Airfix Model World Issue 089 (April 2018)

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70+ REVIEWS

TEDDY'S TWIN-JET

RALLY LEGEND

New 1/72 Canberra B.2 from S&M Models

Belkits’ 1/24 Ford Escort RS1600

Apr 2018 Issue 89

FIRST LOOK

STUKA! We build Airfix’s new 1/48 Ju 87R-2/B-2

NEW

FOR 2018 NUREMBERG REPORT

£4.60

MACH 3 MARVEL

1/48 MiG-25RBT from ICM

BUNDESWEHR PATTON

Revell’s 1/35 M48A2GA2 MBT

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EDITOR'S DESK WELCOME

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WELCOME TO ISSUE 89

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ithout wishing to sound like a broken record, it’s that time of year when Airfix Model World receives its official copy sales certificate from the Audit Bureau of Circulations… and I’m thrilled to

say we’ve attracted more than 400 new readers in the months JanDecember 2017. This is the fifth year in which we’ve grown our sales, and I must say a very big thank you to assistant editor Stu Fone, designer Tom Bagley and the entire contributor team; most of all, though, I should offer heartfelt thanks to you the readers. There is no ‘magic bullet’ in terms of AMW’s success, but our watchword has always been ‘quality’ in terms of our editorial, the models and how they are photographed, history features and in-box review/news coverage. It’s great fun working with the Airfix/Hornby team, and while there may not be as many new Airfix toolings this year, we still have three exclusive

test-shot builds on the cards. Where an Airfix kit is re-released or re-worked, we’ll take the aftermarket route to enthuse more experienced modellers. Meanwhile, our reporting and building of other brands will forge ahead across all genres, and there is plenty to savour in the coming months. One of the most exciting developments in the past year or so is that of tank kits with full interiors, and this trend is set to continue, with well-appointed 1/35 Panthers from the likes of Takom and Rye Field (Ausf.A and Ausf.G respectively), MiniArt’s samescale Russian T-60 and others. Previously, if one wanted detailed innards for a tank, the only option was boutique aftermarket items, and almost always at walletthumping cost. Manufacturers

deciding to offer detail inside and out are to be commended…it’s just baffling why it took so long! This month’s edition offers new tooling in the shape of S&M Models’ 1/72 Canberra B.2, along with a cutaway drawing and photos of the real aircraft. Inspiration aplenty for modelling one of the RAF’s best (and longest serving) jets. I hope this whets your appetite for a build or two of said kit, but for those who favour larger scales, ICM’s MiG-25RBT and the Airfix Ju 87R-2/B-2 should be just the ticket.

Chris Clifford, Editor [email protected]

FREE GIFT! Subscribe to AMW and claim your free 1/72 Tomahawk Mk.IIB model kit or 5-piece diamond file set. See page 72. Editor: Chris Clifford Assistant Editor: Stu Fone Editor's Secretary: Melissa Smith Contributors this issue: Andy Davies, Jay Blakemore, Alan Price, Ian Grainger, Steve Abbey 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 Advertising Production Manager: Debi McGowan Group Marketing Manager: Martin Steele Marketing Manager: Shaun Binnington Subscriptions and Mail Order: Liz Ward Managing Director: Adrian Cox Executive Chairman: Richard Cox

Key Publishing Ltd, PO Box 100, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1XQ, UK. Distributed by: Seymour Distribution Ltd, 2 Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PP. Tel: 020 7429 4000. Fax: 020 7429 4001. Printed by: Warners (Midland) plc, Bourne. Printed in England (ISSN 1471-0587). Subscriptions: Please refer to main advertisement within the magazine. All applications stating name, address, date to commence and remittance to: Subscriptions Department, Airfix Model World, Key Publishing Ltd, P0 Box 300, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1NA, UK. Telephone/9.00-5.30 Monday-Friday GMT +44 (0) 1780 480404, Fax: +44 (0) 1780 757812 E-Mail: [email protected] Airfix Model World (ISSN: 1471-0587) is published monthly by Key Publishing Ltd, P0 Box 300, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1NA, UK and

distributed in the USA by 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. All items submitted for publication are subject to our terms and conditions. These are regularly updated without prior notice and are freely available from www.keypublishing.com The entire contents of Airfix Model World is © copyright, and no part of it may be reproduced in any form or stored on any form of retrieval system without the prior permission of the publisher.

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

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The average sale for the period Jan – Dec 2017 was 13,149 print and digital copies monthly.

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CONTENTS WHAT'S INSIDE?

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

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

72 Free Gift! Subscribe to Airfix Model World and claim your free 1/72 Tomahawk Mk.IIB model kit or five-piece diamond file set.

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

98 Archive Treasures Our new closing item offers a stunning reference image each month. In this issue we visit 1960s jets in a revealing period study.

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NEW FOR 2018 24 Nuremberg show report

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Airfix Model World

CONTENTS WHAT'S INSIDE?

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FEATURES 14 Intermediate Build – MiG’s Mach 3 Marvel ICM’s hotly awaited 1/48 MiG-25RBT Foxbat-B is assessed and detailed by Andy Davies.

24 Out and About – Bavarian Bonanza Assistant Editor Stu Fone travels to Nuremberg’s Spielwarenmesse Toy Fair to discover what modelling delights are forthcoming for this year.

28 Figure Build – Adversaries in Africa Jay Blakemore combines Mitches Military Models’ 120mm Rorke’s Drift Zulu and 24th Foot Colour Sgt figures, to create a striking historical vignette.

34 Intermediate Build – Desert Dive Bomber Airfix’s 1/48 Stuka has been re-issued as the R-2/B-2; Alan Price reveals the parts changes and adds aftermarket enhancements.

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42 Intermediate Build – Teddy’s Twin-Jet S&M Models’ eagerly anticipated bomber canopy Canberra, the first 1/72 kit of the type for many years, is built by Andy Davies.

50 Cutaway Artwork – Canberra B.2 Annotated drawings reveal the Canberra’s innards; splendid reference for scratch-builders seeking extra refinement for their builds.

52 Photo Focus – ‘Cranberry’ Strikes a Pose Key Publishing’s archive offers a varied and revealing collection of Canberra B.2 family photos.

56 Out and About — Nature’s Marvel Assistant Editor Stu Fone enjoys his first modelling event of the year...the Bolton Model Show.

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58 Intermediate Build – Mäkinen’s Milk Float Belkits’ 1/24 Ford Escort RS1600 Mk.I is built as a 1973 RAC Rally-winning car by Ian Grainger, in tribute to legendary driver Timo Mäkinen.

66 Basic Build – Bundeswehr Patton In tackling Revell’s 1/35 M48A2GA2, Steve Abbey shows how to get the best results straight from the box, with advice on repairing textured surfaces.

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NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES

BREAKING

NEWS

WINGS, ROTORS AND TROOPS

TOOLING NEW and old is gracing Airfix boxes in the coming weeks. Aircraft fans will be pleased to know the 1/72 BAe Hawk T.1 from 2009 makes a return with new RAF decals for a Chivenor-based, green and grey 151 Squadron aircraft from 1983, and an overall black 208 Squadron ‘special’ painted in 2016 (A03085A). Another re-release, this time of more recent plastic, is the 1/72 new-tool Sea King HAR.3 (A04063), which was available in overall yellow as part of a Starter Set. The kit now reappears

with markings for the RAF’s 78 Squadron 75th anniversary (1991), and a white and red Royal Norwegian Air Force example. From the vintage era, the company’s 1/72 B-26B Marauder (A04015A) is back with new decals, and in a move that will delight many, Airfix’s 1/72 soft styrene World War Two soldiers re-emerge, via the following releases: German Infantry, British 8th Army, Afrika Korps, US Marines, US Paratroops and British Infantry. For further details visit: www.airfix.com

CENTENARY CHALLENGE AIRFIX WILL host a sponsored 24-hour modelling marathon as part of nationwide celebrations to mark the Royal Air Force’s 100year anniversary. The Squadron Scramble event is at the Hornby Visitor Centre, Westwood Industrial Estate, Margate, Kent, CT9 4JX and will run from 10.15am on Saturday, March 31 to 10.15am on Sunday, April 1. Local modelling

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groups, Air Cadets and other organisations will endeavour to build as many Airfix 1/72 Spitfires as possible in that time. There will also be model displays and a collection point for the Modelling for Heroes charity. Public access will be from 10am to 4.30pm on March 31. Further information is available from: visitorcentre@ hornby.com or www.airfix.com/ uk-en/hornby-visitor-centre

View more news online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

REALISTIC PANELS THERE’S ANOTHER string to Albion Alloys’ bow, with the release of packs of aluminium sheet, perfect for scratch-builders to replicate metal skins on aircraft, ships and vehicles. The first two sets each offer two 4 x 10in (100 x 250mm) sheets of 6-thou (0.15mm) and 11-thou (0.276mm) thickness aluminium (SM09M and SM10M respectively). Unlike other metal products, aluminium holds its shape once bent, with similar properties to soft lead (but without the health hazards). The applications for this product are vast, with obvious worth in creating battle damage, realistic vehicle/airframe panels and hull plating. Details on these and other accessories are at: www.albionhobbies.com

NEW GUSTAV FROM JAPAN

IT MAY seem odd it took this long for Tamiya to kit one of the world’s most famous combat aircraft…but the wait has been worth it for this all-new Bf 109G-6. Some may question the need for another 1/48 ‘Gustav’, with Eduard’s splendid offerings currently available. Tamiya’s product (#61117), though, is worth considering due to the firm’s famous standards of engineering and fit…and ingenious features. These include not just an entire engine, but the provision of parts for open and close engine cowlings, which can be swapped to taste (via polycaps, magnets and metal washers). The styrene portrays early to lateproduction airframes, with the standard framed hood, optional radio aerials, D/F loop and head armour. Rustsatze R6 underwing gun pods and a centreline fuel tank (with alternative lower halves) are provided, as is a full nose gun bay,

and one can also build a tropical version courtesy of the correct air intake filter and umbrella brackets. Self-adhesive canopy masks are present too. It is worth noting that due to the parts breakdown, other Bf 109 variants may be forthcoming from Tamiya, and let’s face it…why go to the trouble and expense of such classy tooling, simply to offer one version? Three colour schemes represent well-known Luftwaffe units on different fronts, and the options are: • Yellow 1 + I, 9./JG 54, February 1944 • White 9 + I, Emil Clade, 7./JG 27, Crete, December 1943 • Yellow 1 + wavy line, 9./JG 52, Novo-Zaporozhye, October 1943 This is a welcome release from Tamiya and look out for a build article in AMW soon. For images of the parts runners and decals, visit: www.airfixmodelworld.com

TANK WITH A NICKNAME

DRAGON’S LATEST 1/35 Tiger I kit is one with a difference, as it reproduces a famous German tank involved in the battles of Kharkov and Khursk in 1943. Assigned to 8./SS Pz.Rgt.2 and eventually wearing turret number S34, this vehicle also gained a nickname, ‘TiKi’... perhaps the name of a crew member’s girlfriend or wife, or a contraction of ‘Tiger Kind’ (Tiger Child). Dragon’s release (6885) tweaks its Tiger I Early Production runners with a new turret bin, starter handle, gun mantlet and other fittings as

carried on Das Reich Division Tigers. DS-Styrene tracks are included, along with a photoetched brass fret for the engine grilles. Markings are supplied for the tank at four points in its

service, from during Kharkov (without the nickname), through two turret number changes, to its final incarnation at Kursk. More details are at: www.hobbyco.net

WARTHOGS AND PELICANS

HALO COMPUTER game fans will need no introduction to the iconic United Nations Space Command (UNSC) Warthog and USNC Pelican, which Revell has released as snap-together kits. Each comprises a combination of coloured and pre-painted styrene components, with

two or more figures, and light and sound effects. While the latter will undoubtedly attract youngsters, the moulded detail is of sufficient quality to give adult modellers sufficient scope for embellishment, especially to replicate these machines’ war-weary appearance from the game. The 1/32 United Nations Space Command (UNSC) Warthog (1766) comprises 53 styrene parts (including three multi-pose figures) and a small sheet of stickers. It offers a working suspension, wheels, rotatable gun turret and a series of in-game sounds to accompany the

light-up machine gun. The larger 1/100 UNSC Pelican (1767) has 43 components, and features a lit cockpit and thrusters, associated sounds, rotating wings, an opening rear hatch and a reasonably well-detailed interior. More details are at: www/revell. de/en

NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES

DETAILED HEAVY PANZER HOMING ALL THE WAY

ICM’s basic 1/35 King Tiger was a great value mid-range offering; now it’s even more so with the addition of a comprehensive interior. Its Pz.Kpfw.VI Ausf.B King Tiger Late Production (35364) might not have ‘full’ innards as described on the box, but it’s not far from it, offering seven new runners to complement the existing three, plus four more for the individuallink tracks (replacing the original one-piece vinyl items). This means there’s a busy engine compartment, main gun breech mechanism, full 68-round 8.8cm ammunition load, gearbox, transmission and

a new three-piece gun barrel (with solid centre section to avoid a seam). Commander, gunner, loader and driver positions are well appointed, although the radio operator’s section is, sadly, empty. All parts are well moulded, with crisp features and excellent weld seams. Considering its price there’s much to enjoy here, and with one or two hatches closed, the lack of radio operator’s station won’t be visible. Four schemes are included, for s.Pz.Abt 501 and 503 machines, with another from the s.Pz.Abt Feldherrnhalle. For more information, visit: www.icm.com.ua

MODELLING IS a cyclical hobby, with fads coming and going, and surface-to-air missiles are back in vogue…with AFV Club being the latest company to join the throng with its MIM-23 Hawk. This 1/35 offering (AF35283) provides sufficient parts on its eight styrene runners for a single towed triple-launcher unit, including a small photoetched brass fret, two vinyl tyres and a length of flexible tube.

CHANGING GEAR

WELL KNOWN for its paint sets for military subjects, AK Interactive has released the first items in what promises to be a

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busy cars and civil vehicle range. The first is a lavishly illustrated volume on building, painting and weathering techniques for

View more news online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

cars and trucks, and while most attention is paid to the former, the content is equally applicable to the latter. All aspects are covered in depth; materials, preparation, construction (and repairs), painting and finishing, while showcasing AK’s varied product range. Separately, the Black Interiors and Cream White Paint Set (AK9010) comprises six 17ml bottles of AK’s acrylic paint; AK092 Cremeweiss, AK723 Dust, AK778 Fresh Timber, AK164 Light Base, AK704 Middle Grey and AK735 Flat Black. Finally, there is Two Component Ultra Gloss Varnish (AK9040), which appears similar in application to Zero Paints’ 2-pack system. Thinner and Component 1 are supplied in 60ml glass bottles, with Component 2 in a 20ml container and two 5ml syringes, to be used when combining the liquids. Clear instructions are supplied, along with guidelines for setting times. More information on these and other items is at www.ak-interactive.com

This is a superbly detailed and well-designed kit, which can be configured in deployed or transport configuration; AFV Club has taken great pains to ensure accuracy, notably on the missile and trailer stencils. There are four schemes, each in a different overall colour, depicting US Marine Corps, US Army, South Korean or Israeli Air Force launchers. Further information is at: www.pocketbond.co.uk

INSTANT INSTRUMENTS

EDUARD DELIGHTED many with the announcement of its new 1/48 and 1/32 Löök series of accessories. Recreating accurate replicas of instrument panels, with their many dials, placards and stencils can be challenging, but these new resin and PE products remove most of the difficulty. Löök’s main elements are the perfectly cast, pre-painted and glazed instrument panels, designed as drop-in replacements for kit parts; the items for Revell’s 1/32 P-51D Mustang are shown here. As a bonus, there are pre-painted seatbelts, to add that finishing touch to a cockpit. Check www.eduard.com for updates, and reviews in AMW.

CULT STYLING

and there are metal springs, poly-caps and super-low-profile rubber tyres. As part of the re-styling, LW enlarged the wheel arches and Aoshima provides templates (and new arches), so modellers can do the same. There’s all the highfidelity detail one expects from Aoshima, in areas such as the new dashboard/facia and suspension, and masks for the glazing are supplied. For further details, visit: www.aoshima-bk.co.jp

SUPERCAR tuner/styler Liberty Walk is renowned for its custom transformations of thoroughbred sport autos. Thankfully for car modellers, the firm has supported Japan's Aoshima to bring us this Liberty Walk Nissan R35 GT-R. The 1/24 kit is based on the firm’s standard GT-R, and offers 14 styrene runners in black, white, chrome and clear red,

MARITIME ROYALTY

SHIP MODELLERS are in for a treat with Flyhawk’s jawdropping 1/700 HMS Prince of Wales, regardless of whether Wales one selects the standard or deluxe versions. The latter (FH1117S) is a limitededition product, so in addition to the ‘basic’ 35 styrene runners, separate upper/lower hull halves and superstructure elements, there’s a comprehensive photo-etched (PE) brass update set (available separately as FH710031), turned brass barrels and 90 resin deck vents. There’s a staggering level of detail on the styrene parts, including a ten-piece Supermarine Walrus, three-part octuple pom-poms and integrally moulded deck

fittings. The PE elevates it to a masterpiece, with new cranes and radar housings besides the usual railings, radars, ladders, mast and myriad deck fittings. The ship is configured for December 1941, when it and HMS Repulse were sunk by Japanese Navy aircraft, and

the painting guide includes accurate Royal Navy colours. Flyhawk has released a deck masking set (FH710030) and self-adhesive laser-cut wooden decking (FH710029). For more on these and other products by the firm, visit: www.flyhawkmodel.com

NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES

ALL-NEW HEINKEL TWIN

FOR YEARS, the only 1/48 He 111s were the re-boxed and gracefully ageing Revell-Monogram offerings, so ICM’s stunning H-3 variant is a most welcome release. It comprises eight styrene runners, all moulded to very high standards; even the ejector pin marks are relatively small, and positioned away from raised relief. The latter is a double blessing as the interior is packed with detail, from the busy bomb bay (with accurate bomb cells and SC 250s), to the well-appointed cockpit/navigator/bombardier and radio operator’s compartments. As with its Ju 88, there are complete

engines (each Jumo 211 comprising more than 20 pieces), and these can be displayed thanks to separate cowling panels. Other options include open/closed bomb bay and entrance hatch and a choice of MG 15 or MG FF defensive armament (including separate glazing panels for each). The decals are delightful, with good colour density (notably the white sections) and perfect register. Four schemes are offered, three for Western Front airframes, and a single Eastern Front machine, all clad in standard RLM 65/70/71 splinter camouflage. For more information, visit: www.icm.com.ua

CLASSIC ROTORCRAFT

HELICOPTER SPECIALIST Whirlybird released its first multimedia 1/72 Westland Whirlwind kit in 2015, and we built it in AMW’s September issue that year. The mostly resin kit portrayed the HAR.10, but now the firm has released an HAR.9 (#WPX72052) with similar main components, and white metal/photo-etched brass. The detail is impressive, and this boxing offers markings for XL875/12, the search and rescue/ship’s flight asset of RNAS

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Lee-on-Solent (HMS Daedalus). In RAF Blue Grey and Fluorescent Red Orange, it’s an attractive beast, which also benefits from ‘drooped’ rotor blades, two sets of vacform glazing, a well-appointed cockpit and cabin (the later with bulkheads and ‘web’ seats), and optional flotation ‘doughnuts’ for the undercarriage. The decals are printed beautifully too. For more details visit: www.whirlybirdmodels.com

View more news online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

WALKING ARMOUR

CHINESE FIRM Modelcollect has taken the concept of German ‘paper panzer’ projects to its limit, with its Fist of War 1/72 four-and six-legged walkers based on experimental and prototype tank designs. Its E75 Heavy Panzer (UA72107) is a clever blend of standard E75 kit parts, with a new main hull, ‘Kugelblitz’ turret (more common as an anti-aircraft weapon...think Panzer IV) for the underside, and four armoured legs. There are eight styrene runners, and the moulding is superb, with crisp detail devoid of flash. The

standout item is the Kugelblitz turret, as the lower half has integrally moulded cannon barrels, with muzzle brake detail equal to that of larger scales. Two schemes are suggested (there is a generic decal sheet), offering differing camouflage and a choice between Panzer Grey or primer red-coloured leg outers. It will make for a very different model or diorama, and Modelcollect is to be commended for letting its imagination run riot as this will be fun to build. More details are available at: www. modelcollect.com

WEST COAST KITTIES E-BOOK PUBLISHER Detail & Scale has followed its examination of US Navy Atlantic Fleet F-14s with a study of Pacific Tomcats. Bert Kinzey’s company seems to have found its feet in the digital world, after so many years publishing traditional (and excellent) reference works. This second F-14 product only confirms the fact…and offers many more pages than a ‘paper’ equivalent. After a basic introduction, one is treated to chapters such as Stencils & Standard Markings (which offers superb illustrations of maintenance/ warning data), and US Navy Pacific Fleet Squadrons…a large, unit-byunit guide to all frontline Pacific Fleet F-14 operators, with famous names; VF-1 ‘Wolfpack’, VF-51 ‘Screaming Eagles’ and VF-213 ‘Blacklions’ to name but a few. The photography is magnificent and supported by detailed captions and unit badge artwork, but there is an obvious shift from relying on colour profile artwork, with just one or

two examples featuring. Reserve Tomcat units VF-301 and VF-302 are included, as are adversary/ aggressor aircraft (Top Gun), Naval Strike & Air Warfare Center, and test/evaluation machines. With 442 dedicated pages, this is an all-encompassing reference tool for modellers who love the F-14 in various guises. Visit: www. detailandscale.com for more details.

