integrally moulded leaf-spring suspension, and featuring tiny rivets on the mounting blocks. But it’s

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 87

ON THE SHELF FIGURES

UNSAVOURY SCENE

Somewhere in Saigon By: Master Box Item no: 35185 Price: £10.50 Web: www.creativemodels.co.uk In its bid to provide decidedly different figure subjects, Master Box may have gone a little too far with this package, which portrays the seedier side of off-duty time

AFRICAN ATTACKER

120mm

Zulu By: Mitches Military Models Item no: 120RD2 Price: £35 Web: mitchesmilitarymodels.co.uk Mastered to accompany the 24th Foot troop also reviewed here, Mitches' Zulu is a true gem…due to the masterful sculpting and true-to-life African facial features. Benefiting from excellent muscle definition, and a splendid rendition of the trademark animal hide shield, the figure is armed with a typical Assegai spear. Most impressive is the feathered headdress and texture of the animal skin chest cover and ‘loincloth’. Ankle decorations also feature, and the display base joins perfectly with that provided with the 24th Foot soldier. Superb.

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1/35 in the Vietnam War. The less said about that the better. Minor conversion work, though, could make the scene less unsavoury, and individual figures could also be used in other individual vignettes/dioramas, with different context. As it stands, the set offers two South Vietnamese ladies in clothing of the period, two American GIs and what appears to be an Army of the Republic of Vietnam soldier. The moulding is great for styrene offerings, particularly on the females, and the US troops display typical uniform and jungle boots.

INFANTRY SUPPORT

120mm

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COMBAT BRIEFING Kneeling Soldier (on right knee) By: CMK Item no: F35322 Price: €12.50 Web: www.cmkkits.com This exquisitely cast five-piece resin figure is the first of three from CMK depicting a US squad deployed from an M1126 Stryker from the 2nd Infantry Division. The pose is the classic combat ‘taking a knee’, when troops are being briefed by the squad/platoon leads, and here the soldier is

THE BOURNE IDENTITY?

120mm

holding an M203 grenadelauncher-equipped M4 (but without picatinny rail). His attire is suitable for either Afghanistan or Korea, including Improved Outer Tactical Vest, side armour plates, Camelbak water carrier and knee-pads.

GUNNER RE-SUPPLY

120mm

WWII SS MG 34 Gunner By: Mitches Military Models Item no: 120/GMG Price: £35 Web: mitchesmilitarymodels.co.uk

WWII SS MG 34 Loader with MP 40 By: Mitches Military Models Item no: 120/GMGL Price: £35 Web: mitchesmilitarymodels.co.uk

It’s hard to know where to begin, such is the quality of sculpting (courtesy of Maurice Corry) and casting of this 15-piece German SS Infantryman, depicted carrying an MG 34 machine gun. Creases and pleats in the uniform are lifelike, as are those in the jack boots and fabric helmet liner, while the pistol holster and MG 34 servicing pouch are exquisite. The machine gun's cooling jacket and the stock's complex curves are rendered faithfully, while two belts of ammunition are included, to be draped/wrapped as desired. This and the loader (also reviewed on this page) are also available as a set (120/GMGT).

Comprising 12 well-cast resin components, this MG 34 Loader complements Mitches’ SS Gunner perfectly, and carries both belt and drum ammunition types (the former portrayed draped around the neck, while a spare belt allows for extra rounds to be added and provides extra detail on the latter). Equipped with an MP 40 sub-machine gun, the magazine pouches are cast integrally to the main torso, along with a stick grenade, which has been thrust through the belt to secure it. This subject has rolled sleeves on the smock, with one hand holding the drum magazine and the other the MP 40.

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

24th Foot By: Mitches Military Models Item no: 120RD1 Price: £35 Web: mitchesmilitarymodels.co.uk The 1964 film Zulu springs to mind on inspecting this figure. It wears three stripes on each arm and undoubtedly pays homage to Colour Sergeant Frank Bourne (played wonderfully in the movie by Nigel Green), who was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his actions at Rorke’s Drift, in 1879. This figure, posed as he’s about to attack with his rifle butt, is designed to be displayed with the Zulu also reviewed here. All parts are cast in cream resin and possess superb detail and definition. Smaller items include a bayonet, satchel and water canteen, and the Martini-Henry rifle has the subject’s hands cast in situ.