TWO YOUNG LIONS

AVANTE GARDE Model Kits has corrected its 1/48 IAI C2/ C7 Kfir…and released a brandnew 1/72 tooling of this famous Mirage V derivative. The quarter-scale ‘lion cub’ (AMK’s firm’s first kit) was criticised on its appearance in 2013 for having an incorrect fuselage shape, but the responsive Macau-based manufacturer has created a new, accurate fuselage and given fresh decal options for Sri Lanka, Colombia, Ecuador and Israel…the latter’s airframe wearing ‘old school’ sand, brown and green

camouflage (Arava Guardians squadron). Kit 88001A also offers markings for the US civilian adversary company ATAC, as well as the AN/ALQ-

67 ‘Bulwinkle’ ECM and SAIP (TACTS) training pods carried by the Aggressor. Other stores comprise GBU-12 and Griffin laser-guided bombs, Mk.82s, and Python missiles. Fans of 1/72 are not ignored either, as the all-new kit in this scale (86002), echoes much of its larger counterpart, but offers a second Israeli livery, this being for a low-vis grey C2. Oddly, though, while the ATAC livery is also present, AMK does not provide the Bulwinkle/TACTS pods for said aircraft. Both kits, though, do offer alternative ejection seats to reflect the relevant time periods. For further details visit: www.amkhobby.com

SUPER-SIZED SPEEDBOAT

ITALERI’S 1/35 S-100 was well received, but with a few minor tweaks, its hard-working predecessor, the S-38 type, is now available. This impressive 33⅓in (99.9cm)-long kit comprises nine styrene runners, four of which are new; four come from the S-100 release (along with the hull/main deck), while the final frame supplies a 4cm Bofors (FlaK 28) from the same firm’s PT Conversion

Set (5617). A large PE fret, two thicknesses of thread, acetate sheet (for glazing) and assorted nuts and bolts complete the package. There’s much to savour, from the comprehensive wheelhouse/ radio room to the excellent open bridge and revised torpedo launch control points. While the moulding standard is generally high, there is disparity between new and old parts, with the latter exhibiting

slightly softer features. Three schemes are offered; all in the standard Schnellbootweiss, Schiffsbodenfarbe Rot and Schlickgrau 58 livery, with two English Channel vessels (S-46 and S-105) and one Black Sea craft (S-51). Overall this is a spectacular package, offering plenty of refinement for most modellers, but still allowing scope for super-detailers. More details are available at: www.hobbyco.net

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

Shropshire Model Show Date:

April 8

Hosts:

Shropshire Scale Modellers

Address: RAF Museum Cosford, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 8UP

April 1

100th Anniversary of RAF – Open Cockpits Day Hosts: Newark Air Museum Address: Drove Lane, Winthorpe, Newark, Notts, NG24 2NY Times: 10am-5pm Prices: Adults £9, over-65s £8, children £4.50, under-5s free E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.newarkairmuseum.org

7 Welling 2018 Hosts: Welling Model Club Address: Falconwood Community Centre, The Green, Welling, Kent, DA1 2PG Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Adults £2 E-mail: [email protected] Web: TBC

7 IPMS West Suffolk Open Day Hosts: IPMS West Suffolk Address: Odd Fellows Hall, Whiting Street, Bury St.Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1NX Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Free E-mail: [email protected] Web: IPMS West Suffolk (Facebook)

Times:

10am-4pm

Prices:

Free

Email:

[email protected]

Web:

www.shropmodels.org.uk

7-8 Modellexpo 08 – Open 2018 Hosts: IPMS Stockholm Address: Skytteholmsskolan, Ankdammsgaten 14-16, Solna, Sweden Times: Sat 12-4pm, Sun 10am-3pm Prices: Adults SEK 80, IPMS members and under-15s free E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ipmsstockholm.se

21 Hosts:

Model Classic 2018 IPMS North Virginia Modellers Address: Fairfax High School, 3501 Rebel Run, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA Times: 9am-4pm Prices: Adults US $8, under-17s free E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.novaipms.org

22 Hosts:

14 Hosts:

21-22 Hosts:

Moson Model Show Mosonmagyaróvár Modelling Club Address: UFM Aréna, Városi Sportcsarnok, Mosonmagyaróvár, Gorkij út 1 Times: Sat 8am-7pm, Sun 7am-5pm Prices: Free E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.mosonshow.hu

29 15th Modellbaufreunde-Siegen Hosts: Modellbaufreunde-Siegen Address: Festhalle Wilnsdorf, Rathausstrasse 9, D-57234 Wilnsdorf, Germany Times: 10am-5pm Prices: Adults €2, under-12s free E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.modellbaufreunde-siegen.de

21-22

28-29

Scale Model Exhibition IPMS Dorset and Poole Vikings Model Club Address: Parkstone Grammar School, Sopers Lane, Poole, BH17 7EP Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Adults £3.50, children £1 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.poolevikingsblog. wordpress.com

14 Hosts:

Sword and Lance 2018 Darlington Military Modelling Society Address: Darlington College, Haughton Road, Darlington, DL1 1DR Times: 9.30am-4.30pm Prices: TBC E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.swordandlance.co.uk

3rd Exposition Maquettes Et Miniatures Hosts: M54S Address: Salle Omnisports, Saulxures les Nancy, France Times: Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm Prices: Adults €2, concessions €1, under-12s free E-mail: [email protected] Web: 3éme Exposition Maquette et Miniatures de Saulxures les Nancy (Facebook)

Model Kraft 2018 Milton Keynes Scale Model Club Address: Stantonbury Leisure Centre, Milton Keynes, MK14 6BN Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Adults £5, seniors £3, children free E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.mksmc.co.uk

Scottish National Scale Model Show Hosts: Scottish National Scale Model Show Team Address: Dewars Centre, Glover Street, Perth PH2 OTH Times: Sat 10am-5pm Sun 10am-4pm Prices: Adult £8 (one day) or £12 (two day), juniors £2 per day E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.scotnats.org

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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12/01/2018 09:18

INTERMEDIATE BUILD MiG-25RBT

With ICM having released its muchanticipated MiG-25RBT Foxbat-B, Andy Davies finds out exactly what’s on offer

Eduard’s exterior set provided fine surface details for areas such as the engine intake inlet ramps, adding definition to the lacklustre kit parts.

M

iG’s Foxbat was a response to the advanced aircraft designs in the US at the time, principally the Mach 3-capable Lockheed A-12 and North American XB-70. The first MiG-25 prototype flew in 1964; it entered service in 1970 and production ceased in 1984 after 1,190 aircraft had been built. The highly capable reconnaissance versions were upgraded throughout the aircraft’s long career, with the RBT variant being an enhanced version of the basic RB aircraft.

MiG master

 A major error with the kit concerned the reconnaissance nose (ICM’s, bottom). The prominent, bulged sensor fairing, and subtle angle change mid-way along the upper line of the nose profile, were absent. Revell’s re-issue of the kit seems to have corrected this, however, Cold War Studio’s correction set (top) was still the best option.

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Airfix Model World

The large top-opening box contained 166 parts supplied on seven grey (and one clear) styrene runners, along with two decal sheets, comprehensive instructions and a decal placement guide. Unfortunately, the runners were all

placed in a single resealable plastic bag, although thankfully the clear parts were packed separately. ICM’s mouldings were crisp and flashfree, and while there were several ejector pin marks present, just those in the engine intakes needed to be addressed. Detail levels were

INTERMEDIATE BUILD MiG-25RBT

good and well rendered, though oddly a few of the panel lines seemed to end erroneously. The 24-page instructions included full-colour decal and stencil placement guides. Markings for four RBTs were included, two Russian, one Iraqi and a Libyan example, plus a slightly smaller sheet for the stencils…but more on that later.

Turquoise terror

MODEL SPEC

The cockpit as provided contained all necessary detail for the RBT version; the instrument panel was slightly unusual, in that it consisted of a top-layer console with cut-outs, and a clear backing plate with bezels, which protruded through the holes. No instrument decals were included, though it appears this has been amended in Revell’s MiG-25RBT re-issue in decal form. Eduard’s photo-etched MiG-25RBT Foxbat B By:

ICM

Stock Code:

48901

Scale:

1/48

Price:

£49.99

Available from: www.icm.com.ua

(PE) metal set, 49815 MiG-25RBT Interior, was used to enhance the cockpit, while 49816 MiG-25RBT Seat Belts STEEL were used for the KM-1M ejection seat. The cockpit comprised a floor, rear bulkhead, rudder bars, detailed sidewalls and a separate engine control and throttle quadrant. Although the details were reasonable, Eduard’s pre-painted PE enhanced the kit parts greatly and was used in this build. The KM-1M seat was moulded neatly, and included a neat representation of the quilted back cushion. At this stage, PE parts for the cockpit sills and canopy framing were primed and attached prior to painting. Any fan of Soviet aircraft will know Foxbat cockpits were finished in the lurid turquoise colour favoured by Soviet manufacturers of the time (apparently it was supposed to have a calming effect on the aircrew). To that end, AKAN 73006 Emerald Green (faded) was used as a starting point, though this did appear to be too green for MiG aircraft, so Tamiya X-14 Sky Blue was added to represent the true shade more accurately (Eduard’s pre-painted PE was also adjusted to match this hue) which included the interior of the canopy and windshield. The forward fuselage was designed to incorporate the nose undercarriage bay, which also included appropriate ribbing and panel detail. Current kitdesign ethos often demands the undercarriage to be added at an early stage in construction, and this Foxbat was no exception. Fortunately, with forward planning, the main gear legs could be attached at the end of the build, making life much easier. However, a major issue concerned the accuracy and shape of the RBT’s reconnaissance nose. As provided, the kit item is more

• 72 Red, Soviet Air Force, late 1980s • 46 Red, 47th GRAP, Russian Air Force, May 2001 • Iraqi Air Force, late 1980s • Libyan Air Force, 2000s

 The styrene camera pack part fitted seamlessly into the Cold War Studio nose. As well as adding the sensor fairing and kinked upper profile, the replacement nose also included revised (and accurate) panel detail.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 15

INTERMEDIATE BUILD MiG-25RBT

The engine intake tunnels were too narrow, and replacements were required. Tubes of the correct diameter were fabricated from lengths of 2.5cm UPVC conduit tubing and 1mm plastic card, moulded to the shape of the tunnel roofs.

 Russian cockpit turquoise was achieved by mixing AKAN Emerald Green (faded) with a small amount of Tamiya X-14 Sky Blue.

representative of an earlier MiG25R sub-type, as the prominent underside sensor bulge was missing, and the upper nose profile was incorrect – as it should include a marked kink mid-way along its length. Fortunately, aftermarket company Cold War Studio has come to the modeller’s aid, with a resin correction and replacement set (CWS48006 MiG-25 RBT), which thankfully addressed the issues. The parts were cast beautifully, and included

replacement aerials, a clear acetate instrument dial sheet and masks for dielectric panels; also included were camera ports that surrounded the nose. This set was a direct replacement for the kit parts and fitted perfectly to the forward fuselage, with no modifications needed.

Heavy breather

 While the undercarriage doors had good surface detail, Eduard’s ED48918 Exterior set provided extra enhancements, which included rivet and hinge line detail.

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Airfix Model World

The modular system began with the centre section of the airframe. As the Foxbat’s was basically a long, oblong box, the kit parts consisted of upper and lower fuselage panels, frontand rear-profiled frames and two wheel bays. The assembled intake tunnels were fitted into the forward frame, while the rearmost example acted as a location point for the fuselage sidewalls. While the intake tunnels had good depth, they were unfortunately of the wrong diameter. It was decided to enlarge them with 1mm plastic card and 1in (2.5cm) UPVC conduit tubing. The latter was cut into 2.5cm lengths and the interiors airbrushed with Alclad ALC-119 Airframe Aluminium. The kit provided under-scale engine compressor facings, so these were replaced with larger alternatives from the scrap box. Once painted, the facings were attached to the ends of the tubes and glued to the fuselage floor, with 4mm scrap

resin spacers to hold them at the correct height. Plastic card of 1mm thickness was used to infill areas between the intake throats and the tubes, and after filling and sanding, were painted Airframe Aluminium and ALC-102 Duralumin. Do remember to fit the two tree-like airflow stabilisers at this stage, as attaching them later would be all but impossible. With the intakes in place, the upper fuselage section was glued to the frames.

Big-bore exhaust MiG-25 jet nozzles were enormous, complex affairs and ICM managed to capture them well, the units comprising 24 parts each, with the afterburner spray rings being moulded particularly well. These and the inner variable nozzles were treated in a green antiheat paint and for this, 73060 Green was used and shaded with Abteilung502 ABT006 Burnt

Umber, and ABT510 Starship Filth washes. Exhaust fan facings received ALC-103 Dark Aluminium with a light dusting of AMMO-MIG PO3 Smoke, while the ribbed interior walls were painted with XF-78 Wooden Deck Tan, and weathered via ABT007 Raw Umber blended with ABT112 Matt Effect Thinner. The outer petals and inner faces were painted ALC-

INTERMEDIATE BUILD MiG-25RBT

eduArd AftermArket The following Eduard sets were used to embellish this build: • MiG-25RBT interior 49815 • MiG-25RBT exterior 48918 • MiG-25RBT seat belts STEEL 49816

111 Magnesium and highlighted with Dark Aluminium. Further weathering with pastels would be applied once main painting had been completed. It was then decided to glue the exhaust nozzles to the fuselage prior to painting, to ensure no gaps were present, as per the real aircraft, which fitted flush to the fuselage. These were masked, primed and painted prior to the fuselage receiving its top colour.

Change of attitude The wheel wells were generally well designed, though a little simplified...particularly at the

rear end, presumably to provide a stronger location point for the main undercarriage legs. Real aircraft had a great deal of plumbing in these areas, which could be seen easily on the model with the doors open. Lead wire from Little Cars was used in concert with yellow plastic-coated telephone wire, and thin strips of Bare-Metal Foil. Once in place, the bays were washed with ABT006 Burnt Umber and Starship Filth, blended with Matt Effect Thinner. The undercarriage legs had sufficient detail, but would benefit from extra hydraulic brake lines, wires and cables, and these were  Engine nozzle and afterburner parts were painted with Alclad Duralumin and Titanium, and soot added with AMMO-MIG Black pastel powder. The unique green afterburner parts received 73060 Green (faded) and AK Interactive AK2039 Kerosene Leaks and Stains.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 17

INTERMEDIATE BUILD MiG-25RBT

It was decided to glue the exhausts onto the airframe and fill any small gaps before painting began, to ensure they fitted seamlessly as seen on the real aircraft.

 With the jet nozzles and afterburners in position, the separate inner and outer sections of the nozzle petals were added. Once assembled and painted, the unit could be slipped into the rear fuselage.

 Another issue concerned the upper intake lip extensions; the shape and angles of the upper section were incorrect. Two styles of intake existed, one with extended ramp lips and one without, the selected aircraft ‘45 Red’ required the lips to be removed.

 The undercarriage bays were well moulded, although they lacked internal plumbing detail. This was added via a mixture of lead wire and yellow plastic-coated telephone wire.

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Airfix Model World

fashioned from different diameters of lead wire. Hose clamps were fashioned from 0.5mm strips of Bare-Metal foil, and screws made from scrap plastic rod. The nose gear was treated in the same way. While researching the aircraft and studying completed ICM Foxbat models on Internet forums, it became apparent the stance of the model appeared incorrect. Its fuselage seemed to be parallel with the ground line, almost standing on tip-toes, whereas most RBTs (particularly when toting the heavy 1,161gal [5,280lit] centreline tank), were noticeably tail-heavy, with the bottom of the tank only 12in (30cm) or so from the ground. Upon studying the model parts in conjunction with online walk-round images, it appeared that, as with many manufacturers, ICM had moulded the gear leg oleo struts in an unloaded configuration, as opposed to the loaded/compressed condition that fully fuelled aircraft adopted. The simplest method of correcting this was to remove the small oleo strut, cut and separate the ‘knuckle’ joint, and re-glue into the new position with cyanoacrylate (CA) or epoxy glue. Care was needed to position the axles, so they aligned with

the fuselage sides, ensuring the wheels would be set at the correct angle. This, in turn, allowed the wheels to sit farther out from the fuselage sides, which portrayed the resting Foxbat’s squat appearance more accurately. This repositioning resulted in extra pressure being exerted on the main undercarriage legs, due to being positioned further aft. To prevent weakness, 1mm holes were drilled in the upper and lower legs, and brass rods fitted with 10-second CA to provide extra strength. The nose gear suffered from the same issue, due to the strengthening rod that ran from the rear of the leg to the mudguard being moulded in the wrong position. This was removed, the oleo reduced in length by 1mm and the

INTERMEDIATE BUILD MiG-25RBT

assumed these were chosen to more easily align the large single wheels, but it just led to a sloppy fit. To correct this, the conical stubs were covered with short ABS plastic sleeves and these, while fitting tightly, located perfectly into the wheel mounting holes... ensuring the wheels stayed put once the model was placed on its undercarriage. In addition, the wheels were canted outwards slightly, placing even more pressure on the undercarriage;

 The model appeared to sit at an incorrect angle. After studying reference images, it was decided to alter the rake of the main undercarriage legs and re-position them. The length of the nose gear oleo extension jack was also reduced, to achieve the correct stance.

assembly rotated back slightly... and fixed permanently with CA. A replacement strut was made from 2mm plastic rod and re-fitted in the correct position, which improved the appearance and accuracy of the parts greatly. The next problem was to fit the main gear legs into the wheel wells, without damaging the newly modified parts. These were intended to be installed at an early stage, and weren’t really designed to be fitted later. To simplify the process, it was found that not gluing the fuselage walls to the wheel well sides

was applied to the mounting points on the legs and, following a few nerve-wracking moments, the parts clipped into place with a satisfying click. The next problem concerned ICM’s unusual decision to use conical axle stubs, instead of regular cylindrical items. It was

Flightcraft Soviet Spyplanes of the Cold War, by Yefim Gordon and Dmitriy Komissarov, (Pen & Sword), ISBN: 978-1-78159-285-4 Red Star Volume 34, MiG-25 Foxbat, Guardian of the Soviet Borders, by Yefim Gordon, ISBN: 978-1-85780-259-7

Late MiG-25 paintwork was often weather-worn. To replicate this, preshading was applied with a heavily thinned mix of Tamiya Dark Sea Grey. Random patches were also sprayed across all surfaces. Following misted coats of AKAN Light Grey, certain panels were lightened with white added to the base colour. New Ware’s NWAM0087 MiG-25RBT Expert set was used to mask the dielectric and anti-glare panels. These were painted with AKAN Radiotransparent Grey, and fading was achieved with Tamiya NATO Black and Medium Sea Grey.

allowed enough movement, to allow the parts to be rotated into place carefully. The ideal tool for this task was a pair of small angled tweezers, with rubber protection sleeves. Before being fitted, CA www.airfixmodelworld.com 19

INTERMEDIATE BUILD MiG-25RBT

however, although these modifications provided a few anxious moments, the end result was worth it.

Grey matter The RBT variant wore a uniform scheme that started life as slightly glossy medium grey but faded quickly, in some cases to matt light grey. This example was to be finished somewhere in between. The model was primed with ALC-302 Grey Primer/Microfiller and the surface polished with Micro-Mesh cloth ranging from 6,000 to 12,000-grade. Preshading followed via heavily thinned Mr. Hobby H75 Dark Sea Grey along panel lines, and a mixture of XF-64 Red Brown mixed with XF-53 Neutral Grey, applied randomly across the airframe. AKAN 73059 Grey (faded) for MiG-25/31 was applied in thinned, misted coats, which allowed the pre-shade to show through sporadically. After six or seven coats, selected panels were masked according to images of the intended subject, ‘45 Red’ and highlights/shadows were applied via 73146 Radiotransparent White and 73066 Gray-Navy Blue

 Almost half the length of the MiG-25’s underside was left in bare metal. A mixture of Alclad Duralumin and Dark Aluminium, with AK Interactive’s Xtreme Metal Titanium, was applied over the area to add tonal variation.