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16/10/2017 12:58

ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS

NORTHROP’S FINEST

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The Freedom Fighters By: Armycast Item no: ACD 48016 Price: €13.90 Web: www.armycast.cz Northrop’s F-5 is a handsome beast from any angle, and if one has 1/48 kits from Kinetic, Fujimi, Academy, Classic Airframes, Testors or Tiger Hobbies, this generous decal selection is for you. It offers markings for 15 different airframes (from 13 nations, single- and twoseat machines), and the choice of camouflage is wonderful, with lowvis grey/blue, desert/earth tones and aluminium all playing their part. These decals are also available in 1/72 scale (ACD 72016), for the

various kits by Airfix, AMT, Academy, ESCI, Hasegawa, Matchbox et al. Selected liveries include: • F-5B, 01408, 133 Filo, Turkish AF, Konya, 1995 • F-5A, 10275, South Vietnamese AF, 1970s • F-5B, 4803, 1˚/1˚ Grupo de Caca, Brasilian AF, Santa Cruz, late 1980s • F-5A, 10271, 935th FR, Vietnamese AF, Bien Hoa, 1977 • F-5A, 22551, Royal Libyan AF, Wheelus AB, 1969 • SF-5B(M), 23-06/ AE9-012, Ala 23, Spanish AF, Talavera al Real AB, 2010 • F-5A, 13323, 6 TFS, Philippines AF, Basa AB, 1970s 1/48

markings and the main insignia, codes and unit badges, as well as excellent instructions with paint call-outs for RAL, Federal Standard and AKAN shades.

These sublime markings are designed to be used with Academy/Trumpeter Flankers, and Foxbot’s own mask set (see Accessories this issue). The aircraft in question is the two-seat ‘Blue 71’ of the Ukrainian Air Force, as flown during the 2014 face-off with Russia; its home base was Zaporizhia airfield. The pixelated digital camouflage is stunning, and the separate masks offer the only realistic method of reproducing this faithfully. Foxbot supplies a host of stencils, warning

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Convair F-106 Delta Dart Part 1 By: fündekals :) Item no: N/A Price: US $15 Web: www.fundekals.com

UKRAINIAN PIXELS Digital Su-27UBM-1 By: Foxbot Item no: 48-026 Price: £9.99 Web: www.foxbot.com.ua

ATTRACTIVE ‘SIX’ SCHEMES

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

Designed with Meng’s F-106 in mind, but also useable on Hasegawa’s ageing tooling, these markings offer a wealth of variety. All airframes wear standard FS 16473 employed by US Air Defense Command at the time, but it’s the dazzling unit markings on the tails that ensure plenty of colour. A famous F-106 is included, being the ‘Cornfield Bomber’; a Delta Dart that, once it’s pilot ejected, was trimmed so well it flew on and belly landed on a snow-covered field. William Tell Weapons Meet participants also feature, and ten aircraft are represented. These include: • 58-0783, 2nd FIS, Wurtsmith AFB, Michigan, 1972 • 57-0231, Lt Col LW

PENINSULA BUST-UP Spanish Civil War Nationalist Fighter & Ground Attack Collection Pt2 By: Xtradecal Item no: X72275 Price: £7.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk We reviewed the first part of this focus on Spanish Civil War aircraft in last month’s issue, and here’s another fascinating helping of Nationalist liveries. The expected Bf 109s and He 51s appear, as well as Italian types in Spanish service, but the interesting anomaly is the Hawker-Hispano Fury biplane captured from Republican forces. The camouflage is varied, and eight schemes are offered. Examples include: • Bf 109E-3, 6•111 ‘Barchen’, Lt W Ursinus, 2.J/88, 1937 • He 51B-1, 2•78, Adolf Galland, 3.J/88, 1937 • CR.32, 3-3/NC183, Sgt Maj B Monegnacco, 3a

Kupersmith, 11th FIS, Duluth, Minnesota (William Tell ’63) • 58-0789, 73rd Air Division, Tyndall AFB, Florida, 1964 • 58-0787, Capt G Faust, 71st FIS, Malmstrom AFB, Montana, 1970 • 58-0777, 319th FIS, Malmstrom AFB, 1972 • 59-0047, 27th FIS, Loring AFB, Maine, 1961 1/72 Sq, 1 Gr Caccia, 1936 • Hawker-Hispano Fury, 4W•1, 1938 • G.50, 1-1•, Maj M Bonanzo, Gruppo Sperimentale Caccia, 1939 • CR.32, White 5•, X Gruppo Autonomo Caccia ‘Baleari’, 1936

ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS

FEMALE-ADORNED THUDS

F-105D Thunderchiefs MiG Killers By: Kits World Item no: KW148162 Price: £10.20 Web: www.kitsworld.co.uk The subjects on this sheet are interesting due to their artwork, but errors have crept in. Kits World has afforded the name MiG Killers to this package, but just the first aircraft flew in Vietnam. While Kits World states the serial 60-0504 (correct) on the instructions for its first choice, ‘Memphis Belle II’, the decal itself reads 61-0504. The second livery, for ‘610165’ has an incorrect serial; the number just quoted was worn

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by an F-105D-25RE that served in Vietnam (as quoted by Kits World’s Website) that sported three names at different times while in theatre:’ Jake’s Jewel’, ‘Suzi Baby’ and ‘The Little Harem’. The actual number should be 61-0145, which was a Thunderchief named ‘My Honeypot’, which served with the Virginia Air National Guard…and it’s this artwork that is provided by Kits World; the latter aircraft never served in Vietnam. The serials are easy to correct with aftermarket numbers, though, and the printing of the artwork, unit badges and insignia is very good. Ideal for Revell-Monogram or Hobby Boss F-105Ds.

CROWN-MARKED BOLKOWS

MBB 105 CB-3 & CBS, HKP 9A/B By: Moose Republic Item no: 72024 Price: €13.10 Web: www.mooserepublic.se Fans of Swedish-operated types will love this new sheet. It’ll work on Airfix or Amodel 1/72 kits of the Bo 105 (which need minor conversion work), but apparently the boutique firm Top Gun produced a resin kit of the Swedish HKP 9A/B in 2013… although that might be hard to find. Here, Moose Republic’s sheet is small but perfectly formed, with beautifully printed

Classic Airframes, Special Hobby and Tamiya Buffalos would all be worthy recipients of these classy markings from SBS Model. Fours schemes are provided for the Model 239… the de-navalised version of the Buffalo. Being Finnish Air Force variants, the camouflage is attractive (whitewash partially decorates one of the airframes)

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C-47 Dakota in RAAF and RNZAF Service By: DK Decals Item no: 72035 Price: £10.50 Web: www.dkdecals.cz Brewster Model 239 in Finnish Service By: SBS Model Item no: D48012 Price: €10 Web: www.sbsmodel.com

stencils, unit badges, Swedish insignia, code numbers and serials. The two liveries worn by the type, Swedish Army ‘splinter’, and Flygvapnet green with Day-Glo orange panels, are both catered for, and the instructions are splendid, with great colour artwork, structural notes and paint call-outs. While generic codes and serials for many aircraft in the fleets are provided, examples are: • HKP 9A, 09010/Yellow 10, AF1 Boden, early 1990s • HKP 9B, 09414/F94 - F6, Flygvapnet, Karlsborg • HKP 9B, 09415/G93 – F7, Flygvapnet, Såtenäs

ANTIPODEAN HAULERS

BUFFALOS IN THE COLD

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and varied, but there is also a smart doped aluminium machine with a black rudder. The white decals look to have enough opacity to combat colour bleed-through, and the printing overall is sharp. The aircraft are: • BW-367/White 7 ‘Tre Bröder’, 2/LeLv 24, Vesivehmaa, spring 1941 • BW-368/ Red 1, LeLv 24, Kontupohja, winter 1942 • BW-393/White 7, 1/LeLv 24, Suuläjarvi, spring 1943 • BW-377, 4/LeLv 24, Suuläjarvi, autumn 1942

Twelve different Dakotas are represented by this superb four-sheet collection (two sheets shown here), with all options being for aircraft operated by Australia and New Zealand in World War Two and the post-war period. Olive Drab is the predominant colour, but on one or two examples it’s enlivened by splashes of Foliage Green and

bare metal. Different styles of insignia also provide variety, as well as beautifully printed nose art. Choices include: • C-47B, A65-100/ BK-P, 35 Sqn RAAF, 1945 • C-47A, A65-/RE-J/ VH-CTH, 36 Sqn RAAF, 1943 • C-47B, A65-71/ OM-N/VH-CIN, 37 Sqn RAAF, 1945 • C-47, NZ3501/P, 40 Sqn RNZAF, 1943 • C-47A, NZ3503/M ‘Anything Anywhere Anytime’, 40 Sqn RNZAF, 1944 • C-47A, A65-32/ BT-Q/VH-CUD, 36 Sqn RAAF, 1946

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 91

ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS

GAGGLE OF GUNSHIPS

M-24V, VP, R, K ‘Hind’ Family (2) By: Begemot Item no: 72-064 Price: £8.99 Web: www.begemotdecals.ru Russian/Soviet Air Force, Navy and Army Hinds form the bulk of the sub-types catered for by Begemot’s very busy decal package, but export machines are also covered. The latter include Mi-24/35 helicopters operated by countries such as Mongolia, Ivory Coast, Ukraine,