 Often overlooked is the fact that markings fade along with the paintwork. A heavily thinned mix of the base grey was misted over all insignia and stencils, at very low air pressure; around 10psi (0.7 bar).

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Airfix Model World

 Two missing fuel dump pipes were added from stretched sprue, and fitted between the huge exhaust nozzles.

(faded), mixed with the grey base colour. Appropriate masking was aided by a bespoke set from New Ware, which offered masks for the wheels, dielectric panels and glazing Rearmost sections of the underside, surrounding the engine bays, were left in natural metal, and exhibited multiple shades that needed to be applied. These panels were masked and polished until a blemish-free surface was achieved. Then, ALC-305 Gloss Black Base was applied and polished, before Duralumin was sprayed over the area, followed by masking and misted Dark Aluminium. Thinned AK Interactive AK669 Xtreme Metal Titanium was then airbrushed lightly, which resulted in a realistic heat-worn hue. Following this, ABT006 Burnt Umber was applied to the upper edges of each panel and blended vertically, with cotton buds soaked in Matt Effect Thinner. This was followed by AMMO-MIG weathering products, including A.MIG-1203 Streaking Grime, 1407 Engine Grime and 3007 Dark

INTERMEDIATE BUILD MiG-25RBT

Earth, blended with Matt Effect Thinner. Sooty deposits were added with A.MIG-3001 Black pastel powder.

Stencils, stencils... everywhere! ICM included markings for four different aircraft, including two Russian Air Force machines, along with Iraqi and Libyan Air Force

examples. To accompany the main decal sheet, a smaller item was included and contained many stencils found on the aircraft.

However, they were printed in red and blue, whereas they should have been red and black as appropriate for this particular RBT. It would appear, though, this issue has now been corrected with Revell’s re-issue of the kit. A copy of the Revell decals was obtained, and used to depict aircraft 45 Red. To accompany this, the excellent and comprehensive Begemot 48-011 MiG-25 Foxbat Full Stencil sheet was also sourced. After studying photographs of 45 Red, it became evident many

replaced with lengths of stretched sprue. While the kit provided the four on the fin and rudder, those fitted to the wing tip and tailplane trailing edges were omitted and duly fitted. Also missing were the aileron actuators mounted above and below the wings, and these were fabricated from plastic card and fuse-wire. A small aerial attached to the top of the fuselage spine was also missing, and this too was added from scrap. Various pitots, angle-of-attack vanes and an under-nose blade aerial were

of the stencils missing from the kit sheet were catered for in the Begemot set, along with a detailed placement guide. Final detailing included items such as the fin-mounted static wicks which, as provided in the kit, were overly thick, so were

attached, including a superb aftermarket nose pitot by Master; this was a work of art and, due to clever design, could be removed when the model was in transit (thus preventing possible damage to the delicate parts). Arguably the most detailed part of the

Eduard (www.eduard.com) Cold War Studio (www.coldwarstudio.com) AKAN paints (www.coastalcraftmodels.uk.com) AMMO-MIG (www.migjiminez.com) Mr. Hobby paints (www.albionhobbies.com) Tamiya paints (www.hobbyco.net) AK Interactive (www.ak-interactive.com) Abteilung502 paints (www.abteilung502.com) Begemot decals (www.begemotdecals.ru) Gator’s Grip ‘Thin Blend’ PVA glue (www.gatorsmask.com) Little-Cars lenses (www.modellingtools.co.uk) Bare-Metal Foil (www.bare-metal.com) New Ware (www.mek.kosmo.cz) Alclad II (www.alclad2.com) Master (www.master-model.pl) Citadel Paints (www.games-workshop.com) Micro-mesh (www.gcabrasives.co.uk)

A selection of weathering products from AMMO-MIG was used to replicate the heavily weathered appearance, often seen on operational Foxbats.  Once the stencils, decals and special markings were weathered appropriately, the model received several light coats of Alclad Klear Kote Matt. This varnish didn’t dry completely matt, but left a subtle, realistic sheen.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 21

INTERMEDIATE BUILD MiG-25RBT

build concerned the inner surface of the canopy; because it swung to the side, the interior was highly visible and required much extra detailing. Eduard provided the framing in its interior set, while a piece of 1mm plastic card was scored in a diamond pattern and painted with H303 Green, to replicate quilting. Appropriate mirrors came via Eduard’s 48409 Mirrors set. To replicate the sealant around the canopy and windscreen, thin strips of clear decal sheet were cut and painted pink (a 50/50 mix of Citadel Layer GW-2246 Tuskor Fur and AKAN 73136 MK-7 White). Reflective landing light lenses under the nose, and beneath the intakes (from LittleCars) added extra authenticity.

Mission accomplished Finally, a quarter-scale model of a reconnaissance Foxbat. This kit was an absolute pleasure to build, despite minor accuracy issues,

and ICM is to be congratulated on listening to modellers (and for subsequently releasing the RB version with the necessary corrections). Revell’s re-issue also addresses faults of the initial

release, such as the nose shape and appropriate decals. The model cannot be recommended highly enough to all fans of Soviet ‘heavy metal’. Hopefully, along with further versions from ICM and

the promise of another kit from AMK, we will see interceptor versions in the future.

For real-aircraft photos, visit: airfixmodelworld.com

The main wheel axles were conical rather than cylindrical, which led to a loose fit. Short lengths of 2mm plastic tube were fitted over these, and secured with CA.

 To add tonal variation, AMMO-MIG Streaking Grime for DAK was applied to selected panels, hinge lines and the inner undercarriage bay doors. This was blended with cotton buds moistened with Abteilung Matt Effect Thinner. All three landing lights were replaced with Little-Cars reflective lenses, and the camera windows were dipped in Klear floor polish, masked and tinted with Tamiya Smoke.

 To best replicate areas that suffered from swirling airflow, and a build-up of oil and grime, Flory Models’ FMW002 Dark Dirt wash was applied. Once dry, the surplus was removed with a moist cotton bud and tissue paper.

22

Airfix Model World

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20/02/2018 09:44

OUT AND ABOUT NUREMBERG TOY FAIR 2018

A test-shot of Airfix’s 1/72 Wellington was displayed, highlighting the kit’s superb detail and faithful replication of the type’s fabriccovered exterior.

Bavarian Bonanza T

his year’s annual modelling pilgrimage to Nuremberg was preempted by several firms releasing their 2018 schedules earlier than usual, but they still left room for surprises. Aoshima’s varied display

featured a 1/700 HMS Exeter and IJN Inazuma, 1/24 Liberty Walk Nissan R35 GT-R (with full ‘drifting’ body kit), a 1/48 ARX-8 Laevatein and an unknown scale Mecha Godzilla. There was similar variety on the Hobby Boss/Trumpeter stand,

which included a 1/35 S-300PMU (SA-20) launcher, Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I mid- and late-production types, Panther Ausf.G late with interior, and Russian 2S19-M2 selfpropelled howitzer. For aircraft modellers, there was a 1/72 Tu-22K Blinder-B, plus 1/24 Ju

 Thunderbolt trio: Special Hobby and Tarangus will be releasing several 1/72 kits of the mighty SAAB Viggen, commencing with the SK 37 trainer, followed by attack (AJ) and fighter (JA) variants.

24

Airfix Model World

87B-2/U4 Stuka and DH 110 Sea Vixen FAW. 2 test-shots, while ship specialists can expect a 1/350 HMS Exeter. Car specialist Ebbro surprised many with a 1/48 HA-420 Hondajet (with a fully detailed interior), but there was also a 1/20 Brabham Honda BT18, Team Lotus Type 49B and a 1/24 Citroën DS21 to whet car modellers’ appetites. With its Bf 109G-6 earning many plaudits (see News this issue), Tamiya presented an allnew 1/20 2017 Ferrari SF70H Formula 1 car, 1/48 Churchill Mk.VII Crocodile and 1/35 M3 Stuart Late Production. Its lovely 1/48 Ki-61 has been scaled down to 1/72, with the standout item being the mottled green camouflage, provided in decal form. Russia’s Ark Models celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Buran space shuttle’s first flight with two 1/144 offerings, and revealed its own 1/35 boxing of the T-14 Armata (developed with Trumpeter). There’ll also be a limited-edition resin 1/48 Armata, which will arguably be the most

OUT AND ABOUT NUREMBERG TOY FAIR 2018

accurate kit of the type to date. It was great to see a 1/72 Mi-24P Hind-F from Zvezda, and there was a gorgeous 1/144 Tu-204100 test-shot, along with several IL-76 Candid variants. Its growing armour collection was joined by a 1/35 Ural 4320, and to complement its modern vehicles there were two contemporary tank crew sets.

European delights Perhaps the most varied display belonged to Revell; for beginners there were 1/24 Porsche Junior 108 tractor and 1/16 Porsche 356 Easy-Click kits, while the RAF’s 100th anniversary is being commemorated with several re-releases, and a great-value box set (1/72 Lancaster B.III, Spitfire Mk.Vb and Hurricane Mk.IIb). Its 1/32 F/A-18E Super Hornet should finally be available in late 2018, along with a newly tooled 1/48 Beaufighter Mk.X and imposing 1/144 Antonov

 This year is turning out to be a quarter-scale windfall for fans of RAF subjects, with Revell’s Beaufighter Mk.X joining Airfix’s Blenheim in a ‘battle of the twins’.

An-225 Mrija. An undoubted auto highlight was the stunning 1/24 Ford GT ‘Le Mans’, and a new 1/72 PT-109 Patrol Torpedo Boat was among the maritime exhibits. There will be a freshly tooled 1/72 Saab Viggen in 2018, courtesy of Special Hobby/

Tarangus, with an SK 37 due first, accompanied by a Dornier Do 27, FH-1 Phantom and Sunderland Mk.V. Special hobby’s sub-brands, CMK and Planet Models, are as busy as ever, with copious upgrades for Hasegawa’s 1/72 World War Two Japanese

fighters and an all-new resin 1/72 Bundeswehr aircraft tug the respective highlights. Plus Model, Hauler and Brengun offered a veritable feast of products, with more than 30 scheduled for immediate release, but the year’s highlights

 It might be a static subject, but Revell captured the styling on its 1/24 Ford GT ‘Le Mans’ so well the model appears in motion, and it will undoubtedly excite auto modellers.

 Not content with its 1/35 armour and figures, MiniArt has dipped into aviation subjects in the same scale, and it’s Flettner Fl 282 Kolibri (hummingbird) is a real gem, boasting a detailed engine and internal structure.

 Airliner fans will eagerly await Zvezda’s newly tooled Tupolev Tu-204-100, especially given the firm’s reputation for accuracy and refinement.

 Plus Model’s resin 1/35 Generatorwagen C-Zug M-16 is a stunning example of this company’s creative genius, with a fully replicated engine for this World War One heavy artillery tractor. www.airfixmodelworld.com 25

OUT AND ABOUT NUREMBERG TOY FAIR 2018

 This delightful resin and photo-etched brass 1/72 FuSE 65 Würzburg-Riese radar from Hauler utilises the best characteristics of both mediums, to reproduce the delicate antenna structure and support arms.

 Renowned for meticulous research and accuracy, IBG Models is releasing a 1/35 Polish TKS Tankette, featuring a full interior and engine; highlighting the latter’s diminutive stature, the accompanying Bergepanzer III (right) is in 1/72 scale!

 Hasegawa’s F-35s are arguably the best available, and certainly feature the finest panel lines; its A-version has been reworked heavily, with new fuselage and lift-fan structure, to produce a superb F-35B ‘US Marine’ (also serving with the RAF).

 Formula 1 fans haven’t seen much from Tamiya recently, but that’s set to change with its 1/20 2017 Ferrari SF70H (as driven by Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Räikkönnen), which has captured the type’s sinuous lines perfectly.

include a 1/72 Würzburg radar and Bachem Natter launch tower, followed closely by a 1/72 Yak-1M and 1/35 Generatorwagen C-Zug M-16 vehicle. Another company with a heavy release schedule is Ukraine’s MiniArt, which will complete its M3 Grant line-up, while offering new 1/35 Soviet rocket launchers, early Pz.Kpfw IIIs, and further examples of its Flettner Fl 282 Kolibri helicopter. Czech-firm RS Model continued its eclectic release programme, with a 1/72 Bloch MB.152,

Nakajima Ki-87/II, Nakajima E8N1 and at least four boxings of the Bücker Bü 133, to join its unusual Bf 609 Zwilling ‘what-if’ projects. Eduard announced a completely new product line, Löök, which comprises pre-printed resin 1/32 and 1/48 instrument panels. Its eagerly awaited 1/72 MiG-21s should also emerge during the second quarter, along with a 1/48 Fw 190A-5 and re-boxed 1/72 Liberator (Hasegawa’s kit re-worked as an RAF GR Mk. III/V, with new runners, 13 schemes and a dual-language book). A 1/48 Bf 109G-10, limited-edition Fw 190A-8 (including Sturmbock variants) and new-tool Hawker Tempest are due in the second half of the year. Armoured excellence is IBG Models’ byword, and its all-new 1/35 Polish TKS Tankette is packed with detail. There are plenty of 1/72 subjects, with a Bergepanzer III, Toldi tank destroyer and Type 3 Chi Nu tank. British G- and H-class destroyers will feature as 1/700 ships, and expect several PZL.37s in 1/72 scale.

 Thunder’s 1/35 Indian 741B with Dispatch Rider is a big, but nonetheless welcome change in direction from its current heavy armour and tank transporters, offering excellent detail throughout.

 Trumpeter’s 1/48 Sea Vixen FAW.2 test-shot drew plenty of attention, with busy cockpits for the pilot and observer, and options for open/closed canopies and airbrakes.

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With its catalogue published beforehand, it was refreshing to see ICM’s new products, including a 1/32 Bucker Bü 131 trainer, MiG25RBF reconnaissance Foxbat, 1/72 Do 17Z-7 night fighter and 1/35 le.gl.Einheits-Pkw Kfz.1 staff car. Its 1/16 figure range continues to expand, with announcements of a 9th Century Viking and a certain ‘Night King’. France's Heller has a busy re-release schedule for 2018, including a 1/43 Renault 4CV and 5, 1/24 Citroen C4s, and 1/72 SAAB Lansen, Lockheed Super Constellation, and Potez 63-11 and 540. Maritime modellers aren’t neglected, with new boxings of 1/400 Escorteurs Rapides (Frigates) E50 and E52, and 1/200 Volontaire cargo ship among the many re-issues. Italeri’s catalogue features many re-boxings, with new decals on its 1/72 Tornado IDS and F/A-18…but its hot item is still the new 1/32 Tornado GR.4 Stu Fone

VIEW MORE ONLINE www.airfixmodelworld.com

Zundapp KS750 Motorcycle Rider & German Shepherd

Motorcycle NOT included

1/9 Scale

For Zundapp motorcycle only (includes Saddlebag accessories) Please Note: all our figures and accessories are unassembled and unpainted

MIL-SPEC AIRBRUSH-READY QUICK-DRYING ENAMEL PAINT [email protected] www.alclad2-online.co.uk Phone: 01692 500700

To place an order and to see more please visit our website:

www.ModelCellar.com

RIDERS IN THE SKY 1944 1/72

SELECTION FROM 13 MARKING OPTIONS

Liberator GR Mk.III and GR Mk.V in the RAF Coastal Command service Hasegawa plastic parts Two unique plastic sprues by Eduard (NEW TOOL) Eduard photo-etched details and painting mask Cartograf printed decals for 13 marking options of RAF Coastal Command Liberators GR Mk.III and GR Mk.V A2 size boxart print by Piotr Forkasiewicz 76 pages book by Pavel Türk and Pavel Vančata related to the theme (in Czech language, English text available on Eduard website) with focus to No. 311 (Czechoslovak) Squadron RAF

#2121 March 2018

p027_AMW_Apr18_ad.indd 1

www.eduard.com

20/02/2018 09:52

FIGURE BUILD ZULU & 24th FOOT  Although few in number, the resin components of both figures required the removal of casting blocks, seams and flash.

MODEL SPEC

Jay Blakemore creates an action-packed 120mm vignette, courtesy of Mitches Military Models' Rorke’s Drift figures

n January 22-23, 1879, 150 men of B Company, 2nd Battalion, 24th Foot (2nd Warwickshire) Regiment – under the command of Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead – defended a missionary station against thousands of Zulu warriors. Known as KwaJimu (Jim’s Land) in Zulu language, Rorke’s Drift was a former trading post, having once belonged to an Irish merchant named James Rorke. It was located near a drift, or ford, on the Buffalo River, which formed part of the border between the British colony of Natal and the hostile Zulu kingdom. Having been turned into a supply post and hospital, Rorke’s Drift was garrisoned on January 11, 1879, by B Company, weakening the force then marching to quell the Zulu nation under the command of Lord Chelmsford. Splitting his force yet again, Chelmsford then established an advance camp in the drift and marched with the No.3 (Centre) Column of his army towards the lands of the Zulu’s King Cetshwayo. On January 22, Cetshwayo despatched his Zulu and 24th Foot By:

Mitches Military Models

Stock Code:

120/RD1 & RD2

Scale:

120mm

Price:

£35 each

Available from: www.mitches militarymodels.co.uk

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FIGURE BUILD ZULU & 24th FOOT  The basic components assembled easily and quickly, though it was deemed necessary to use metal rods to strengthen the joints.

 Metal rod inserts meant the spear and shield hands, and the delicate headgear of the Zulu, could be painted separately.

own army, which outflanked the advancing column and attacked the British camp situated at the foot of a hill called Isandlwana. The encamped soldiers were routed, and several Zulu regiments (Impi’s – a group of armed men), under the command of Prince Dabulamanzi, broke off the attack and, chasing down fugitives, advanced upon Rorke’s Drift. What followed was a staunch defence against overwhelming odds, which has since been enshrined in British military history as a glorious victory, with eleven Victoria Crosses being awarded for this single action. The action was further immortalised in American director Cy Enfield’s, 1964 motion picture epic, Zulu.

each figure is available separately, though they undoubtedly work better as a pair. Cast in pale yellow resin, the figures required considerable neatening, and appeared to be early castings and possibly not wholly representative of the production standard. That said, they still required significant modification as some important features were missing and would, therefore, be more suitable for modellers with some previous experience of working with resin and scratch-building. As is usual with resin kits, the initial job was to remove all casting blocks, flash and seams from the individual parts,

before washing them in lukewarm soapy water. This latter task is important as it removes any greasy residue from the casting process, which might hamper later adhesion of both glue and paint.

Construction was generally straightforward as the number of components was minimal – the warrior comprising just ten and the soldier 13. Although rudimentary socket joints had been sculpted onto the mating surfaces of the larger body components, most were devoid of locating aids. However, not wishing to trust to

the butt-joints and cyanoacrylate (CA) glue alone, it was decided most items would benefit from the insertion of metal rods. This created strength, but also meant certain delicate or obstructive items – such as the feathered headdress and shield – could be attached after painting. Both figures were therefore assembled fully save for their hands and all they were holding, and the soldier’s left ammunition pouch and water bottle. Much filler was required along every joint, not just to address the resultant gaps but to re-shape the surrounds. Milliput was used for this, being a

 Once assembled, the warrior figure required filler around all joints. Milliput filled the gaps and was employed to create new detail around the wrists.

 The Zulu was base-coated in a pale orange/brown mix. It was hoped this vivid colour would remain visible beneath succeeding darker translucent layers.

 Black, brown and blue washes were applied over the base-coat, and white spirit was utilised to ‘clean’ areas of the darker colours, creating a translucent effect.

Assembly point

Rorke’s resin The Anglo-Zulu war has been largely overlooked by mainstream figure manufacturers, though with the release by Mitches Military Models of its 120mm Rorke’s Drift vignette, that oversight has been rectified. Established in 2012, Mitches is a family business based in Penrith, Wales. Over the intervening years its range of 120mm and 200mm kits has grown to more than 100 different products, featuring military subjects from ancient to modern, by sculptors Maurice Corry, Carl Reid and Pavol Ovecka. The Rorke’s Drift duo arrived bubble-wrapped and packed within individual boxes, each with one half of a two-part base (not used in this build), meaning of course that

www.airfixmodelworld.com 29

FIGURE BUILD ZULU & 24th FOOT  The skin tones have been enlivened further with subtle blue highlights, and work has started on the eyes, tongue and teeth.

Having allowed preceding layers of paint to harden thoroughly, a further mix of blue and black enamels created shadows and yet darker skin tones.  On the soldier figure too, it was decided the joints would benefit from metal rod supports. The rifle could then be painted separately and added once all painting was completed.