Armenia, India, Macedonia, Sudan, among others. The main sheet shown here carries a wealth of colourful markings, while a second item offers myriad stencilling (for weaponry as well as the airframe itself), and tail boom ‘danger’ banners. The time-span of the liveries is appealing, too, as old-school camo rubs along with much more recent matt dark grey on the Russian examples. Some of the Hinds are: • Mi-24R, Blue 48, Armenian Air Force, Erevan AB, 2012 • Mi-24K, Red 12, 178th SHR, Soviet Army Aviation, Borstel AB, former GDR, late 1980s • Mi-24VP, Red 35, 125th SHS, Russian Naval Aviation, Chkalovsk, 2013 • Mi-24VP, Yellow 06, 16th Bde Ukrainian Army Aviation, Brody, 2014 • Mi-24R, Orange 45, 113th SMAS, Russian Air Force, Sperenberg, former GDR, 1994 • Mi-35, Black 854, Free Libyan Air Force, 2011 • Mi-24V, Black 740, Polish Army Group ‘White Eagle’, Afghanistan, 2010

OLIVE DRAB CANVAS

A-20 Pin-Up Nose Part II By: Foxbot Item no: 72-007 Price: £11.40 Web: www.foxbot.com.ua Any modeller with Frog, Matchbox or Special Hobby A-20s on the build list should note this excellent sheet, which follows Foxbot’s first USAAF Havoc instalment (reviewed last month). The focus is, yet again, on nose art and as

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with the debut set, a ‘what-if’ option accompanies the real machines. Port-side colour profiles are supplied for two aircraft, but just a single starboard nose close-up illustration for the third, and a port nose view for the notional scheme. The decals are rendered well and possess rich colouring: • A-20G-40-DO, 43-21429/E ‘Mis-A-Sip, 388th BS, 312nd BG, Philippines, winter 1945 • A-20-G ‘Heavenly Body’, 416th BG, France, 1945 • A-20K-15-DO, 4611 ‘Double Busted Toby from Muskogee’, 410th BG, France, April 1945 • What-if option: ‘Cocktail Baby’ (no sub-type stated)

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

TUMULTUOUS TRIO

Hawker Tempest Mk.2/F.2 By: Xtradecal Item no: X32066 Price: £7.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk Printed to fit Special Hobby’s recent (and superb) Tempest kit, Xtradecal’s markings cater for three airframes, all with different colouring. There’s High Speed Silver, Day Fighter camouflage and desert shades to ring the changes, and the later-style RAF

roundels possess the correct brighter shades of red and blue. These decals score highly for register and richness of hue, and come on two sheets. The featured choices are: • F.2, PR533/5R-V, 33 Sqn RAF, Kuala Lumpur, Malaya, 1949-50 • Mk.2, MW798/HF-M, 54 Sqn RAF, Chilbolton, Hants, summer 1946 • F.2, A130, 5 Sqn Royal Pakistani Air Force, 1948

BOMBER, SNOOPER AND NIGHT FIGHTER Dornier Do 215B-1/B-2/B-4/B-5 By: Xtradecal Item no: X72277 Price: £7.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk ICM’s recent 1/72 Dornier releases were always going to attract the attention of decal producers, and thankfully, Hannants’ Xtradecal label has met the challenge. This package provides eight liveries for various Dornier Do 215 subtypes, mostly in splinter camouflage, but there are also two night fighters (including the mount of the highest-scoring nocturnal Luftwaffe ace) and a Hungarian Air Force machine. Thankfully, reconnaissance airframes are represented too. The choices are: • B-4, G2+BH, 1.(F)/124, Stavanger, Norway, April, 1940 • B-2, G2+MH, 1.(F)/124, Konigsberg, Germany, 1942 • B-2, T5+PL, 3.(F)/Aufkl.Gr Ob.d.L, Eastern Front

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• B-2, V7+09, 1/1 Long-Range Recce Sqn, Hungarian AF, 1942 • B-1, T5+AC, Aufkl.Gr.(F) Ob.d.L, Finland, July 1941 • B-5, GP+PM, Helmut Lent, 4./NJG 1, St Trond, Belgium, 1941 • B-5, R4+AP, 6./NJG 2, Leeuwarden, Nertherlands

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ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

IMPROVED H-CLASS

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PEW FOR A HUMP

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KAMIKAZE REFINED

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MODERN FLANKER

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Digital Su-27UBM of Ukrainian Air Force Masks By: Foxbot Item no: FM 48-004 Price: £4.50 Web: www.foxbot.com.ua HMS Hotspur By: Atlantic Models Item no: ATEM 60008 Price: £6.75 Web: www.atlantic models.net Modellers with either Airfix’s HMS Hotspur or Naval Destroyers of WWII box set will find Atlantic Models’ photo-etched brass upgrade for the former ship most useful. It’s a complex offering, with railings, ladders, davits and depthcharge racks, along with shields for the primary QF 4.7in (120mm) armament replacement anti-aircraft gun platform and two styles of radar antenna. Helpful as ever, there are also components allowing most ships from the I-, G- and H-classes of destroyers to be built (as they shared the same hull and had similar superstructures).

KEEPING IT COOL

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Sopwith Camel Wicker Seat with Cushion By: BarracudaCast Item no: BR32332 Price: $6.50 Web: www.barracudacast.com Designed for Wingnut Wings’ Sopwith Camels (see the build feature in last month’s issue), this sumptuously detailed resin seat replicates the wicker-style item common in those early biplane fighters. Barracuda is to be commended for its thin castings, and while these make the seat fragile, the instructions provide clear advice on how to separate these from the casting blocks without damage. Two different styles of cushion are supplied, offering a choice of with/without upholstery buttons, and these fit neatly onto the seat base.

TUSKS AND ALL?

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Walrus Mk.I exterior By: Eduard Item no: 48929 Price: €14.95 Web: www.eduard.com Last month we highlighted Eduard’s interior PE details for Airfix’s new 1/48 Walrus Mk.I. Here, we now have the exterior equivalent, which offers selected surface panels, ignition wiring and cylinder details for the engine, embellishment for the circular front hatch, a machine gun magazine, weapons racks and other items. It’s a well-considered selection, guaranteed to add an extra dimension.

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

Brengun’s Ohka Model 22 is a delight (see Aircraft reviews), but this photo-etched metal update will make a huge difference. The single fret provides a new seat (with lightening holes), harness, rudder pedals, instrument panel (with dials on an acetate sheet) and intake vanes for the interior, while there are several new panels for the exterior, along with rudder and elevator balances and a canopy mirror. This is a superb set, and represents great value.

BOMBER COVERAGE

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1/144 HUNK OF JUNK UPGRADE

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Fire Equipment By: ResiCAST Item no: 35.2386 Price: €19.50 Web: www.resicast.com ResiCAST’s handy fire-fighting accessories are a welcome addition, providing stirrups, extinguishers, hydrants, bell-style alarms, hose reels and signs. The majority of this set is resin, and most items are single piece, just the hydrant cupboard requiring assembly, and best of all, there are even wall-mounted boards and photo-etched brass brackets for the fire extinguishers. Given the variety of equipment provided, this could easily contribute to several dioramas or vignettes. Highly recommended.

MXY-7 Ohka Model 22 By: Brengun Item no: BRL48081 Price: €7.08 Web: www.brengun.cz

Readers who’ve studied the decal reviews on p.90 will have seen Foxbot’s excellent markings for Ukrainian digitalcamouflaged Su-27s. Here’s the masks to enable that scheme to be replicated with (relative) ease. Foxbot supplies two A-4sized sheets of die-cut vinyl masks, and another that’s onethird of this size, and colour/ monotone instructions are also provided. This process will take patience, but it’s the only practical route to this livery’s execution… the result will be stunning, though.

Douglas A-20C Havoc/Boston Canopy Airbrush Mask By: MH Models Item no: X72010 Price: €3 Web: www.mhmodels.cz Special Hobby has re-released its A-20 kits and thankfully, Czech firm MH Models has been quick off the mark with dedicated canopy masks. Made from a die-cut, self-adhesive medium, these bespoke items will make life quick and easy come painting/airbrushing time. All sections are lettered on the instructions, for no-fuss application.

YT-1300 Millennium Falcon By: Green Strawberry Item no: 01616 Price: $24.50 Web: www.greenstrawberry.cz There’s no “I’ve got a bad feeling about this” in sight with Green Strawberry’s gorgeous photo-etched brass upgrade for Bandai’s 1/144 Millennium Falcon. While extra refinement for the cockpit is offered, the real boon is for the upper and lower gun turrets, which both receive a full interior; there’s also a new mount for the upper-hull radar and mesh ‘collars’ for the landing gear. Also provided are self-adhesive placard for the cockpit and turrets, removing the need to paint those areas. A separate set is available for the engine grilles (01715).

ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

TWO-SEAT DASSAULT

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Mirage F.1B By: Eduard Item no: 73583 Price: €18.75 Web: www.eduard.com Special Hobby has already released detail extras for its Mirage F.1 kits (seats, radar), but now it’s Eduard’s turn at embellishment, with its own photo-etched brass/pre-coloured metal package for the two-seater. On offer is a full array of cockpit parts, seat harnesses and a firing handle… but there’s much more, including engine components, surface panels, linings for the undercarriage bays, tail antennas, airbrakes, fuel tank fins and canopy/ windscreen trim. Superb!

CITY SCENE

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SOLDIERS’ ESSENTIALS

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COWBOY RELIEF

54mm

Wild Wild West Outhouse By: Masterpiece Models Item no: MMWW105 Price: $19.99 Web: www.masterpiece models.com

WWII German Infantry Weapons & Equipment By: ICM Item no: 35638 Price: £8.50 Web: www.icm.com.ua ICM delivers a great value product that educates and provides a wealth of equipment for 1/35 German figures and vehicles. Four runners provide principle weapons (MP 40, MG 34, Kar 98k), but also ammunition pouches and magazines, bayonets, water bottles, gas mask carriers and helmets…all are labelled and identified in the instructions. The moulding is superb, with the cooling jacket on the MG 34 a standout feature, but ICM also supplies ammunition belts.

WARPAC TANKBUSTER

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With the recent focus on 1/35 Western figures (think Master Box), Masterpiece Models’ Outhouse is timely. It comprises a single sheet of laser-cut wood components and although it appears to have sufficient for two buildings, these should be double-skinned (representing inner and outer woodgrain texture) for a single outhouse. Internal structural framework is also supplied, along with a ‘drop box’ for the figures to sit on, and two resin T-shaped hinges. This will be a great addition to any Western diorama/ vignette, adding plenty of character; now, for those 1/35 flies…

RAPID-FIRE EXTRAS

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Urban Tarmac Street with Tram Track By: adM Models Item no: N/A Price: £8 Web: www.admmodels.co.uk With the excellent range of 1/72 military vehicles now available, aftermarket producers have responded in kind. This neat base is a fine option on which to display any number of subjects, be they armour, soft-skins, staff cars or civilian machines. There’s enough texture on the tarmac to impart life and accept a helping of grime, via weathering, and the brick corner-piece is enlivened by a well-crafted grid and adjacent drain cover. Even the tram lines have the appropriate stepped profile.

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He 111 MG FF Nose Installation By: ProfiModeller Item no: 32293 Price: €15.39 Web: www.profimodeller.com Revell’s impressive He 111H-6 receives a stunning resin and photo-etched brass upgrade from ProfiModeller, with the Czech firm’s product replacing the kit’s nose MG FF installation. Cast beautifully in black and pale tan resin, this is a busy affair, but one which captures the bulky nature of this 20mm weapon accurately, and even includes a chute for spent shell casings. Four drumstyle magazines are supplied, sufficient for one in-use item and three spares.

AGGRESSIVE TWIN-TUB

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L-39ZA/ZO By: Brengun Item no: BRL48080 Price: €9.28 Web: www.brengun.cz

Su-25UB/UBK interior By: Eduard Item no: 49835 Price: €25.95 Web: www.eduard.com The original OEZ Su-25 from the 1980s has been re-boxed many times. The common denominator with most re-releases, though, is the styrene remains unchanged…and it’s ripe for upgrade. Eduard’s new parts, in photo-etched brass and precoloured metal, are comprehensive in their scope. Apart from the obvious cockpit embellishment via replacement instrument panels, side consoles and ejection seat features, one also receives components for the floor, headup display, canopies, bulkheads, cockpit sills and windscreen.

BIG-GUN HEINKEL

Soviet Machineguns and Equipment By: MiniArt Item no: 35255 Price: £14.99 Web: www.miniart-models.com Whether it’s spares for a diorama, or to replace weapons on a figure or armoured vehicle, this excellent set is ideal. There are 11 styrene runners and a small photo-etched brass fret, and together they provide sufficient parts for DShK, DP and DT machine guns, 1910/30 and 1940 Maxims, and a PTRD41 anti-tank rifle. Ammunition containers are supplied in at least five different sizes and styles, from crates to soldiers’ magazine pouches, and there are ammo belts and even single rounds for the PTRD-41.

Special Hobby’s 1/48 kit of the Albatros sub-types optimised and upgraded for armed training and light attack is good. But here, Brengun offers a wealth of extra detail in photo-etched metal. It’s almost all about the expansive cockpit, with replacement instrument panels, side consoles/ sidewall panels and ejection seat straps/firing handles, although both crew ladders are also embellished via their own bespoke components, and there is a handful of external airframe parts…and instruments printed on clear acetate.