The Martini-Henry rifle was enhanced with a new barrel and ramrod. Soft metal wire was bent to shape, to form hangers for the metal foil strap.

highly malleable putty that can be shaped, and which hardens slowly over several hours, thus allowing modifications or refinements. It can also be cut and sanded when dry, making it extremely adaptable. The same medium was used to extend the warrior’s wrist adornments, negating the need to later fill those joints after painting…and to scratch-build missing details; these included a button on the coat-tail, part of the belt, the helmet chin strap and additional jacket creases/ folds, which it was felt would add to the sense of movement in the finished figure. Reference photos also suggested the Martini-Henry rifle butt was stunted, so this was extended with Milliput and a plastic card butt-plate. While modifying the rifle, it was also decided to replace the solid barrel with a short length of brass tubing, and to fashion a strap from metal foil. Old scalpel blade packaging sufficed

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for the latter and was also used to create the straps absent from the top edges of the gaiters.

To the colours The method for painting the Zulu’s dark skin tones may, to many, seem counter intuitive, in that the base coat would actually become the tonal highlights once the figure was

 A chin strap was missing from the front of helmet, so a new item was fabricated from Milliput. A needle and sharpened cocktail stick were the preferred tools for shaping details such as the buckle.

finished. This method of ‘colour washing’ would be impossible with acrylics, but with slow-drying enamels (used exclusively here), a translucent lustre that enlivens skin tones can be achieved. It is a relatively simple technique to master, too. In this instance, a dark orange/brown mix was used to basecoat the entire warrior. Having been allowed to dry thoroughly, this was then overpainted with a dark purple, black, brown and blue mix. The darker colour was then ‘washed off’ with a flat, soft brush moistened with white spirit, and left to dry. This process was then repeated via a black and blue enamel wash, emphasising such areas as the armpits and neck, and those overshadowed by clothing. This process was continued until the desired effect had been created. The colours used during the washing process were from Humbrol: 113 Rust, 63

Leather, 73 Wine and 186 Brown. From the Colourcoats range (www. sovereignhobbies.co.uk) came Oxford Blue (ACRN31) and Black (ACR504). Zulu warriors sported simple garments more suited to ceremony than battle, which consisted of arm and knee adornments called amaShoba, made from cow tails. Around their waists they wore a protective covering made from circular patches of tightly sewn hide, named isiNene, beneath which was an apron of calf skin, called an iBeshu, while a leopard skin head band was worn just by warriors who’d taken a wife. On the figure, these items were painted with a mix of earthy tones, the intention being to limit the pallet as far as possible – and make the finished warrior appear a part of the landscape. Just the black and white adornments were to stand out, but these too were toned

FIGURE BUILD ZULU & 24th FOOT

The button and decorative piping were also absent from the jacket tail, so these were also fabricated from fuse wire and Milliput.

down to appear muted and dustcovered; in essence, a part of the natural world.

Raising the flag The British figure, on the other hand, was to contrast completely to the Zulu warrior, though the painting process would be complimentary, to make the disparate subjects look like they belonged together. The helmet and head were tackled initially, with 186 Brown and 61 Flesh basecoats respectively. Lighter tones were then added gradually to the helmet, until a muted white

appearance was achieved, while on the face, dark brown skin tones created shadows. Highlights were added by adding white to the mix, blending the lighter into the darker colours with a soft, white-spiritdampened brush. Enamel paints are as malleable as oils and can be manipulated in much the same way, making them perfect for creating subtle tones on figures. Enamel, however, dries far more quickly, which limits blending times but allows models to be completed more speedily. As a final touch to his features, a subtle dusting of white was added to the

 Metal foil straps were added to the tops of the gaiters and buckles, and once again fabricated from Milliput.

 Helmet and head were almost complete; the jacket was base-coated in red enamel and the belt and straps in off-white.

ends of the sergeant’s whiskers, to complement and reflect the feathers in the head adornment of his sparring partner. Over a coat of Alclad ALC-302 Grey Primer & Micro Filler, a bright red (153 Insignia Red) basecoat was applied to the sergeant’s jacket. When thoroughly dry, this was washed with darker hues much as described previously, to create a layered base upon which the details of the material could be added. Before the wash had dried completely, deeper shadows were added with black and blue shades, blended into

the surrounding areas. Once dry, lighter red hues were added via a technique echoing dry-brushing, by which wet, rather than dry paint was ‘flicked’ across the raised surfaces by way of a soft brush and blended into the base colours. This method was used due to the large surfaces that had to be painted and would be a little crude if applied to smaller scales. Lastly, highlights were added with a thin, soft brush with ever lighter shades of red. The sergeant’s sash was treated similarly, but with a touch of 58 Magenta added to the highlights, to make it stand out from the jacket. Trousers and boots too were painted similarly, though more brown accents were added during the highlighting process to make them appear stained and dusty. The colours used to shade the NCO figure were once again those utilised to shade the warrior’s skin, meaning the shadows would appear uniform across both figures. A hint of blue would also be used when painting the base.

 Shadows have been applied to the uniform jacket via a dark wash, and highlights revealed by removing some of the dark enamel. www.airfixmodelworld.com 31

FIGURE BUILD ZULU & 24th FOOT

 Oakwood Studios provided an impressive base upon which to mount the vignette. The sandy colours and grain in the wood echoed natural tones found in the wilds of Africa.

 Groundwork was sculpted from Milliput to portray fallen ‘mealie’ sacks. Such obstacles were used to create defensive walls around the supply post before the battle commenced.  AMMO-MIG’s Acrylic Mud provided a textured coat to the groundwork. This was simply brushed onto the surface straight from the tub and dried hard within an hour.

Stand to! It was apparent as soon as the figures were assembled that the finished vignette would be impressively large, requiring a sizable base, and where better to go for such an item than Oakwood studios (www.oakwoodstudios. co.uk). Based in Middleton near Leeds, this manufacturer has produced quality bases for 25 years, and they’ve graced many an awards table at premier modelling shows. This pair of adversaries

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A short piece of branch was added, which it was felt would help balance the overall scene once finished. Badly planned groundwork can ruin a diorama/vignette.

needed a base that reflected the colours of the African plains, upon which the real events occurred, and which would further make the red-coated sergeant appear glaringly out of place; hopefully suggesting the overwhelming sense of isolation the British soldiery must have felt while serving in such far-flung colonies. The resultant wooden plinth-base was a real beauty…the perfect complement to the vignette. It would have been a crime to have drilled holes into such timber, but that is exactly what was required to secure the groundwork. Four holes were drilled into the top of the base and screws inserted, before large chunks of Milliput were kneaded and spread across the top of the plinth, shaping it to create an undulating surface. The figures were then posed above the base to ascertain

the composition of the final piece, and the rods protruding from their legs pressed into the soft material. When the Milliput had hardened thoroughly, the figures were posed again to check their alignment, and further holes drilled into the base to provide mounting points. It was felt, however, the composition didn’t quite work when they were displayed level, and so a duallevel solution was envisaged, and created by sculpting ‘mealies’ – hessian sacks used to store millet and the like, and which were employed as barricade walls during the Zulu attack on Rorke’s Drift (once again from Milliput), and pressing the figures into the soft material to create holes, which aligned with those pre-drilled into the plinth. The sacks were then worked with various craft tools to create sculpted details. Then, from AMMO-MIG’s Acrylic Mud range (www.migjimenez.com), A.MIG-2100 Arid Dry Ground gave the groundwork a suitably stony appearance, and a section of twig was utilised to fill what would otherwise be a featureless corner on the finished vignette. Careful planning pays dividends when envisaging a diorama, and finished pieces can look completely out of balance if too little forethought has been given to arrangement. Painting was once again undertaken with restraint in mind, utilising many colours previously mentioned, with just muted green tones being added to the brown pallet. I used different Humbrol enamel varnish mixes for each figure, giving the sergeant a completely matt appearance and the warrior a slight sheen.

A battle won Mitches Millitary Model’s Rorke’s Drift vignette proved to be a

 Base-coated with a mix of brown enamels, the only other colours added to the groundwork were muted greens and blue shadows. Tall grasses were made from old shaving brush bristles.

pleasing challenge. The figures were a little rough around the edges, especially the staff sergeant, and had it been appropriate to the build brief, would have greatly benefitted from re-worked facial features and poses. As it was, those additions mentioned above were felt essential to correct the deficiencies of both uniform and rifle. That having been said, it was a fun build, greatly enhanced by the wonderful base supplied by Oakwood Studios.

INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 87R-2/B-2

Desert

Dive-Bomber Just over a year ago Alan Price built Airfix’s new-tool 1/48 Ju 87B-1 Stuka out of the box. Now he tackles the R-2/B-2 and adds aftermarket detail

A

irfix’s re-worked Stuka contains one new runner ‘J’ (replacing ‘H’ from the original boxing) and carries the new nose parts to

allow the later-style exhausts to be accommodated. All the other additional parts required for the B-2 or R-2 versions are already on the runners, such as the larger

 Plain brass PE parts were attached to the cockpit sidewalls before painting. The sidewalls were delicate, so were left attached to the runners until painting was completed.

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propeller and underwing drop tanks. To add extra detail to our test-shot, photo-etched (PE) metal and Brassin resin sets from Eduard were employed (see panel).

Easy assembly Construction began with the cockpit, which was already pleasing straight out of the box. There were ejector pin marks on certain parts, and while most were hidden during construction and so could be left, a few (such as those on the floor of the gunner’s compartment) were visible…and tricky to remove without damaging surrounding

 The starboard upper wing needed the panel removing, to allow the gun bay to be portrayed open. This was done by scoring along the panel lines repeatedly.

INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 87R-2/B-2

Kit schemes Airfix provides markings for the following two Luftwaffe aircraft: • Ju 87R-2, S1+HK, 2./Sturzkampfgeschwader 3, Greece, spring 1941 • Ju 87B-2, T6+AN, 2./Sturzkampfgeschwader 2 ‘Immelmann’, Libya, May 1942

 After painting the cockpit floor and seat, the Eduard Steel belts were glued to the pilot’s seat. These proved to be malleable and easy to manipulate. There were quite a few other parts to attach to the cockpit floor, all requiring PE additions. For the rack of ammunition boxes, each one received a tiny PE hand strap.

MODEL SPEC

detail. Given the deadline was short on this build, it was decided not to attend to these. The Eduard set added many additional features, but also replaced existing detail, which had to be cut away. To begin, it was necessary to study Eduard’s instructions carefully, to see what was impacted in the cockpit. First, Junkers Ju 87R-2/B-2 Stuka By:

Airfix

Stock Code:

A07115

Scale:

1/48

Price:

£27.99

Available from: www.airfix.com

any replacement parts from the plain brass PE fret were dealt with. Existing relief was removed carefully with a scalpel and the Eduard parts were attached with Deluxe Materials’ Roket nonblooming cyano glue, which works particularly well for attaching PE parts to plastic. Basic assembly of the cockpit floor and seats was tackled, before it was time to apply paint. The cockpit parts received Mr. Hobby H70 RLM 02 Grey and, once the paint had dried, the precoloured PE could be attached. The RLM 02 paintwork was drybrushed with a lightened mix, then a thin black wash was applied over all parts and allowed to dry. Eduard’s Steel seatbelts were then attached to both seats; these ultrathin harnesses were much easier to manipulate than traditional PE belts and conformed to

After painting the parts, many pre-painted PE components had to be glued in place. A black pin-wash helped to accentuate kit part detail.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 87R-2/B-2

“Photo-etched metal and Brassin resin sets from Eduard were employed”

the shape of the seats easily. There were many parts for the cockpit, but several were not used where it was felt they were too hidden or didn’t add to the model. Remember…sometimes PE parts may not be the best solution, and

it’s up to the modeller to decide what looks best on their model. With the main cockpit parts completed, the sidewalls were attached to the cockpit floor and the kit instrument panel was positioned on the forward

Metal and resin With the original version of this kit having been out for some time, there was already a wealth of aftermarket parts available, and suitable for this version. Though these say Ju 87B-1 they are also appropriate for the B-2/R-2, as the changes were to the engine/prop and wing fuel tanks alone. To add to the already impressive detail, the following Eduard sets were used: 49800 Ju 87B-1 and 49801 Ju 87B-1 Seatbelts Steel. These two packages provided a host of new parts for the cockpit, wings and tail surfaces; both offered plain brass and pre-coloured components. Also selected was Eduard’s Brassin bomb set, SC 50 German WWII bombs 1/48 (648264) and, to make painting the canopy framing much easier, Eduard’s mask set EX536 Ju 87B-1 was also obtained.

bulkhead assembly. This contained the bomb-aiming window and the glazing itself had to be masked before painting the assembly in RLM 02. Eduard’s instrument panel was then glued to the kit panel, along with the PE rudder pedals. The former item had a number of minute levers to attach, and these

were all secured carefully before the completed panel was set aside to prevent damage. The Eduard radio sets were not used, save for the faces, which were simply attached to the kit part. Using the Eduard parts would leave nowhere to attach the pilot’s roll-over frame. The already painted fuselage halves were then mated around the cockpit, the fit being excellent, with very little work required to neaten any of the joins; but rather than sand the seams alone, though, they were all given a coat of filler and then abraded. That way, filler was removed rather than the plastic forming the shape of the model. Airfix’s kit offered the option of building the model with a closed engine cowling or with the powerplant exposed. The former was selected for this build, and involved new parts on Runner J, which were assembled as per the

The instrument panel had several tiny levers to attach, which took great care to place correctly. Instrument dials were glazed with Humbrol Gloss Varnish.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 87R-2/B-2

 This kit came with a new nose, the openings for the exhausts being completely different on R-2/B-2 sub-types.

 The gun bay, though simple to construct, contained much detail. Several PE parts were added, enhancing the area further.  Once the fuselage was assembled, the model progressed rapidly, with the wings and tail surfaces fitting almost perfectly. The superbly detailed cockpit is obvious.

 At this stage, all seams had been treated. The undercarriage legs were assembled without the wheels and they were left unglued to the fuselage, to facilitate painting later.

instructions. Once again, the fit was excellent and the completed nose, minus the exhausts (which would be painted and attached at the end) was then glued onto the assembled fuselage.

Even more refinement Eduard’s PE set had parts to enliven the wing gun bays, but it was decided to expose just the

starboard unit. Airfix made the plastic very thin around the bay access hatch and cutting along the deep panel lines several times soon allowed the panel to be removed. Gun assembly required little modification prior to the PE parts being added, and these were soon ready to paint. The interior of the gun bay was airbrushed RLM 02 and the gun and ammunition

 Once the main construction was finished, delicate PE exterior parts were attached. Here, the rudder received very fine actuators, replacing moulded kit detail.

 On the underside of the nose, the bomb aiming window received a PE fairing. Note the sliver of white plastic at the forward edge, as there was a slight gap.

boxes accentuated with Humbrol enamels. A dark wash completed the painting, and the wings could then be assembled. With the mainplanes attached, the tail surfaces were addressed, and the separate elevators were glued carefully along the back of the horizontal stabilisers in the drooped position,

using the suitably angled wing tip parts in the kit. Undercarriage spats were constructed next and, for a model sat on its wheels, a small section had to be removed from the leg of each spat (to show the undercarriage in compressed, on-ground condition); this was marked clearly in the parts and the instructions. There was no need to fit the wheels at this point, as was found in the previous build…a slight modification allows them to be fitted at the end, easing painting. Similarly, the spats themselves did not need to be glued as they pushfitted tightly. Leaving

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 87R-2/B-2  The propeller needed work before it could be painted; there were unsightly gaps to fill, where the rear of the hub met the blades.  The cockpit framing was partly visible on the inner canopy and Eduard provided masks. Once the inside was finished, these were removed, and the outside addressed.  The fixed canopy sections were attached before painting. There were no marks to indicate where the centre section should go, but the closed canopy part was employed as fitting guide.

Having painted and masked the underside, the upper surface splinter camouflage was applied in full.

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them unglued allowed them to be removed, again easing painting. At this point construction was almost complete, and it was time to add the more delicate PE parts to the exterior and attach the nonopening sections of glazing. The open canopy option was desirable, and as the Stuka had internal framing to parts of the canopy, this would need painting before attachment. Fortunately, Eduard's Ju 87 set contained all necessary masks and, once positioned, the order of painting was established. First the exterior framing hidden below the slid-back pilot’s canopy needed to be painted RLM 70 Black Green. The remaining framing was masked temporarily and the green duly airbrushed. On removing the interim masking, the inner framing received RLM 02 Grey. After the masks were removed, the canopy could then be attached and the exterior masks were applied. The rear canopy section was dealt with at the same time; this too had internal framing, but the Eduard set, strangely, did not include masks for this. Tamiya tape was pressed into service to allow the framing to be covered. Eduard's PE provided small actuators for the tail control surfaces. To fit these, the integrally

Warpaint Photographs of the particular aircraft being modelled feature in several books, and some of these have colour profiles that offer an interesting take on the camera images. The standard RLM 70/71 splinter was oversprayed with patches of sandy brown colour. The latter may have been RLM 79, or possibly mixed from locally available paint, possibly Italian…which was known to have been used. Of the two profiles to hand, both had a different propeller spinner colour. The back of the spinner was a light colour; Airfix went with RLM 79, while another profile suggested RLM 65. The photograph does appear to show a slight difference in tone, so this is possible. The tip of the spinner is probably red, as Airfix and some of the profiles suggested, and this would be expected as it matches the colour of the fuselage letter ‘A’. The profiles can be found in: Junkers Ju 87 From Dive Bomber to Tank Buster 1935-1945, by Eddie J. Creek, (Classic Publications), ISBN: 978-1-90653-728-9 Luftwaffe Colours STUKA Volume, by Peter C Smith (Classic Publications), ISBN-10: 1-903223-70-9

INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 87R-2/B-2

“A pin wash was applied once the decals had dried”

moulded detail for the rudder and elevators must be removed, then the new PE parts attached. Actuators were also provided for the elevator trim tabs, but oddly there were not enough of these… one too few on the PE fret, so they were omitted.

Unusual camouflage The model was now ready for paint, and the chosen colour scheme

(‘B’, on the instructions) was for the Libya-based aircraft with its unusual pattern. After priming the model with Mr. Surfacer 1000, panel lines were pre-shaded with black and the correct Mr. Hobby paints selected for the camouflage. The underside was airbrushed RLM 65 via H67. This was then left to dry for 24 hours before masking the underside in preparation for the upper surface

Soft-edge, sandy patches were airbrushed freehand over the splinter pattern.

 A pin wash was applied once the decals had dried. The completed propeller assembly was then attached, but although the undercarriage was in, the previously painted spats were left unglued as the fit was tight enough to hold them securely.

camouflage. First, the full splinter pattern had to be airbrushed by first applying a coat of H64 RLM 71. The splinter pattern was then masked and airbrushed with H65 RLM 70. Over this, RLM 79 patches were airbrushed freehand with H66. While there are photos to help with the starboard side of the camouflage, there are no other images to aid one replicate the pattern elsewhere, so this

was purely conjecture based on available evidence of other aircraft. The wing walkways and fuselage theatre band were then masked and airbrushed appropriately. Following 24 hours’ drying, a gloss coat was airbrushed, and decals were applied the following evening. It was apparent Airfix’s fuselage code letters were scaled slightly larger than those on the actual aircraft. While Airfix Wing walkways were masked and painted, as was the white theatre band on fuselage.

 Eduard’s resin bombs were beautifully detailed, with just a small casting block to remove from each. The ‘whistle’ straps (which provided the terrifying sound as the device dropped) were supplied on separate pour stubs and four of these were attached to each store. www.airfixmodelworld.com 39

INTERMEDIATE BUILD Ju 87R-2/B-2

 The delicate kit pitot tube was replaced with Albion Alloys’ (www. albionhobbies.com) 0.6mm brass tube, which was much stronger.

Reference Haynes’ captivating volume offers an in-depth study of the Ju 87, recounting its design lineage, before examining the type’s anatomy and its operational career in depth. Crew accounts enliven the text throughout, including a test pilot report by the legendary Eric ‘Winkle’ Brown RN and Luftwaffe pilots, with several from Stuka 'experten' HansUlrich Rudel. This is an ideal volume for Stuka modellers, with plenty of period photographs and close-ups of museum exhibits. Junkers Ju 87 Stuka, by: Jonathan Falconer, (www.haynes.co.uk), ISBN: 978-1-78521-141-6

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Airfix Model World

appears to have used the standard size for lettering, the real aircraft employed slightly undersized versions. The letters were aligned along a datum extending from the lower edge of the horizontal arms of the black portion of the fuselage Balkenkreuz. The upper edge of the letters is the same height as the top of the Balkenkreuz in the photographs, but on the model, they protruded slightly above this line. Airfix’s decals adhered without trouble, though copious amounts of Microscale setting solutions were used. A new scalpel blade was then used to cut into all panel lines, to ensure the decals settled into the detail. A further day’s drying elapsed before the model was cleaned with warm water and kitchen towel, to remove the decal adhesive and solvents. The model then received more gloss varnish, followed by a panel line wash of Flory Models’ Dark Dirt for the underside and Black for the top. Exhaust stains were airbrushed, starting with a sand colour, then mid-grey, and finally dark grey in the centre. A dark red-brown mix was then airbrushed along various panel lines to impart the

look of aged paintwork. The panel line wash and weathering was then protected by a further coat of gloss varnish.