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 95

ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

FRESCO FINERY

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GALLIC AIR-TO-AIR

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GOD OF THE SEA

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HUGHES’ ‘DELTA’

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AIM-4D By: Eduard Item no: 672055 Price: €7.45 Web: www.eduard.com

MiG-17PF By: Brengun Item no: BRL72124 Price: €6.11 Web: www.brengun.cz The KP MiG-17 is seriously long in the tooth now, but for those brave modellers who still have it in their stashes, Brengun’s photo-etched metal update will add much needed detail. The activity centres mostly on the cockpit, via new ejection seat components, side consoles and instrument panel (with printed acetate). There are other features too, such as undercarriage bay doors, aerials, canopy embellishment, and even afterburner sections. Suddenly, KP’s venerable kit just became much more appealing!

VINTAGE TIPPLES

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Champagne & Cognac Bottles with Crates By: MiniArt Item no: 35575 Price: £15.99 Web: www.moniart-models.com Following its wine bottles set (see Reviews June 2017), MiniArt now caters for those more ‘refined’ dioramas, providing 180 champagne and cognac bottles. While there are sufficient crates for all the champagne, unfortunately there are sufficient for just two-thirds of the brandy, so those figures have plenty to sample! The moulding is superb, with simulated wood grain on the crates and a mix of green and brown clear styrene alcohol containers. As a final touch, there’s a splendid selection of decals for the logos, brand names and crate markings.

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Wheels for P2V Neptune By: Plus Model Item no: AL7018 Price: €6.80 Web: www.plusmodel.cz Matra R-550 Magic By: Eduard Item no: 648323 Price: €9.95 Web: www.eduard.com Modellers with French Mirage or Jaguar builds will find these stores most useful, although one may have to seek different rails if replicating the latter. Eduard provides two Matra Magic missiles and their attendant parts in resin, but there are also photo-etched brass details. All the front fins are cast separately, as are the seeker heads (tape masks are given for these). Protective covers are also provided – as are umbilical cables if posing the stores off the aircraft (on a trolley or loader), and rails for a Mirage 2000. A busy decal sheet provides all the stencilling, ‘high explosive’ and ‘live rocket motor’ stripes.

PERFECT PIPES

STARFIGHTER EXHAUSTS

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LUFTWAFFE TWIN

Here’s an easy, yet effective addition to Airfix’s recent new-tool P-40B, in the form of highly refined exhaust ports. Cast in resin, SBS’s units have hollow ends, so there’s no frustrating drilling required. Simply remove them from the casting block, wash, and paint. Simples!

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Bf 110F By: Eduard Item no: 49833 Price: €25.95 Web: www.eduard.com

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Curtiss P-40B exhaust set By: SBS Model Item no: 48054 Price: €4 Web: www.sbsmodel.com

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

As basic as it gets, these beautifully mastered wheels from Plus Model will be good to go once their casting blocks are removed, and the parts washed to eradicate any release agent. They’re designed for Hasegawa’s 1/72 Neptune kits, re-released recently by said company, and they benefit from superb detail, especially on the hubs.

Builds of the F-4D/E/EJ Phantom, F-89 Scorpion, F-101B Voodoo and F-102 Delta Dagger will all benefit from Eduard’s resin AIM-4D missiles. Four units are provided, although the ‘Deuce’ could carry six in total, therefore another pack will be needed for an F-102 if a full load is desired. These missiles are well detailed, with just slight connections to the casting blocks for easy separation. Photo-etched brass parts for the rear of the rocket motor are supplied, along with stencil decals.

T-65 X-Wing Nozzles By: Green Strawberry Item no: 03317 Price: $14.99 Web: www.greenstrawberry.cz Bandai’s 1/72 X-wing is arguably the best in that scale, but its engines would benefit from this neat resin and photo-etched (PE) brass exhaust nozzle set from Czech firm Green Strawberry. The main units, which are direct replacements for the kit styrene, are supplied as crisply cast resin items, with a choice of two styles of exhaust vanes for the interior. There’s also a mask set, so one can protect the innards while painting the rest of the model.

Eduard’s 1/48 Bf 110s are splendid out of the box, but this dedicated upgrade in photo-etched brass and pre-coloured metal will help elevate one’s build enormously. On hand here are new barrels for the rear cockpit machine guns, cabling for the upper nose guns, parts for the undercarriage bays, gear legs and cockpit glazing. Bomb fins and antennas round off a comprehensive package, but one will need to be adept and rolling and folding this medium.