Almost mission accomplished The propeller spinner required careful masking to create the three-coloured section and the propeller itself needed filling and sanding (where the rear

centre section attached) before being airbrushed RLM 70. Once assembled, the propeller was glued into the nose opening. The rear gun was painted, and to allow the rear canopy to be posed open, the cartridge collection bag underneath the gun had to be cut away. The gun was then glued carefully into the canopy opening, and the canopy itself attached in the open position. With the aerials anchored and navigation lights painted, the model was complete. This is one of my favourite models from the current releases by Airfix. Both versions are a delight to build and their detail is excellent from the box. Adding the Eduard sets seen here, though, certainly elevated the result.

 Airfix's racks needed to be modified to carry Eduard’s SC 50s; the large attachment stub for the kit bombs was cut down, then filed to make the required carriers for the Eduard units.

Pennine Models at Haworth

Saturday 5th May

Scale Model Show at

Tangmere Military Aviation Museum Admission to Show & Museum Adults: £9.00 Over 60s: £7.00 Children between 5 and 16: £3.00 Children under 5: FREE Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children): £21.00 TANGMERE, Nr Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 2ES Opening Hours 10.00 till 17.00

www.tangmere-museum.org.uk

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Wednesday to Sunday 11am - 5pm 33/35 Mill Hey, Haworth, Keighley BD22 8NQ Tel: 01535 642367 [email protected]

20/02/2018 09:58

INTERMEDIATE BUILD BAC CANBERRA B.2

Twin-Jet Teddy's

After what seems like an eternity, we finally have a new-tool 1/72 bomber-canopy Canberra. Andy Davies discovers if S&M Models’ B.2 was worth the wait

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Airfix Model World

Being a typical short-run offering, attachment points were quite thick and the parts needed careful removal to avoid damage. No sink-marks were apparent, due in part to the lack of alignment pins and locating holes, and no short-shot parts were in evidence. Exterior surfaces featured fine, engraved panel lines, with no fading at sharp edges or around curved surfaces, and there was no warpage. Interestingly, parts for the T.4 version were also included in this boxing.

Weighty affair While basic, the cockpit included a detailed pilot’s instrument panel, side-walls, central fusebox console and floor, complete

with the bomb-aimer’s station. The rear section consisted of the navigator’s panel, table and rear bulkhead. Unfortunately, the kit

MODEL SPEC

E

nglish Electric’s Canberra, designed by WEW ‘Teddy’ Petter, served with more than 15 air forces, and was one of the rare foreign designs operated by the US Air Force (as the B-57). When news of a freshly tooled ‘goldfish bowl’ or bomber-canopy Canberra emerged in 2015, it was well received within the modelling community. For some reason, this variant has long been neglected, particularly in 1/72, so the arrival of S&M Models’ B.2 was anticipated eagerly (a T.4 is also available — see News last issue). The sturdy, top-opening box contained six styrene runners, holding 66 parts and a single clear frame for the glazing.

British Canberra B.2 By:

S&M Models

Stock Code:

SM K72-40

Scale:

1/72

Price:

£36

Available from: www.sandmmodels.co.uk

seats were vague representations of the type’s Martin-Baker (MB) Mk.2 CS and were replaced with Aeroclub’s white metal items (EJ001 – no longer in production). These were detailed with lead wire, blue masking tape and prepainted photo-etched (PE) metal accessories from Eduard’s MB Ejection Seat Handles Set (73611); Mike Grant Decals’ CKP 072 provided instrument dials and cockpit placards. There was a great deal of cockpit plumbing in 1950s aircraft, so wire looms, conduits, circuitbreaker boxes and oxygen piping were fashioned from lead wire. With the interior painted Tamiya XF-69 NATO Black, selected areas were lightened with the addition of XF-2 White to avoid the dreaded

INTERMEDIATE BUILD BAC CANBERRA B.2

Each undercarriage bay comprised a floor, side-walls and a cross member; the raised rib and stringer details were particularly well realised.

Due to its short-run nature, most components had thick runner attachment points, which needed careful attention. A side-cutter tool and fresh scalpel blades were the order of the day.

Kit decals S&M provided a single B.2 scheme, along with full airframe stencilling. Unfortunately, there were several errors on the decals, notably the fin flash (which should be rectangular) and black wing walkway lines (which should be red/yellow stripes); the former was replaced with a spare item, and the latter with alternatives from Modeldecal (bottom). The kit livery was WK162/CA, 100 Squadron, RAF Marham, 1980.

Exhaust shrouds and intake cones fitted into the wings with minimal fuss. No wing location tabs were included, although the main undercarriage bay wall provided a good mating surface.

‘coal-hole’ look, while raised relief was highlighted with matt grey enamel paint. The instructions made no mention of including adequate nose weight so, with the Canberra being a notorious tail-sitter, 35g of lead ballast was glued behind the rear cockpit bulkhead. Gator’s Grip PVA secured the cockpit glazing, and the canopy rim, navigator’s side and overhead windows were masked with

strips of 1mm Jammydog and Tamiya tape.

Bay watch Work then switched to the undercarriage bays, which contained crisply moulded stringer and rib detail. These multi-part assemblies resulted in sturdy box constructions, which located easily into raised areas in the lower wing halves. Cyanoacrylate (CA) glue was employed here, as the undercarriage legs were designed to fit in square recesses in the bay

roof, which required an element of force; without a strong bond, this could easily have resulted in the bay becoming separated. The legs themselves fitted neatly into locating pins on the inner faces of the gear doors, ensuring the correct angle was maintained once the undercarriage was attached. Extra details were added to the nosewheel bay and gear leg, but the forward location points were vague and required CA to stay in position. It was easier to fit the wheels (and borrowed mudguard)

to the leg before attachment to the bay. The wheel hubs received Alclad ALC-117 Dull Aluminium, and the tyres Mission Models MMP-040 Tire Black; masking was achieved with Maketar’s MMS017 Wheel Masking Kit.

Classic wings The mainplanes were dry-fitted to check for panel alignment and were perfect. As is common with short-run kits, the trailing edges were slightly thick, so the mating surfaces were reduced with

www.airfixmodelworld.com 43

INTERMEDIATE BUILD BAC CANBERRA B.2

Yellow and black To complement Aeroclub’s seats, firing handles were sourced from Eduard’s MB Ejection Seat Handles Set 73611, which provided items for MB Mk.5, 7, 16, 16A and GRU-7 units. The latter were employed for this project as they appeared the closest to the MB Mk.2’s items and, being pre-coloured, negated the need for meticulous painting of the yellow/ black stripes.

To relieve the ‘coal-hole’ effect of the black cockpit, it was decided to enliven the area with different shades of NATO Black and dry-brushed Neutral Grey. Much lead weight was needed to ensure the model wasn’t a tail-sitter.

 As separate wing-tip lights were not included, the engraved areas were removed and sections of clear styrene cut and sanded to shape; these were a considerably better than the original. With the cockpit added, lead wire, scrap resin and 2mm plastic rod replicated the Canberra’s complex plumbing, fuse-box connections and air-conditioning conduits.

With intake and exhaust shrouds in place, and the replacement engine ‘bullets’ added, the wings took on the classic Canberra shape.

 The kit seats (far left) were basic, so metal units from Aeroclub were used instead. Lead wire, masking tape strips and Eduard firing handles provided further enhancement.

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Airfix Model World

6,000-grade abrasive paper, taped to a flat surface. The single-piece engine exhaust shrouds were then added; thankfully, these fitted well and needed just a light swipe with a sanding stick to merge seamlessly into the nacelles. Next, the engine intake bullets and compressor discs were fitted; while the Avon facings on the latter were well rendered, the B.2’s characteristic single-cartridge starter breech lacked tip detail and appeared too thin. Replacements were made from scrap resin — PE oddments replicated the knurled cartridge mechanism. With the kit parts removed via a micro-drill, the new items were attached with CA. By comparison, the two-part intake cones fitted perfectly, with no need for filler. The wing/fuselage join was

effectively a butt-type affair, although the wing upper edges were designed to sit on a moulded wing-root ‘shelf’ on the fuselage side. The fit was excellent and there were no problems with the strength of this area (thankfully the completed model has remained stable). Similarly, there were no issues with the tailplane, which simply abutted the rear fuselage. Care was needed to ensure the correct dihedral, this being achieved via copies of official Air Publication (AP) three-view drawings and detailed photographs from the IPMS (UK) Canberra Special Interest Group (SIG) website (see Reference panel). The inner edges of the engine intake fairings were masked and sprayed with Mr. Hobby H332 Light Aircraft Grey, H75 Dark Sea

INTERMEDIATE BUILD BAC CANBERRA B.2

“Lead wire, scrap resin and 2mm plastic rod replicated the Canberra’s complex plumbing”

Grey and H78 Olive Green; the latter was used as it contained a brown tint, which matched the worn appearance of RAF Dark Green following several years’ hard service. It was decided to replace the kit’s navigation lights (moulded integrally with the wing halves) with clear styrene rod. Once sanded to shape, the new items were polished to a glass-like finish with a Dremel rotary tool.

A wheel dilemma There was one slight glitch with the parts in this release, namely the mainwheels. The B.2 units featured

a characteristic spoked design, but the kit components portrayed a later style. This wasn’t a major problem, but if the modeller wished to build an accurate B.2, then replacements must be sought. As luck would have it, a set of Aeroclub resin wheels

The large single-piece glazing was test-fitted to check for clearance issues with the ejection seats. Fortunately, there was an excellent join, with just light sanding needed to blend it into the fuselage.

Manufacturers at a glance Mission Models Paints (www.missionmodelsus.com) Abteilung 502 (www.abteilung502.com) Tamiya acrylic paint (www.hobbyco.net) Mr. Hobby acrylic paint (www.albionhobbies.com) Gators Grip ‘Thin Blend’ glue (www.gatorsmask.com) Alclad II Metallic paint (www.alclad2.com) AMMO-MIG: (www.migjimenez.com) Microscale Industries (www.microscale.com) Jammydog Micro Masking Tape (www.jammydog.com) Eduard (www.eduard.com) Little-Cars lenses (www.modellingtools.co.uk) Micro-mesh (www.gcabrasives.co.uk) Humbrol paint (www.humbrol.com) CMK kits (www.cmkkits.com)

 Masking commenced with the intakes (these needed protection as the inner camouflage colours had been applied earlier), and the ‘goldfish bowl was covered via three 2mm strips of blue Jammydog tape, infilled with Tamiya tape.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 45

INTERMEDIATE BUILD BAC CANBERRA B.2

Aileron trim tabs, cut from 2mm plastic strip, were fitted to the trailing edges, and any accidently filled panel lines restored with a scribing tool.

 A raised step was apparent along both wing/fuselage joins, so a fresh scalpel blade removed excess plastic from this area, followed by more wet sanding and the restoration of any damaged panel lines.  Extra Dark Sea Grey was employed as a pre-shade, being applied to panel lines and in a random fashion across areas of the airframe.

 Alclad’s Grey Primer and Microfiller was applied to all areas, followed by wet sanding to check for blemishes. Once any grit and sanding residue had been removed, the model was re-primed and the process repeated.

were to hand and used during this build (note there are currently no aftermarket 1/72 Canberra B.2 wheels). The nosewheels were also incorrect, being too small in diameter and not displaying the ‘dished’ appearance of the real items, so replacements from CMK’s Quick & Easy set Q72 121 were used. Oddly, the characteristic nosewheel mudguards were also omitted, but these were sourced from the spares box.

Camo conundrum Alclad’s ALC-302 Grey Primer/ Microfiller acted as a base coat,

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Airfix Model World

before a light pre-shade of H332 Extra Dark Sea Grey was applied along panel lines and in a random fashion over the entire airframe, concentrating on hinge points and any moving surfaces. The model was then polished with various grades of Micro-Mesh cloth to remove any residual dust and grit, in preparation for the camouflage. Light Aircraft Grey was airbrushed on the undersides and (using online photo references), various panels were masked and treated to a lightened/darkened mix of the base tone. Prior to the upper colour being

applied, it was necessary to mask the hard-edged camouflage demarcation lines along the fuselage sides and wing-tip tank, and for this, AP drawings were sourced via the IPMS Canberra SIG website. Tamiya’s 2mm Masking Tape for Curves (87177) was employed here; where the camouflage lines curved into the fuselage, and along the engine nacelles, inner sides of the wing tanks and wing leading/trailing edges, additional masking tape was cut to shape and applied in separate sections. Each part was then copied and cut in reverse to

ensure uniformity. Dark Sea Grey was applied to the upper surfaces, followed by more masking and the lightening of selected panels via the addition of a few drops of XF-2 White…more of this colour was added until the tonal variation took on a realistically weather-beaten appearance. Finally, a much lighter hue was mixed and applied along the fuselage and engine nacelle tops, as these areas would naturally reflect more light. After studying RAF aircraft for many years, it

INTERMEDIATE BUILD BAC CANBERRA B.2

was apparent that certain matt green paint finishes weathered quickly to different tones. Often, aircraft painted in RAF Dark Green took on a brownish hue and to replicate this trait, it was found that H78 Olive Green gave satisfactory results. Examining the kit colour guide, it was noted the top-side view did not match

that of the profile, with engine nacelles depicted in green on the latter and grey in the former. Fortunately, the UK Canberra SIG came to the rescue once more, with quality drawings of the original camouflage pattern (see References panel), which proved invaluable. As the demarcation lines were

mostly soft-edged, White Tack worms set the pattern, with gaps filled with Tamiya tape and tissue paper. Remaining exposed areas were pre-shaded XF-68 NATO Brown, which complemented the Olive Green top colour. Care was needed to ensure the spray was directed over the top of the White Tack rather than into it, to achieve

a soft edge. With the masking removed, the model was polished with a dry cotton cloth to remove any lingering grit particles. The undercarriage bays were then masked and sprayed XF-2 White, which was correct for the chosen airframe, and the model treated to two coats of MMA-006 Gloss Clear Coat prior to decaling.

 The process was repeated for the upper surfaces, but a lighter mix was applied to panels and along the top of the fuselage and engine nacelles, as these areas appeared naturally lighter on real aircraft.

 The underside received thin coats of Light Aircraft Grey, allowing parts of the pre-shade to show through. This added depth to the otherwise uniform grey finish.

 Inspired by online reference photos, various panels were masked and a lightened/darkened mix of the Light Aircraft Grey base colour applied. Darker tones were used inboard of the engine nacelles, as these were the areas of deepest shadow.

 Due to an erroneous camouflage pattern in the painting guide, a correct schematic was provided by the IPMS (UK) Canberra SIG. White Tack worms set the shape, and were infilled with Tamiya tape. The layout could be reworked easily to match photos of the real aircraft. www.airfixmodelworld.com 47

INTERMEDIATE BUILD BAC CANBERRA B.2

“Overall, this was a highly enjoyable project with the quality and fit of parts belying the kit’s short-run nature”

Free transfer

 After the green was applied, a lighter mix of the base colour was airbrushed along panel lines, with a further lightened shade used to highlight weather-worn/replaced panels.  In preparation for decaling, the model was polished with 10,000-grade Micro-Mesh cloth, which removed any grit and provided a smooth surface for the gloss coat to follow.

With the Canberra being such a widely used and often colourful beast, the markings chosen for this release were somewhat muted. Just one kit option was available, that of WK162/CA, 100 Squadron, based at RAF Marham in November 1980. This was not such a problem as, with many aftermarket decals available (some exotic), the modeller is spoilt for choice. The overall quality of the decals was superb, though care was needed in their application due to the extremely thin carrier film — annoyingly, a few rolled into a seemingly hopeless knot. A quick dunk in tepid water, though, soon straightened them, and they were again fit for purpose...but there were also issues with accuracy. For some reason, the kit fin flashes were cut diagonally across their bases instead of being in the traditional

oblong shape, so were replaced from the spares box. Another problem concerned the wing walkway lines, which should have been yellow with red hatching; unfortunately, they were represented as solid

48

Airfix Model World

black lines (the guide also showed them on top of the wing roundels, rather than just to the edges). Luckily, Modeldecal supplies them in the correct style on sheet MD085 (available from www. hannants.co.uk). Canberras weathered heavily over time…hardly surprising for an aircraft that soldiered on for more than 50 years, despite repaints. Heavy soot deposits formed on the forward fuselage sides due to the engine cartridge start system, and airflow grime accumulated over many surfaces, particularly along upper and lower nacelle surfaces, inner and outer flaps, and along the bomb bay doors. Weathering was achieved with MIG Productions PO2 Black Smoke pigment powder, ground graphite powder and Abteilung502 ABT007 Raw Umber, the latter thinned with ABT112 Matt Effect Thinner. The pigments were applied with a round brush, then

INTERMEDIATE BUILD BAC CANBERRA B.2  Unfortunately, the kit provided black walkway lines, which were incorrect for Canberra B.2s. Modeldecal provided the correct yellow/ red striped lines, and these were used instead.

 The kit wheels were replaced with aftermarket items, as the main units featured incorrect hubs, while the nosewheels were undersized with raised hubs…whereas CMK’s parts replicated the correct ‘dished’ type.

References IPMS (UK) Canberra SIG (www.ipmscanberrasig.webs.com)

any excess residue was blown away, before being worked gently into the paintwork. Raw Umber was applied with a flat brush, left for several minutes and then removed via a thinner-moistened cotton bud.

Aeroguide 7 Canberra: EE Canberra B Mk.2/T Mk.4, by Roger Chesneau (Linewrights), ISBN: 978-0-94695-806-1 Airfix Magazine October 1973 (inc Canberra history, modelling suggestions and drawings)

Final refinement All that remained were the finer details not included in the kit. All Canberra versions had various aerial fits throughout their long careers and the B.2 was no exception. In the 1980 time-frame, a yellow blade aerial was located on top of the rear fuselage, behind which was a red anti-collision light. Ahead of the blade and offset to the left was a small triangular Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) aerial, and under the rear fuselage sat another anti-collision light, along with a centrally mounted IFF aerial. An additional yellow blade antenna was located on the forward left side of the bomb bay door, with a further IFF aerial under the nose. Each engine intake fairing had a pair of

 An overall satin varnish coat was applied, before certain areas were buffed lightly with dry tissue to add a slight sheen. With painting completed, the undercarriage, wing-tip tanks, anti-collision lights and aerials were added.

starter system exhaust ports at odd opposing angles; these were reproduced by S&M as shallow indentations. Each was part-drilled with a 2mm micro-drill bit, with 3mm PE rings fitted to represent the metal ports. Finally, the nose pitot was fabricated from 0.5mm plastic rod, painted NATO Black, and positioned in the nose glazing.

Top bombing Overall, this was a highly enjoyable project with the quality and fit of parts belying the kit’s short-run

nature. Most importantly, it looked like a Canberra B.2 when finished, which will be more than enough reward for most modellers. For those wanting a truly accurate model more work is needed, and the kit could have benefited from better research in certain areas, such as the wheels, decals and camouflage pattern. With the T.4 version also available (and a PR.3 and/or PR.7 in the offing), we can look forward to further versions of the faithful ‘goldfish-bowl Cranberry’ in the future.

Black Box Canberras: British Test and Trials Canberras 1951-1994, by Dave Foster (Hikoki), ISBN: 978-1-90210-953-4 English Electric Canberra, by Roland Beamont and Arthur Reed (Ian Allan), ISBN: 978-0-71101-343-8 English Electric Canberra, by Bruce Barrymore Halfpenny (Pen & Sword), ISBN: 978-1-84415- 242-1 Modelaid March 1987 Canberra Datafile (inc history, profiles, 1/72 B.6/B(I).8 drawings) On Target Profiles 7 English Electric Canberra Part 1: Bomber Canopy Variants in British Service, by John Freeman (Aviation Workshop), ISBN: 978-1-90464-325-8 The Canberra Experience, by Steve Beeny (self-published), ISBN: 978-0-692-78094-7 Warbirds Illustrated 51, Canberra and B-57, by Ken Delve (Arms & Armour), ISBN: 978-0-85368-902-7 Warpaint 60 English Electric Canberra, by Charles Stafrace (Guideline) Warplane 09 English Electric Canberra, by Mick Gladwin (Lanasta), ISBN: 978-9-08616-169-0

www.airfixmodelworld.com 49

CUTAWAY ARTWORK CANBERRA B.2

CANBERRA B.2 1

Port elevator

22

Rear fuselage access door

2

Port tailplane

23

Spare starter cartridges

3

Rudder balance horn

24

Rear fuselage joint

4

Rudder trim tab

25

Bomb recording camera

Trim tab hinge mechanism

5

Rudder construction

6

Tail navigation light

7

26 27 28

Bomb bay door jack Bomb bay door (open) Rear spar double bulkhead

8

Tailcone

29

Rear fuel tank bay

9

Spring tab

30

Bomb bay roof construction

10

Starboard elevator

31

Inboard flap (lowered)

44

Port Rolls-Royce Avon 101 engine

45

Engine starter fairing

46

Engine cowlings

47

Accessory gearbox

48

Leading edge equipment bay

49

Air conditioning plant

50

Port undercarriage bay (wheel shown retracted)

51

Mainwheel attaching fuselage frame

11

Elevator hinge control

32

Flap control motor

52

Fuselage keel box

62

Plotting table

12

Tailplane incidence jack

33

Inboard wing construction

53

Forward fuel tank bay

63

13

Tailplane bracing strut

34

Engine exhaust nozzle

54

14

Tailplane construction

35

Tailpipe/duct construction

Fuselage frame and stringer construction

Navigator’s radar and instrument displays

64

15

Elevator horn balance

36

Outboard flap control monitor

55

Fuel tank front bulkhead

One-piece cockpit canopy cover

16

Fin spar attachment

37

Wing stringer construction

56

Equipment bay access hatch

65

Pilot’s ejection seat

17

Wooden fin construction

38

Air brake jack mechanism

57

Oxygen cylinders

66

Direct vision window

18

Fin root fairing

39

Aileron tab

67

Throttles

19

Tailplane control rods

40

Port aileron

Fuel vent pipe

41

20 21

50

Rear fuselage frame construction

Airfix Model World

58

Radio and electronics equipment bay

68

Control column

Auxiliary fuel tank

59

Rear pressure bulkhead

69

Pilot’s instrument panel

42

Wingtip navigation light

60

Navigator’s ejection seat

70

Rudder pedals

43

Leading-edge construction

61

Cabin roof escape hatch

71

Prone bombing position

CUTAWAY ARTWORK CANBERRA B.2

72

Bombsight

81

Twin nosewheels

89

Starter fairing

73

Pitot tube

82

Battery compartment

90

74

Bomb-aiming window

83

Bomb bay door, forward end

Starboard Rolls-Royce Avon 101 engine

75

Cockpit floor

84

Leading-edge equipment bay

76

Entry door

77

Electrical equipment

78

Bombardier’s ejection seat

79

Nosewheel bay

80

Radio equipment bay access door

85

Electrical generating equipment

91

Bleed air valves

92

Front engine mounting

93

Engine main mounting frame

86

Starboard main undercarriage bay

94

Spar ring frame

87

Main spar attachment

95

Main spar

88

Engine air intake

96

Leading-edge rib construction

97

Navigation light

98

Starboard wingtip construction

99

Tip-tank attachment

100

Fuel filler cap

101

Tank navigation light

102

Auxiliary fuel tank

103

Starboard aileron

104

Aileron construction

105

Aileron tab

106

Shrouded aileron balance

107

Wing rib construction

108

Starboard airbrake (extended)

109

Jet pipe duct

110

Outboard flap (lowered)

111

Engine exhaust nozzle

112

Rear spar ring frame

113

Inboard wing section construction

114

Trailing edge flap shroud

115

Inboard flap (lowered)

116

Rear spar attachment

www.airfixmodelworld.com 51

PHOTO FOCUS CANBERRA B.2

1

‘CRANBERRY’

STRIKES A POSE

We explored Key Publishing's archive for these fascinating Canberra B.2 photos 2

3

52

Airfix Model World

PHOTO FOCUS CANBERRA B.2

1 This wonderful shot of a 12 Squadron Canberra B.2 was taken during a 24,000mile (38,624km) RAF tour of Latin America, which began on October 20, 1952..with export sales in mind. Note the Binbrook Station flash on the nose. 2 English Electric Chief Test Pilot Roland Beamont at the controls of the first Canberra B.2, VX165. The panel with small windows behind the cockpit would be jettisoned in the event of rear crew ejection. (all Key Collection)

3 Taken in July 1993, this photo shows 231 OCU Canberra B.2 WJ731/BK; the unit’s usual leopard badge was replaced by RAF Wyton’s station crest to mark the last flight of the B.2 in RAF service. 4 Pristine Belfast-built B.2s await flight testing at Short’s hangar, Aldergrove, Northern Ireland in 1954. The aircraft are finished in High Speed Silver. 5 Proud of their new mount, these aircrew stand by B.2 WD948, one of the first batch of Canberras delivered to 101 Squadron, RAF Binbrook, Lincolnshire. The image is dated January 8, 1952, and the aircraft wears Medium Sea Grey over Gloss Black.

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PHOTO FOCUS CANBERRA B.2 6 Canberra B.2 WH727 is pictured most probably while in Aden, Yemen, during its service with RAF Khormaksar’s Station Flight. The unusual overall white scheme would have been to help reflect the harsh Arabian sun. 7 Canberra B.2(TT) WH734 was employed by the Royal Aircraft Establishment at Llanbedr, Wales, for target work. It wears the ‘raspberry ripple’ scheme common to RAE aircraft, along with yellow and black target-towing stripes. A typical load would be a Stiletto supersonic target (as seen here) under the starboard wing, and a Rushton winch to port. 8 This B.2 served with six RAF units in all, but here it sports the chequerboard tail motif of 100 Squadron. Armourers load a trio of 1,000lb (453kg) bombs into its belly.

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Airfix Model World

MIRAGE IIIE/5E ‘CYRANO’ IIIEA Argentina, 5SDE Egypt, 5EV Venezuela

HPK072104

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20/02/2018 10:08

OUT AND ABOUT BOLTON MODEL SHOW

 IPMS Lancashire’s Michael Daly super-detailed Airfix’s 1/24 Typhoon before finishing it in a suitably war-weary camouflage and invasion identification stripes.

Nature’s Marvel A

s the winter sun strengthened in late January, the annual migration of northern modellers to their first show was witnessed at the Macron Stadium, Bolton. Clutching the fruits of their winter modelling labours tenderly, they bustled into this new venue, marvelling at the huge open spaces, lack of snow on the ground and (unusually) above freezing temperatures. Such was the warmth, it might have even tempted a bolder southern modeller to the event, despite their usual emergence being in February. Tables and chairs were negotiated carefully until the local modelling clan, known as a Club or Special Interest Group, was

located, where they communed in ever greater numbers, discussing the merits of their styrene treasures. This was also a meeting place for the symbiotic ‘traders’, whose relationship with modellers

 Toby Knight’s superbly detailed Orange Hobby 1/350 Tarantul III was finished in Soviet Navy Northern Fleet colours and markings, before being set in this high-speed vignette.

 Three local Air Cadet units (1471 Horwich, 92 Chorley and 2050 Leyland) combined forces to produce a varied and colourful tribute to the RAF’s centenary.

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is both mysterious and baffling; indeed, several travelled great distances to experience this postChristmas splurge by those keen to further their kit stockpiles. Some, alas, having reached the

 Jedi wisdom was dispensed by Jeff Skitt’s rendition of the Screamin’ 1/4 Yoda, with much highlighting and shading to make the best of the vinyl parts, and a real twig used for the stick.

limits of their storage capacity, were noted selling their surplus, all the while casting a covetous eye on the traders’ stands for future acquisitions. The full spectrum of models was on display, covering every genre, with more than a few extolling the hobby’s fun side, with ‘Tiger’ tanks and a new take on ‘The Owl and the Pussycat’ mingling effortlessly with tenyear scratch-build projects and lifelike man-beast creations. All banter aside (and with apologies to wildlife documentaries!), Bolton’s annual show was a huge success, with initial estimates of more than 1,200 visitors. Next year’s event promises to be even larger, with a formal competition and use of the upstairs balcony and walkways, for more clubs and traders to display. Stu Fone

VIEW MORE ONLINE www.airfixmodelworld.com

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20/02/2018 10:13

INTERMEDIATE BUILD FORD ESCORT RS1600 Mk.1

Ian Grainger pays tribute to Timo Mäkinen, by building his 1973 RAC-winning Escort via Belkits’ 1/24 kit

F

innish rally legend Timo Mäkinen died last year, leaving behind a legacy of wins from an era when ‘road’ cars could be driven harder and faster in abnormal

Blue oval in a box conditions, than a ‘normal’ driver could perform in perfect weather. These iconic cars bore more relevance to public vehicles than any modern World Rally Championship machine, which

 In a first for Belkits, the decals for the Escort kits were produced by Cartograf, and as such were superb additions to the overall package.

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Motoring Corporation stable of Austin Healey 3000 and Mini Cooper 1275 S, then culminated in a factory Ford deal. Behind the wheel of one of Ford’s RS1600 Escorts, he dominated the RAC Rally between 1973 and 1975, alongside British co-driver Henry Liddon. Belkits’ boxing of his 1973 RAC-winning Escort was an obvious choice with which to pay homage to a man, described by those who knew him, as the “rally drivers’ rally driver”.

possess just a superficial resemblance to their road-going original…and very few parts from the factory itself. Timo’s career began in a Triumph TR3, moved on through the British

 Belkits supplied a small PE set including belt hardware, brake disc faces and grilles.

Upon receipt of the review kit, the first thing noted, other than the striking action photograph of the pastel blue and white rally machine, was the official licence hologram and sticker from Ford. This isn’t something taken lightly by a manufacturer, and the product in question definitely represented the quality required for such backing. On closer inspection of the contents, it comprised 144 parts, spread across six runners; three in white styrene, one clear (for glazing), another in chrome plate for lamps and bumpers, and one of vinyl/rubber for the mud flaps, plus two sets of four tyres (with different treads) in the same material. The body shell came packaged in a separate miniature card box to prevent damage,

INTERMEDIATE BUILD FORD ESCORT RS1600 Mk.1

 The body was secured on a Tamiya Spray Works Painting Stand for primer application. Several holes were pre-drilled to accept items for the final build.

 To make the steering wheel appear more realistic, holes were drilled in the spokes before it was added to the dash, prior to painting.

 Similarly, the interior ‘tub’ had the sturdy roll cage constructed and fitted in advance of priming.

 After priming, Zero Paints’ ZP-1317 Ford Olympic Blue was applied over areas of ZP-1332 Ford Diamond White, which was masked in stages.

and all runners were bagged separately, to avoid scratches. The mouldings were excellent, with no flash and very little evidence of moulding flaws, such as sink marks. A major new

best in the business for decal production. A small photo-etched (PE) metal fret included details for the various grilles, brake disc faces, and seatbelt hardware. The latter

addition (for this manufacturer) was the collaboration with Italy’s Cartograf for the decals. This company needs no introduction to the modelling community, as it’s considered one of the

themselves were supplied as blue and black ribbon, contained in a bag with self-adhesive (white) window masks, akin to those in Hasegawa kits. A small sheet of self-adhesive

LDINGS “THE MOU T WERE EXCELLEN ”

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD FORD ESCORT RS1600 Mk.1

 With most of the main body glazing masked, more Ford Olympic Blue was airbrushed carefully onto the window pillars.

‘FORD’ emblems and mirror ‘glass’ completed the package.

Rally ready The kit’s mouldings were extremely crisp; however, minor sanding of fine seam lines on the body and roll cage was undertaken to clean the parts further. The first stages of the (comprehensive and clear) instructions depicted construction of the lower chassis. It was an unusual sequence; as it was considered more logical to deal with the

 With the masking removed, the black window framing and sun visors were hand-brushed with Abbadon Black.

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body, and pre-build certain major items for painting during the initial steps of an automotive build, and this was the approach taken here, in deviation from the instructions. Holes were drilled in the body forward of the windscreen as directed, for the particular left-hand drive (LHD) version, and another to accept the offside (right) roof aerial mounting. The rear vinyl/rubber mud flaps required fitting in the final stages, so appropriate holes were drilled, using these items as templates, since there were no moulded locating points. Attention then moved to the interior components, where the ‘office’ floor pan received the correct drilled holes for the LHD version; before the rear bulkhead was attached and the roll cage constructed and fitted ready for painting. Next the LHD dash was assembled, with 0.3mm holes drilled into the steering wheel spokes for added realism. Vallejo’s 73.600 White Primer (www.creativemodels.co.uk) was applied to the body, which was suspended on a Tamiya Spray Works stand, followed by airbrushing of the interior of the cabin roof liner, plus front and rear ‘bumper’ areas with Zero Paints’ ZP-1332 Ford Diamond White. This paint dried quickly, so with the relevant areas masked, several thin coats of ZP-1317 Ford

 The rear suspension components featured leaf spring units, to replicate those of the late-1960s-designed car.

INTERMEDIATE BUILD FORD ESCORT RS1600 Mk.1

MODEL SPEC

 The front suspension was steerable, but most of the detail was obscured by the crash plate. Kit-supplied PE metal brake disc faces enhanced both the front and rear assemblies. Ford Escort RS1600 Mk 1 By:

Belkits

Stock Code:

BEL-006

Scale:

1/24

Price:

£44.99

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

Olympic Blue were applied to the main body shell. Next, the front window pillars received the same shade, after the singlepiece glazing had been masked carefully. Once the latter was removed, the black framing and sun visors were hand-brushed with Citadel Abbadon Black…a welldefined ridge in the moulding made this much easier.

 Belkits’ rubber/vinyl tyres required heating in hot water to stretch over the ‘minilitestyle’ wheel hubs.

online.co.uk) was airbrushed at 12-15psi (0.8-1.1bar), with ALC106 White Aluminium employed for the lower engine block and its ‘crash’ plate, plus the rear differential cover. The brake components were coated with ALC-111 Magnesium, before the rear Bilstein shock absorbers received their trademark colour, replicated via Tamiya’s X-8 Lemon Yellow. With all components painted, the lower chassis assembly was constructed in accordance with the instructions. Next,  The completed lower chassis looked the part and replicated the original’s rugged structure faithfully.

DA IE L P P U S S IT K “BEL SMALL PE SET LT INCLUDING ABREE” HARDW

Getting on stage The pre-constructed dash and interior assemblies, plus several of the smaller suspension, brake, exhaust and drive-train components were separated from their main runners, suspended with a variety of hand holds, and then airbrushed 73.602 Black Primer. For the exhaust pipe, Alclad’s ALC-115 Stainless Steel (www.alclad2www.airfixmodelworld.com 61

INTERMEDIATE BUILD FORD ESCORT RS1600 Mk.1  The completed interior appeared workmanlike, with accurate details and accessories such as seatbelts and buckles.  Vallejo 73.602 Black Primer served as the base layer for the dash sub-assembly. This was then enlivened by dry-brushed Citadel Codex Grey and decals.

the PE brake disc faces were secured to their corresponding parts with PVA. The ‘minilite’ wheels received black primer and were then brought to life with ALC-117 Dull Aluminium. A wash of Citadel Shade Nuln Oil had a similar effect on the metallic chassis and wheel components. Once dry, an initial attempt was made to fit the tyres (supplied with the correct mud/gravel tread pattern), but on this occasion Belkits’ vinyl/rubber compound proved less than helpful, making the task impossible without

further application of physics. The obvious solution was to heat the tyres, gingerly, with very hot (almost boiling) water, allow them to cool sufficiently to handle, and then stretch over the rims. The wheels and tyres were then fitted to the lower chassis sub-assembly. Black interior components were rescued from their ‘scale blandness’ by subtle drybrushing with Citadel Codex Grey, and once the instrument dial decals were applied to the dash, the whole area took on a more realistic appearance.

TEL PIGMENT N E P “A E BODY H T D E D A H S LINER PANEL SHUTS” 0.05MM

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With the above areas dry, the interior, seats and dash could be airbrushed with 62.062 Premium Matt Varnish. The rear bulkhead stowage, supplied in vinyl/rubber, housed a bright X-7 Gloss Red extinguisher and Citadel Mithril Silver wheel brace. It was decided not to use the kit’s seatbelts, instead opting for Modeler’s Racing Harness 1/24 P501-1100 items (www.hiroboy.com). This proved erroneous, as they suffered from fraying, negating the advantage of their self-adhesive nature, and Belkits’ PE buckles were

employed successfully. With the ‘office’ completed, it was mated to the lower chassis and attention returned to the vehicle’s main body.

Refining the pace notes Alclad’s ALC-310 Klear Kote Gloss supplied a base for the decals, and Abbadon Black replicated the window framing, so once the main body was dry and ready for handling, the kit’s markings were applied. Mr.Hobby’s Mr.Mark Setter NEO and Softer NEO, plus gentle heat from a hairdryer, eased their positioning. The

INTERMEDIATE BUILD FORD ESCORT RS1600 Mk.1

MATERIALS Zero Paints (www.hiroboy.com) ZP-1317 Ford Olympic Blue ZP-1332 Ford Diamond White Alclad II Lacquers (www.alclad2-online.co.uk) ALC-106 White Aluminium ALC-111 Magnesium ALC-115 Stainless Steel ALC-117 Dull Aluminium ALC-310 Klear Kote Gloss Mr. Hobby (www.albionhobbies.com) Mr. Mark Setter NEO Mr. Mark Softer NEO Mr. Surfacer 1000 H-1 Gloss White H-12 Flat Black H-22 Gloss Clear T-110 Aqueous Hobby Color Thinner Tamiya (www.hobbyco.net) Masking tape (various widths) X-7 Red X-8 Lemon Yellow X-26 Clear Orange X-27 Clear Red 87003 Cement 87038 Extra Thin Cement 87070 Polishing Compound Finish 87090 Compound Applicator cloths Vallejo (www.acrylicosvallejo.com) 62.062 Premium Matt Varnish 73.600 White Primer 73.602 Black Primer Games Workshop (www.games-workshop.com) Citadel Shade: Nuln Oil Citadel Colour: Abbadon Black, Codex Grey, Mithril Silver

Cartograf decals were superb; thin enough to conform to the body’s complex curves, but sufficiently strong for minor abuse during their application, beginning with the main white ‘striped’ areas. Small RS1600 decals, located on the front wings, were laid on top of PE rectangles, giving them realistic scale depth. Upon completion, the milk sponsorship looked every part the 1970s period advertising campaign on wheels; Mäkinen’s milk float indeed! A 0.05mm Pentel pigment liner then shaded the body panel shuts to simulate scale depth. With the decals cured fully, Mr. Color H-22 Gloss Clear was selected to seal them, after which the body was set aside for a week, before final construction and handling. Small chrome-plated components, such as the rally lamp rear hemispheres, received a coat of Codex Grey, while X-27 Clear Red and X-27 Clear Orange breathed life into the lamps and indicators. Interestingly, many modellers have been compelled in the past to remove the chrome plating from components and re-paint. Here, the metallic finish was in keeping with the subject and appeared appropriate for the scale. Vallejo’s 62.062 Premium Matt Varnish was applied to the rally lamp brackets on this occasion. No adhesive was required for the main glazing, which snapped into place, but needed fettling to locate correctly. The

all-important, rear-view mirror received its sticker along with the lower front grille (prepainted white); fitted from the interior with PVA, and not from the exterior, as suggested in the instructions. Being the round headlamp version, the

appropriate lenses were also fitted from inside the body. As with the glazing, the main body had to be teased and stretched to fit over the lower chassis, but once located, looked perfect. With the varnish dried and body fitted, Tamiya 87070 Polishing

 Interior and chassis sub-assemblies mated with consummate ease, and this boded well for the body shell.

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INTERMEDIATE BUILD FORD ESCORT RS1600 Mk.1

HAS S IT K L E B “ THER O N A D E C U D PRO Y KIT” HIGH-QUALIT

 A Pentel 0.05mm pigment liner was employed to accentuate the panel shuts, after airbrushed Alclad II ALC-310 Klear Kote Gloss, which also acted as a decal base.

Compound Finish, with the corresponding 87090 Compound Applicator cloth, buffed the main components to a show shine. Abbadon Black simulated the ‘hole’ behind the main radiator grille; once this PE mesh was fitted, along with the headlamp shroud, the Escort’s iconic ‘face’ was there for all to see. All the remaining minor body components were then fitted (via judicious application of PVA) without drama. A neat feature of this version was the inclusion of the front vinyl/rubber mud guards, which sat beneath the front corner bumpers of the classic ‘Mexico’ style. The kit’s PE body fasteners were discarded

 The first Cartograf decals to be applied were the broad white stripes, which conformed well to the complex body curves, albeit with the aid of decal solvents.

 Similarly, the remaining sponsorship decals settled superbly, after which they received protection from airbrushed H-22 Gloss Clear.