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PLASTIC SURGERY ASK THE EXPERTS

Quiz AMW’s team of contributors, regarding your own modelling mysteries... AFTERMARKET

Mossie Conversion

Q

“I have just read Key Publishing’s Scale Modelling Mosquito bookazine and wonder if you can assist me. My family has a link in that my uncle, a pre-war carpenter, worked on Mosquitos during his RAF service. From the information I have gathered it appears he was with 140 Squadron in 1944 and probably repaired PR.XVIs. I have Airfix’s 1/72 kit (NF.Mk.II/ FB.Mk.VI/FB.Mk.XVIII) and would like to know if there is any

aftermarket with which to convert it to a PR.XVI, what the colour scheme would have been and if there is a supplier of the correct decals.” Stewart Hurrell, Sudbury, Suffolk AMW’s Assistant Editor, Stu Fone, says: “Airfix’s 1/72 Mosquito is an early fighter-bomber variant, with single-stage Merlin engines, solid nose and fighter-style (flat

TAPE ISSUES

Masking Mishap

Q

“I’m building a kit of the USS New Jersey but left my masking tape on too long. The tape did peel off with help, but it has left the hull

covered in sticky residue. How do I remove this from the hull without damaging the paint?” David Anderson, Livingston, Scotland

windscreen) canopy. For the PR.XVI, you require a bombertype nose, twin-stage Merlins and apertures for the cameras; note you will need Airfix’s ‘paddleblade’ propellers. Fortunately, you’re in luck for the major changes as Pavla produces a neat resin set (C72046) for Tamiya’s 1/72 Mosquito, which supplies a complete bomber/PR forward fuselage with full interior and could be modified to fit. Engines are even simpler, with a choice between Pavla (U72062) or Attack Squadron (ASQ72104) resin components. Falcon Vax Set 17 supplies both nose glazing and an accurate PR.XVI canopy, but the fuselage side windows would need to be created with a product such as Humbrol’s Clearfix. All parts listed are in Scale Modelling Mosquito, as are the two main references used here: Valiant Wings’ de Havilland Mosquito Part 1: Bomber and Reconnaissance, and SAM Publications’ de Havilland Mosquito Modellers’ Datafile.

Stu Fone replies: “David, although you haven’t mentioned exactly which type of masking tape you used, this sort of problem is common with tape designed for decorating purposes, which is tackier than products dedicated to modelling. It’s also prone to degrading quickly (leaving the residue), and the basic solution to this issue (which should also work for other types of masking tape) involves rubbing the affected area gently with either white spirit- or isopropyl alcohol-dampened cotton buds. This method works best with acrylics, as these solutions don’t react with it, but can be used on enamels with the caveat that the paint will need re-touching afterwards.”

Both also provide diagrams on where to cut apertures for the fuselage cameras; these could be glazed with either clear styrene or in the same manner as the fuselage windows. Research indicates 140 Squadron PR.XVIs were finished in overall PRU Blue in 1944, with just roundels, a small fin flash and standard 8in black serial numbers. Suitable sources for the latter would include Kits-World KW72043 and Ventura V7252 (serials), and Almark AKA02 or Xtradecal X72043 (additional B-type roundels). There are photographs online which show a 140 Squadron airframe based in the Netherlands during late 1944, with partial white/black identification stripes (just halfway up the fuselage sides and on the wing undersides).” 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 Sponsored by

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GLOSTER METEOR F.8 KOREA A09184 GLOSTER METEOR F.8 KOREA

The Gloster Meteor was Britain’s first jet fighter and the only Allied jet aircraft to see operational service during the Second World War. The post-war F.8 variant of the Meteor was fitted with new more powerful Derwent turbojet engines and was perhaps the definitive incarnation of this famous aircraft and was the main RAF fighter throughout the 1950s, until superseded by the Hawker Hunter. A stable and reliable aircraft, the Meteor F.8 soon became outclassed as an air superiority fighter, but the effectiveness of the basic design allowed the aircraft to be used in a variety of other roles.

GLOSTER METEOR F.8 Aircraft A77-851 flown by Sergeant George Spaulding Hale, No.77 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, Kimpo, Korea, March 1953

GLOSTER METEOR F.8 Aircraft A77-854, No.77 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, Kimpo, Korea, 1953.

GLOSTER (FOKKER-BUILT) METEOR F.8 No.327 Squadron, Ruiten Vieró (Diamonds Four) display team, Koninklijke Luchtmacht (Royal Netherlands Air Force), Commando Lucht Verdediging (Air Defense Command), Soesterberg Air Base, The Netherlands, 1952. Length 287mm Width 236mm Pieces 190

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