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for more accurate items from the spares box, namely those produced by the presumeddefunct MRM international. Company owner, Mike Rosser, actually used to produce a limited ‘garage’ resin kit of the Escort Mk.1 in 1/24, many years ago. The final element was the radio aerial, which attached neatly to the offside roof gutter.

Rally round-up Belkits has produced another high-quality kit with its Ford Escort RS1600. The level of accuracy is a first for this subject in 1/24, making it the moulding of choice, and the manufacturer continues to improve with each

 The main glazing simply snap-fitted into the main body, negating the need for any adhesive…but care was needed to ensure the correct position.

release. Neat touches such as the moulded vinyl/rubber mud flaps and self-adhesive emblems, which elevate Belkits from a mere limited-run manufacturer, to rivalling the Hasegawa and Aoshima/Beemax ‘establishment’ when it comes to automotive subjects. Cartograf decals made the decorative stage of the build an absolute joy. Several after-market schemes, plus race car conversion decals and accessories are now available, so the longevity of this kit is assured. An automotive modeller with a few basic builds under their belt would have little trouble attempting one of these Escort kits. Belkits’ next release is the Opel Manta 400 Gr.B; one boxing is that of Jimmy McRae and Rob Arthur’s machine and is anticipated eagerly by this modeller.

 Once the front grilles and headlamps had been fitted, the model looked every part an Escort Mk.I, with the type’s characteristic ‘face’ readily apparent.

BASIC BUILD M48A2GA2 MBT

BUNDESWEHR PATTON Steve Abbey tackles Revell’s 1/35 rendering of the Bundeswehr’s stop-gap M48A2GA2 main battle tank

E

ven when the newly developed Leopard 1 was introduced in 1965, the US M48 Patton main battle tank (MBT) and its 90mm gun continued to form the backbone of the German army for many years. Although outdated by the late 1970s, significant numbers remained in service because its Leopard 2 replacement was still

being developed. It was therefore decided to upgrade the combat performance of 650 M48s, these being re-designated M48A2GA2. The original 90mm gun was replaced with the British L7 105mm unit (also fitted to the Leopard 1), while a new targeting searchlight improved night-fighting capability, and the commander’s position was

enhanced by a Leopard 1-style cupola. Delivered initially in 1978, the eventual arrival of the Leopard 2 resulted in the upgraded M48s being assigned mostly to reserve tank battalions and five companies of the German Territorial Army’s armoured reconnaissance battalions. They remained in service until German reunification in 1990-91.

What’s in the box This newly tooled model was supplied in one of Revell’s typical side-opening boxes, which contained 261 parts on six dark green styrene runners. The tracks and searchlight cable were supplied in soft black vinyl, and a length of steel wire was included for antennas. Building started from the

 Revell’s highly textured side and rear walls were attached easily to the base, thanks to the integrally moulded locating lugs…which formed a solid, boat-shaped hull.  Once the joins had been treated with filler (see panel), the suspension arms, along with lift hooks, stops and dampers were added and the whole sub-assembly was set aside to dry.

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BASIC BUILD M48A2GA2 MBT

 Several sink marks in the single-piece upper hull were treated with filler and then sanded…along with where the front track guard supports met the main deck.  After assembling the running gear, return rollers, and drive and return wheels, they were dry-tested, ready to be fitted later in the build after being painted.

MODEL SPEC

 To ensure a good join between the hull halves’ aft sections, they were taped tightly while the glue set. M48A2GA2 By:

Revell

Stock Code:

03236

Scale:

1/35

Price:

£26.99

Available from: Revell stockists

bottom up. Side and rear walls were attached easily to the base, thanks to the prominent integrally moulded locating lugs. Along with bolts, panels and inspection ports, Revell replicated the type’s characteristic cast surfaces with a distinctive roughened surface texture. While this looked good, addressing gaps in the joins required more diligence than usual (see panel). As noted on the instructions, several guide holes must be drilled before

 The textured bow join was treated in the same manner as the lower side panels, to restore the roughened surface. Note the additional filler on the track guard supports.

continuing with the build. During the project, it was realised Revell made a mistake on the herringbone-configured engine exhausts, in that there was one vane missing from each side… however, unless one is an expert on the type this omission is otherwise unnoticeable.

Attention then turned to the running gear, after which the suspension arms, lift hooks, stops and dampers were all added and then the whole sub-assembly was put aside to dry. All road, drive, idler and return wheels were neatened, assembled and test-fitted, before being painted and (in a departure from the instructions) set aside for later. Tamiya XF-67 NATO Green was used as a base coat, and the wheels’ rubber portions received Lifecolor UA733 Tyre Black.

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BASIC BUILD M48A2GA2 MBT

REPAIRING TEXTURED SURFACES Revell produced this model with a highly textured finish, to simulate cast items; unfortunately, this relief was lost easily when parts were mated, especially if the seams were filled/sanded subsequently. However, with just minor effort, this can be reinstated relatively quickly, with the added bonus of creating better joins.

 The turret exhibited the same style of textured surface as the main hull, to replicate the real unit’s cast nature. The separate components were aligned carefully, to ensure the best possible join, with a rigid sanding stick employed to remove any imperfections, before Tamiya Extra Thin Cement was flowed into the seam, after which the parts were pressed tightly together. 1

2 Mr.Dissolved Putty was then painted over and around all the joined areas, filling any apparent gaps, and after an hour, any excess was removed, which left a thin palecoloured residue. By this stage, while the joins had just about disappeared, so had the texture around them, and the hull was set aside for several hours to dry fully.

3 Next, Tamiya Extra Thin Cement was applied to the joins, which melted both plastic and putty, before they were blended by stippling the surface with an old brush, working on small sections at a time, to create roughened texture. A quick splash of paint revealed any need to repeat the process, with the advantage it would also lessen the textured appearance, so any imperfections will be reduced as well.

Fittings fun Revell supplied the upper hull and track guards as a large single-piece moulding. Unfortunately, there were several sink marks in this part, both under the guards and on the hull sides, which required filling …as well as where the front track guard supports met the main deck. Both upper and lower hull pieces were then mated and clamped

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firmly with strips of masking tape while the glue dried; the textured bow join was treated to the same technique used previously on the hull’s lower sides (see panel). Although Revell made a good job in replicating some

surface details, there was no representation of the periscope glazing, either on the hull and turret. Indeed, all the lights and their respective mountings were moulded in solid green styrene. Track supports and stowage boxes were then added, along with a variety of smaller, but still well-moulded details. Here a decision had to be made over whether certain hatches should be fixed open or closed, but as the kit lacked any interior, the latter was chosen. The gun travel lock was installed in the stowed position and the driver’s rear-view mirrors were also fixed in this manner, as both surfaces had a visible ejector pin mark.

All in a whirl Moulded with a similar surface texture as the hull, the two-part turret required several more holes drilled for attachment of Germanspecific parts. The gun mount was then sandwiched between the halves, as they were glued together. Split vertically, the L7 gun barrel didn’t have any mounting pins or holes, so care was needed to align the halves correctly, before fitting them to the gun shield. A certain amount of filling and sanding was needed subsequently, to obtain an acceptable result. Another slight frustration was encountered with the mantlet canvas, which was moulded flat, but then had to be bent around

BASIC BUILD M48A2GA2 MBT

the mantlet; due to the limited space between the latter and the turret, it restricted barrel movement severely. Sadly, the searchlight lens was moulded integrally with that unit’s front plate, and not as a separate clear part, so the doors were attached in the closed position and the connecting cable (made

from soft vinyl material) was set aside until after the model was painted. At this stage, the rest of the turret details were added, starting with the searchlight stowage box, which was fixed to the turret rear, along with both equipment racks. Hatches and the commander’s cupola were installed shut, although the rather simplified cupola-mounted MG3

KIT SCHEMES

machine gun wasn’t used. The two Wegmann smoke grenade racks (one on either side of the turret) were fitted next, each comprising four launchers, although curiously one was moulded on the support bracket itself, with the rest attached separately. Two jerry cans with integrally moulded holders and straps were also supplied, and these, along with the turret

grab rails, were fitted last. After unsuccessful attempts to pierce the kit’s antenna mounts with the provided lengths of wire, it was decided to fashion the antenna bases with filler. In hindsight, it would have been more prudent to use the unaltered styrene parts, which represented capped units (fitted when antennas weren’t installed on a vehicle).

To confirm alignment and fit of the vertically split main gun barrel, brown paint was used as a primer, which also highlighted any gaps in the seam.

Revell supplied sufficient markings to cater for one of four options, two of which were in standard NATO three-tone camouflage, and two in overall dark green. • Y-328642/+644, Pz.Btl 523, Heimatschutzbrigade 52, Lingen, 1990 • Y-732151/+723, Pz.Btl 623, Heimatschutzbrigade 62, Wietmarschen-Lohne, 1988 • Y-130667/+212, Pz.Aufkl.Btl 4, 4. Pz.Gren.Div, Roding, 1980 • Y-813938/+320, Pz.Btl 543, Heimatschutzbrigade 54, Hermeskeil, 1989

 The cluttered turret exterior involved a substantial parts count, with separate grab rails, stowage, hatches, and antenna mounts.

 With main assembly completed, the model received black primer, before the initial XF-67 NATO Green camouflage layer, which was applied in a series of misted layers. www.airfixmodelworld.com 69

BASIC BUILD M48A2GA2 MBT

REFERENCE The M48 Main Battle Tank in German Army Service, by Stefan Marx (Tankograd)

NATO standard Initially, after removing the wheels, the whole model was sprayed with Vallejo’s 73.602 Black Primer. When dry, all periscope and light fittings were masked and the first camouflage colour, XF-67 NATO Green,

applied. Thin layers were misted over the model, building the intensity so 100% paint coverage was achieved on the horizontal surfaces, while allowing a hint of primer to show through on the lower, and less well-lit places. Following Revell’s instruction

diagrams, areas to be painted XF-68 NATO Brown were masked with thinly rolled White Tack and tape, then airbrushed in the same manner as the green. This process was repeated for the final hue, XF-69 NATO Black. After each airbrushing session, any light

overspray was removed quickly with a blob of White Tack, before the paint had a chance to dry and was then retouched as required. The kit’s few decals were applied over a coat of gloss varnish, and these settled onto the textured surface without issue. As a final A handy tip is to use a blob of White Tack to remove any overspray before the latter has dried. At this stage, the painted camouflage looked quite vibrant, and didn’t appear to be a form of concealment.

In accordance with Revell’s painting guide, the upper hull and turret were masked with thinly rolled White Tack and tape, in preparation for XF-68 NATO Brown.

 The kit’s minimal decals were applied to gloss-varnished surfaces, before the lights were painted with red, orange or white, as appropriate.

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 To start the weathering process, AMMO-MIG’s Engine Grime was applied to accentuate raised detail and recessed panel lines…followed by the darker MIG Track Wash on the running gear.

BASIC BUILD M48A2GA2 MBT

 AMMO-MIG’s Dust Effects product was employed to replicate the type’s characteristic dustcovered exterior, and was brushed into nooks and crannies on the hull, turret and running gear.

A misted overspray of Dust Effects created just the right amount of weathering and unified all the underlying tones, muting any contrast between the camouflage shades.

 Reference photos indicated the track pins rusted quickly, so to recreate this appearance, Lifecolor’s Rust Base Color was brush-painted onto these items.

 The lower rear hull panels received a heavy application of Dust Effects, to simulate earth/dirt thrown up by the tracks.

touch, the vehicle lights were painted in their appropriate red, orange or white shades.

brushed into nooks and crannies, including tracks and wheels, after which a clean paintbrush, loaded with lighter fluid, was used to push the pigment further into any recesses. A thin layer of Dust Effects was then misted gently over the whole tank, with more layers concentrated at the front, sides and rear, where dust was seen to accumulate. According

Dust and rust AMMO-MIG’s A.MIG-1407 Engine Grime is a dark grey enamel wash, ideal for creating the appearance of soiled surfaces and accumulations of dirt, and this was applied as a pin wash,

highlighting raised detail and recessed panel lines. This was followed by a few drops of the darker A.MIG-1002 Track Wash on the running gear, to create areas of deeper shadow. Most reference photos showed operational M48s either covered in a layer of mud, or coated in a patina of pale dust. To create the latter, A.MIG-015 Dust Effects was

to several reference photos, the track pins quickly became coated with rust, and this was replicated with Lifecolor UA702 Rust Base Color, applied with a narrowpointed brush. Worn metal was then portrayed on the stowed tow cables with lead pencil, before the addition of the searchlight box and antennas were added to complete the project.

Patton ponderings By producing this important variant, Revell has filled a significant gap in the M48 Patton family. The textured surfaces

will either be loved or hated… but at least the effort was made, unlike other companies. It was unfortunate a clear runner containing searchlight, periscope glazing and lights wasn’t included, but careful painting should mitigate this. Overall, this model was a delight to build and, with its relatively low parts count was soon finished, and note that Revell also added an A2/A2C variant to its M48 range. www.airfixmodelworld.com 71

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ON THE SHELF BOOKS

AXIS SPOTTER

Topdrawings 45 Henschel Hs 126 By: Srecko Bradic ISBN: 978-83-65437-60-0 Price: £18.10 Format: A4 Web: www.casematepublishing.co.uk The Hs 126 was a much-employed reconnaissance (and light attack) asset for the German Luftwaffe during World War Two, but it also served the Hellenic, Estonian,

21 pages Spanish Nationalist and Soviet Air Forces, the latter by capture. This softback package in Kagero’s useful Topdrawings series offers great reference for anyone considering builds of the Matchbox, Airfix or Revell kits in 1/72 scale, or 1/48 equivalents by ICM, Fonderie Miniature or Vector. Twelve black and white elevation, plan, front and rear views in 1/72 give full appreciation of the A-0, A-1 and B-1 airframes and their nuances (such as different engine cowlings), and these are accompanied by similar in 1/48…but the inclusion of three large, separate folded sheets with 1/32 plans is puzzling, as there’s no kit in this scale as far as we are aware (scratch-builders could have a field day though!). Also provided is a sheet of vinyl glazing masks, in 1/48 and 1/72, for ICM and Matchbox kits respectively, and ten good colour profiles exemplify the different and attractive camouflage worn by the type. This is a handy and relatively inexpensive study of an interesting aircraft type. CC

LUFTWAFFE ARCHERY

Dornier Do 335 Pfeil/Arrow By: JR Smith, EJ Creek and G Roletschek ISBN: 978-1-90653-750-0 Price: £50 Format: 312x 235mm Web: www.crecy.co.uk Classic's second edition of its opus on Dornier’s Do 335 builds on the revelations of the first, yet adds even more previously unknown material. After an initial recount of Dornier’s earlier projects, attention turns to the Do 335, and its development

288 pages

is covered exhaustively, from initial sketches and test-beds, to the V- and M-series prototypes. Production machines then form the core of the book, augmented by operational records of fighter and reconnaissance airframes. While modellers in general will appreciate the content, the ‘whatif’ community will be enraptured over the proposed concepts, from ‘zwilling’ to jet/propeller designs. A chapter is devoted to Allied post-war testing, with engineers and pilots amazed by the type’s performance, and the volume is completed by sections on camouflage and markings, followed by a walk-round montage. The period photos are mostly superb and are combined with lavish cutaways and full-colour profiles, adding greatly to the engaging narrative. Arguably, the real gems are contained in the appendices, including a facsimile copy of the official Do 335A-1 Handbook, a detailed listing of all aircraft built, and line drawings (interior and exterior) of the various Do 335s. SF

FLAT-IRON STORIES

204 pages

Javelin Boys, Air Defence from Cold War to Confrontation By: Steve Bond ISBN: 978-1-910690-40-6 Price: £20 Format: 240mm x 160mm Web: www.grubstreet.co.uk The latest offering in the ‘Boys’ series examines the ungainly yet purposeful Javelin all-weather interceptor…the last aircraft to bear Gloster’s name and the mixed-bag result of ever-changing Air Ministry requirements. Known as the ‘Flying Flat-Iron’ and ‘Harmonious Dragmaster’’, due to its reluctance to break contact with terra-firma, the Javelin eventually became a flexible and effective resource for the RAF both home and abroad. It includes fascinating accounts from both air and groundcrew, some hair-raising, some amusing, but all leaving an overriding sense of affection for the beast. The author covers operations from the first deliveries in 1956, along with its initial teething problems, through to final withdrawal in 1968. Also included are accounts of

overseas deployments to Germany, Cyprus, Singapore, during the Indonesian Confrontation and Rhodesian unilateral declaration of independence. Operational flying, including air-intercept exercises, air refuelling, intensive flying trials and display flying that occasionally ended in tragedy are covered in depth, along with previously unpublished, high-quality colour and black and white photographs. This book has it all; the derring-do, professionalism and dedication of those that flew and serviced the difficult, but ultimately successful delta design. AD

NON-DELTA DASSAULT

124 pages

Cocardes No.1 Mirage F.1 By: H Brun, J Seguin, R Gire ISBN: N/A Price: €12 Format: 297 x 210mm Web: www.cocardes.com This new series from French publisher Dragoon Editions, edited by Hervé Brun, focuses on single aircraft types and the debut delves into Dassault’s delectable Mirage F.1. The bulk of the main text is in French, but basically describes each F.1 sub-type (A, C, C-200, B, E, CR and CT), and operators, before offering myriad 1/72 scale drawings representing each sub-type, along with a gatefold set of 1/48 views. Most of the drawings spreads also feature a photo, and the captions are in English to ease one’s understanding. There then follows a comprehensive colours and markings section, with many revealing photographs and colour three-views for different schemes; the bonus is Federal Standard and British Standard colour references are provided, and where

one user air arm relies on more than a single type of camouflage, this is also reflected by the artwork (South Africa and France being suitable examples). Colour illustrations of national insignia also decorate the appropriate pages, while a walkround chapter offers close-ups of this attractive aircraft. The softback book closes with a modelling section, showing available kits, accessories and decals. Magnifique! CC

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ON THE SHELF BOOKS

POLITICS AND VERTICAL LIFT

The Air Staff and the Helicopter By: Chris Gibson ISBN: 978-0-9561951-6-6 Price: £11.95 Format: 217 x 280mm Web: blue.envoy.services@ googlemail.com With a title that sounds like a surreal children’s novel, this latest in ‘The Air Staff’ series covers how helicopters have been operated, maintained and used by the British armed forces, and proves the truth can occasionally be far stranger than fiction. It’s a scarcely believable mix of an embryonic wartime concept,

national pride, an unhealthy dose of inter-service rivalry, and a boxful of political intrigue. The undoubted highlights are the ‘what might have been’ designs, such as the tri-rotor ‘Air Horse’ W.11T, Fairey’s various Rotodyne compound concepts and Westland’s impressive twin-engined W.81. Those are remarkably conventional, however, when compared to Chapter 5’s ten-engined Helicrane and BristolSiddeley’s BE-53 Pegasus-powered ‘Flying Pig’. It’s therefore something of a relief, when it’s realised all this was the precursor to the acquisition programmes for the Chinook, Puma and Merlin helicopters. Yet, in terms of intrigue, this is where the real fun begins, with shifting requirements, and cancelled and re-ordered airframes, before these types finally entered service; there’s even space to include the Chinook Mk.3 avionics fiasco. ‘What-if’ modellers will appreciate the various embryonic schemes (and what a display they’d make), while there’s plenty of material on serving rotarywing platforms; however, this is far more informative as a historical document. SF

WEHRMACHT WORKHORSE

Krupp Protze and Variants By: Sabot Publications ISBN: 978-1-947552-00-5 Price: US $18 Format: 279 x 218mm Web: www.sabotpub.com North American publisher Sabot has various useful imprints, and its Foto File range kicks off with this pictorial examination of the ubiquitous Krupp Protze truck. This was a hard-worked, sixwheeled transport and artillery tractor produced from 1936 to

48 pages

47 pages

1941. Used extensively by all branches of the German armed forces, the vehicle served in France, Sicily, the Eastern Front and North Africa. Sabot’s study involves black and white photos alone, without any captions, but the imagery is revealing indeed and will help modellers no end… particularly those embarking on dioramas. The latter would be well served, via the superb scenes capturing the human element; mechanics fixing an engine, a soldier sitting on a chair in front of a Krupp Protze while having a haircut, morning ablutions… the choice is splendid for anyone building kits by Tamiya, Bronco, Dragon, ICM and others. The three variants are the standard Kfz.70, Kfz.69 PaK gun-towing limber and Kfz.83 searchlight generator carrier. Thankfully, most photos are clear and sharp, and many show prime examples of how troops’ personal equipment and on-vehicle tools were stored, as well as the general patina induced by wartime operations. CC

CLASHES OF THE TITANS

80 pages

USN Battleship Vs IJN Battleship By: Mark Stille ISBN: 978-1-4728-1719-8 Price: £12.99 Format: 184 x 248mm Web: www.ospreypublishing.com In the years prior to World War Two, the barometer of a nation’s maritime strength was the number of battleships it possessed (and the size of the main guns). While wartime clashes between opposing battleships were rare, Mark Stille dissects the capabilities, tactics and training of the US and Imperial Japanese navies in his analysis of the two such events from during the Pacific War, at Guadalcanal and the Suribao Strait, both of which resulted in American victories. Each side receives equal treatment, beginning with an overview of the various battleship classes, which also highlights their strengths and weaknesses, before providing a brief overview of the strategic situation in the Pacific. The real meat of this book begins with the ships’ specifications, before delving into each side’s

training, fire control systems and tactics, along with profiles of the commanders involved in the two clashes. Both are analysed meticulously, from a recount of how each developed, to a statistical analysis of shots versus hits, and how luck often plays a significant part, such as when USS Washington, by then the single main US combatant, was missed by multiple torpedoes, despite minimal manoeuvring. While not aimed at modellers, it does provide a wealth of information, and is well worth a read. SF

LIGHT-FIGHTER LIVERIES

Spotlight on Northrop F-5E & F-5F Tiger II By: Alexandre Guedes ISBN: 978-83-65281-59-3 Price: £19 Format: 303 x 216mm Web: www.mmpbooks.biz The Spotlight series from Mushroom Model Publishing offers much inspiration for colour schemes worn by individual aircraft types. Here, it’s the turn of the much-loved and capable Tiger II, in

42 pages

single- and twin-seat form. As with other works in the range, the book provides port and starboard colour profiles and there are 21 machines portrayed in this instance; the only slight criticism is that none of these hardbacks supply plan/ underside views. That said, there is colour in abundance, due to the fact the F-5 served with so many air arms around the globe…a sure-fire route to non-muted grey schemes! Examples include an early service USAF ‘Echo’ model in aluminium and yellow/black fuselage and tail bands, a Swiss machine from Fliegerstaffel 19, which sports stunning 75th anniversary tail art, and a US Navy F-5N Aggressor in Field Drab, Sand and Green ‘crackle’. Other highlights are an attractive Tunisian F-5F and Singapore F-5T, the latter with special tiger artwork. Arguably the real gem, though, is the HESA Azarakhsh, operated by the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force. All profiles are accompanied by colour names and/or Federal Standard codes, and the quality is splendid. A fine reference for F-5 fans. CC

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 75

ON THE SHELF BOOKS

A REAL SCREAMER

Junkers Ju 87 Stuka By: Martin Derry, Neil Robinson ISBN: 978-152670-26-2-3 Price: £16.99 Format: A4 Web: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk Junkers’ classic Stuka needs little introduction, and this Flight Craft edition delves straight into its history and development, before offering a brief round-up of the type’s operational exploits on the Western, North African and Eastern Fronts. It’s accompanied by a splendid selection

96 pages of period photos, mixing air-to-air with ground-based shots; the latter include a welcome sprinkling of maintenance-orientated scenes. There’s a comprehensive guide to colours and markings, backed by three two-view drawings and more than 40 profiles, covering everything from early splinter to winter distemper and late-war wave-pattern/scribble camouflage. Well-known airframes, such as a snake-adorned desert-livery 6./ StG 2 Ju 87B-2, sit alongside those operated by Romania, Hungary, Spain and Yugoslavian Partisans. Export machines are also addressed, and these add welcome splashes of colour. The final third is dedicated to modelling, beginning with a fairly well-balanced review section, covering all major releases of 1/144, 1/72, 1/48, 1/32 and 1/24 kits, although certain Hasegawa, Trumpeter and Airfix offerings receive more attention than others. However, the build element is confusing, with no clear introduction or delineation between models, and is let down in places by the photography, with poor lighting and depth of field issues. SF

ALL HAIL THE WHALE

Douglas A3D Skywarrior By: Charles Stafrace ISBN: N/A Price: £19 Format: A4 Web: guidelinepublications.com As Guideline’s book states, the Skywarrior became successful in roles for which it wasn’t designed. Its ubiquity, though, makes it a fascinating subject, so it’s baffling it took so long for manufacturers to provide kits; for many years, the only option was Rareplanes’ 1/72 vacform. Hasegawa eventually took the plunge in the same

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scale, from 1997 onwards, then Trumpeter issued 1/48 sub-types in 2013. The latter do sport errors, so this new Warpaint title will help in assessing accuracy. It is pleasing to see a more expansive study of the type (in comparison to other subjects tackled by the series), and besides the many excellent colour photos, other features such as tables on carrier air wing deployments, specifications, US Navy carriers with Skywarriors, individual sub-types, KA-3B/ EKA-3B serials and production blocks all help in understanding the subject. The canopies diagram is a boon, considering the errors that crept into Trumpeter’s kits; walk-round photos offer close-up snapshots of structural/internal details and a modelling-focused list pinpoints kits, decals and accessories. Charles Stafrace’s text is generally lucid and offers informative and interesting narrative, the 35 colour profiles are of good quality, and there is also a set of 1/72 plans glued into the binding (one must cut these out to open the sheet fully). CC

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

FRIEDRICH TO KONRAD

The Messerschmitt Bf 109 Late Series By: Richard A Franks ISBN: 978-0-9957773-0-9 Price: £19.95 Format: A4 Web: www.valiant-wings.co.uk Compared to earlier Airframe and Miniature releases, this is a much-expanded volume, to allow for the copious (and occasionally contradictory) material on late Bf 109s (F through to K and the prototype Z-series) and the multitude of kit and aftermarket products. It’s split into Airframe

240 pages

and Miniature sections, with four chapters apiece, and comprehensive appendices for kit, accessory and decal listings, but several sections have been tweaked. Notably, Camouflage and Markings now features extensive narrative, photographs and colour profiles, covering all operators of the type during World War Two. Due to space constraints, not all kits are covered in the reviews, but others are addressed in the builds section, which offers a 1/72 Fine Molds Bf 109F-4, 1/48 Eduard Bf 109G-5 and Tamiya Bf 109G-6, and 1/32 Trumpeter Bf 109G-6. As ever, the walk-round photographs are superb, combining period and museum shots with maintenance manual excerpts to cover all aspects of the airframe. Modellers seeking to build multiple examples will enjoy the Collection chapter, which details the airframe nuances from V22 prototype to K-12 trainer; however, the real bonus is the fold-out 1/48 plans, with one example each of the F-, G- and K-series sub-types, along with insets of Rüstsätze/UmrüstBausätze field and factory weapon/equipment sets. SF

GALLIC FIGHTER-BOMBER

108 pages

Dassault Mirage 2000 By: N Deboeck, R Pied ISBN: N/A Price: €22 Format: 240 x 240mm Web: www.hmh-publications.com Having gained popularity quickly with its first two books, on the Jaguar and F-16, the Duke Hawkins series now tackles the Mirage 2000 in its different guises. The same approach is apparent; excellent coffee table-style views, coupled with a wealth of close-up detail…and while it’s not a new format by any means, it’s a winner nonetheless in reference terms. This publication opens with a variants guide and a pleasing photo of the French Air Force 2000D, painted to commemorate that air arm’s 1987 attack on Ouadi Doum airfield, in Chad (Syhart produces these markings, reviewed last issue). The 2000 is portrayed in all its glory here, via airframes operated by France of course, but also the United Arab Emirates and Greece, but sadly, there are no photos of aircraft flown

by other users such as India, Taiwan and Brazil. There is mention of subtype differences (2000C/-5/D/N etc), although arguably many readers would find more information useful…simply a minor criticism. From a structural perspective the photo coverage is unparalleled with what seems to be every part of the exterior airframe examined, and cockpit/ejection seat, undercarriage, open panel images also feature. Weaponry is shown too, as are some of the best French special schemes. Splendid stuff for any Mirage fan! CC

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ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS

PACIFIC THEATRE SNAKE

P-39K/N By: Eduard Item no: 84161 Price: €22.45 Web: www.eduard.com Eduard’s Airacobra has been around for 18 years, but still doesn’t disappoint. It sports plenty of refinement for its vintage, via engraved panel lines/rivets that arguably trump Hasegawa’s standard, and there are alternative Aeroproducts propeller blades, nose vents and gun barrels to reflect subtype differences. Eduard supplies the pilot doors as separate clear items, which just need to be masked and painted, and allow a clear view of the

cockpit features if posed open. Be careful with the wing roots though, as they need careful alignment (and possible filling) to ensure the correct dihedral. New decals provide the route to two interesting schemes, both representing the 35th Fighter Group while in New Guinea. The cartoon duck nose art on the second option is particularly large and very well rendered: • P-39N, 42-18805/95 ‘Toddy III’, Capt GA Hilbert, 41st FS, Tsili Tsili, September 1943 • P-39K, 42-4358/23, Lt W McDonough, 40th FS, Port Moresby, February 1943

ESOTERIC HIGH-WING

Howard DGA-15P By: Dekno Models Item no: 720700 Price: €36.50 Web: www.deknomodels.com A specialist with aircraft subjects, Dekno now offers this Howard DGA-15P, in vivid sky-blue resin. The latter is mastered and cast beautifully; mere hints of wispy flash are present on one or two components, but once these are removed one is left with well-fitting parts. The cockpit and cabin have full seating (belts cast in situ),

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1/72

control yokes for the former area and a decal replicates instrument detail. Resin transparencies are provided for the windows, cockpit glazing and landing lights, and the engine detail is worthy. Good quality decals for two wartime subjects are offered, both aircraft being in doped aluminium: • DFL141A, Forces Aériennes Françaises Libres (Free French Air Forces), Pointe-Noire, Congo, 1942 • NH-1, 29512/125, blind-flying trainer, US Navy, 1944-45

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

TINY ‘FRIGHTNING’

Lightning F.6 Royal Air Force By: F-toys Item no: 2400 Price: £19.96 Web: www.tigerhobbies.co.uk Platz spin-off F-toys has done a decent job in recreating this famous interceptor. The cockpit has a fair seat, an instrument panel sporting moulded dial detail, and the undercarriage is deftly moulded, whereby the doors are moulded integrally on the main units. A proper stagger is evident on the exhaust nozzles, and F-toys is to be commended for supplying two re-fuelling probes and pitots,

in case of breakage. Firestreak missiles and over-wing tanks are featured, but the bulged fairing over the gun (on the ventral tank) should be removed if modelling an F.2A. If building said sub-type, one must also drill gun ports in the nose and fill/sand those in the ventral tank. The decals are superb, with crisp squadron markings, walkways and ventral tank striping. Bare-metal, green/ grey and overall RAF Germany Dark Green are represented: • F.6, XS927/N, 74 Sqn, 1970 • F.6, XS904/BQ, 11 Sqn, 1987 • F.2A, XN791/D, 92 Sqn, 1976

WARHAWK PREDECESSOR

P-36A Curtiss By: AZ Model Item no: 7574 Price: £13.80 Web: www.azmodel.cz Otherwise known as the Model 75, the P-36A paved the way for the P-40. The former machine is represented beautifully here, with fine engraving and delicate rivets. Its double-row radial engine is well executed, as is the cockpit floor and instrument panel, the latter having moulded dials although no decals are provided. H-51A-1/A-2/A-3 formats

1/144

1/72

are catered for, via alternative prop bosses and gun fits, and the canopy, windscreen and rear glazing are all separate pieces. Three US colour schemes are present, and the decals are admirably thin, but there was a slight colour bleed on one of the ARMY legends on our sample. One of the choices is a noted Pearl Harbor defender with a kill to its credit: • PA 91, 94th PS, 1st PG, USA, 1940 • 48 15P, Lt Phil Rasmusen, 46th PS, 15th PG, Pearl Harbor, 1941 • 21, 28th Composite Group, Alaska

ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS

THE RED BARON RETURNS

Fokker DR.I By: Eduard Item no: 8162 Price: €29.95 Web: www.eduard.com Eduard’s Fokker is re-released in ProfiPACK format, with three styrene runners, a partially prepainted photo-etched (PE) metal fret and comprehensive mask set. This means one gets a welldetailed cockpit (including interior framework), with PE adornments offering extra refinement. Wing and horizontal stabiliser ribs are portrayed as engraved and raised lines respectively, which should ease painting, while the three-piece

engine is a delight. PE adepts will also appreciate separate cooling jackets on the paired machine guns. There are six schemes, including two for a certain ‘Red Baron’: • 425/17, Rittmeister M von Richtofen, JG 1, Cappy, France, April 1918 • 577/17, Lt R Klimke, Jasta 27, Halluin-Ost, France, May 1918 • 479/17, Lt A Raben, Jasta 18, Montigen, France, October 1918 • 213/17, Lt F Kempf, Jasta 2, 1917 • 425/17, Rittmeister M von Richtofen, JG 1, France, March 1918 • 564/17, Lt W Steinhäuser, Jasta 11, France, February 1918

LONG-WINGED SURVEILLANCE

RQ-4B Global Hawk By: Miniwing Item no: Mini309 Price: £8.80 Web: www.miniwing.cz While unmanned aerial vehicles may not be too exciting, they can be impressive, notably the RQ-4B Global Hawk, and even in Miniwing’s 1/144 offering it’s remarkably large. Comprising two styrene runners, it replicates an early Block 20 airframe (lacking the underside rectangular ground moving target indicator fairing), while the fuselage length and

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almost 11in (27.9cm) wingspan appear spot on. While the lower fuselage ‘cheeks’ are the correct long-style fairings, they lack the bulbous nature of the real items. Given the constraints of limited-run moulding, this is a commendable effort in reproducing the RQ-4, but minor tweaks are required for the intake and exhaust; several strakes and antennas must be added, too. The single scheme depicts an airframe from the 1st Reconnaissance Squadron, 9th Reconnaissance Wing, Beale, USA.

NIPPY GERMAN BIPLANE

Henschel Hs 123B-1 By: GasPatch Models Item no: 48096 Price: €45 Web: www.gaspatchmodels.com GasPatch has already kitted the Hs 123 A-1, but now also offers the B-1, with a new upper wing and markings. Echoing the first release, this is a sublime package with impressive engineering and clever fixes to certain aspects. The most obvious is the card jig that sets the undercarriage angle; spatted and semi-spatted wheels are provided, along with different lower wing undersides to accommodate each style. One can’t help being bowled

POCKET ROCKET

Me 163B Komet By: Brengun Item no: BRP144004 Price: €12.09 Web: www.brengun.cz Brengun’s newly tooled Me 163B is a miniature gem, offering two diminutive fighters in this great value pack, with a single runner of crisply moulded parts for each aircraft. For such a small model, there’s a surprising amount of detail, with a three-piece cockpit, separate wheel dolly and delicate

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over by the cockpit, with its super-detailed oxygen regulator and individual dial decals for the moulded instrument panel. Other highlights comprise working flaps (with ‘down’ indicators) and the splendid engine. In short, this is biplane nirvana, with extra photoetched brass details, masks and decals for five liveries: • +N, 10 (Sch)./LG 2, Operation Marita, Balkans, April 1941 • +N, 10 (Sch)./LG 2, Operation Barbarossa, Russia, 1942 • +4, Erg.St./LG 2, Operation Barbarossa, Russia, 1941-42 • L2+AM, 4 (Sch)./LG 2, Adolf Galland, Poland, September 1939 1/144

engraved lines on the exterior surfaces. One challenging issue with Komets, regardless of sale, is the aft cockpit glazing, and here Brengun has cleverly moulded a section of the fuselage integrally with the windshield. Decals are supplied for three machines, with split Swastikas: • +9, Uffz Kurt Schiebeler, 1./JG 400, Brandis, August 1944 • +13, 2./JG 400, Brandis, July 1944 • +1, Lt Reihard Opitz, 7./JG 400, Husum, 1945

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ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS

REVAMPED RECCE BIRD

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FORWARD-SWEPT GLIDER

LET L-13/TZ-13 Blaník By: Mark I Models Item no: MKM14495 Price: £11.80 Web: www.4pluspublications.com IMAM (Romeo) Ro-37 By: Special Hobby Item no: SH48183 Price: €37.50 Web: www.specialhobby.eu Classic Airframes’ A.30-powered Ro-37 Lince (Lynx) reconnaissance biplane reappears courtesy of Special Hobby. It replaces the original’s resin entirely, with a host of new items, and substitutes muchimproved styrene parts for the interior while retaining the photoetched (PE) brass fret. Surgery is needed to fit the correct engine cowling, but the cockpit is a veritable

feast of resin- and PE-enhanced detail. If one can get past the challenging wing/fuselage fit issues, this is an eye-catching subject, and the markings provide verve and colour. Four Italian/Austrian schemes are supplied: • 115-3, 115a Squadriglia, 67° Gruppo OA, Regia Aeronautica, BolognaBorgo Panigale, November 1938 • MM 10985, Österreichische Luftstreitkräfte, April 1936 • 31-4, 31a Squadriglia, 5° Gruppo OA, Regia Aeronautica, Bari, 1940 • Black 6, 103a Squadriglia, Regia Aeronautica, Abbyssinia, 1935

UNFORTUNATE AIRLINER

Avro Tudor IV By: S&M Models Item no: SMK44-16 Price: £48 Web: www.sandmmodels.co.uk Avro Tudors aren’t the most common subjects for kits, and S&M's resin and white metal ensemble is just the second of the type after Welsh Models’ offering. There are 28 crisp resin parts, and the only surface features are the flap, rudder and elevator demarcations…any representation of the Tudor’s rivetted surfaces would be difficult in this scale.

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The type’s signature ‘Wallace grin’ engine intakes feature on the four Merlin powerplants, and the props are cast integrally with the spinners. Wing-to-fuselage mating is via butt join, although there's a slight overlap with the trailing edge fillet, so caution is vital for ensuring the correct wing dihedral. Windows and cockpit glazing are supplied in decal form, along with limited airframe stencilling and company logos. The single scheme depicts the overall natural metal G-AHNJ, British South American Airlines, 1948-49.

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Mark I is renowned for its value products, and this two-kit package lives up to the company’s reputation, with each glider comprising a single styrene runner and a separate canopy. Small, but perfectly formed, there’s a sevenpart cockpit interior (including instrument panels), with the rear seat moulded integrally with the bulkhead. The wings are singlepiece items, with delicate engraved panel lines, and feature the type’s characteristic forward sweep. Painting is simplified due to the

SALTY BIRD OF PREY

SH-60 Navy Helicopter By: Revell Item no: 04955 Price: £6.99 Web: www.revell.de/en Revell’s Seahawk, despite being in an odd scale, represents splendid value; 1/72-class detail but in a smaller model. While the box simply says SH-60, it is in fact an SH-60B, and has most of that sub-type’s accoutrements. The sonobuoy panel is well rendered, and all panel lines are very fine (mesh grilles and tail hinge are deft indeed). Equipment

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extensive trim markings included on the decal sheet, and best of all, there are six colourful schemes: • L-13, R11, RAF Gliding and Soaring Association, Aboyne, Scotland, autumn 1980 • L-13, Red 21, DOSAAF, Aeroclub Novosibirsk, Soviet Union, 1970s • L-13, White 23, CVV-14 Gliding Centre, Italian AF, Frosinone AB, Italy, 1985 • L-13, Black 690, Limitary School of Aeronautics, Uruguayan AF, Pando, 2014-15 • L-13, Blue 08, Voluntary Border Defence Service, Lithuanian AF, Silute, 1998 • TZ-13, White 13, Air Force Academy, Brazilian AF, Pirassununga AB, 1970s-80s 1/100

such as the ALQ-142 ESM and ARQ44 data link fairings are present, as is the underside search radar, AQS-81 MAD set and Mk.46 torpedoes. No chaff dispensers or nose pitot tubes are provided, but the glazing is clear despite the thickness. The single US Navy low-vis grey scheme is enlivened by a black tail (with white/ grey horse artwork), and Revell’s decals are well printed, benefiting from gloss carrier film: • 162126/460/HQ, HSL-46 ‘Grandmasters’, 2009

Ju88 HISTORY | PHOTO REFERENCE | PROFILES | CUTAWAY ART Following the previous hugely popular works on the B-17G and B-25 Mitchell, Combat Machines Volume 3 explores the German Luftwaffe’s famous (and ubiquitous) bomber, the Ju 88, in all its variants, including the Ju 88B/ 188/288/388 and the fascinating Mistel combinations. Chapters on bombers, heavy fighters, night fighters and reconnaissance sub-types are included, along with a

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cutaway drawing provides an unparalleled structural view and there’s even a section on model kits past and present, accessories and decals. 84 PAGES, SOFTBACK

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ON THE SHELF MILITARY KITS

HELL FROM A HALF-TRACK

Sd.Kfz.251/16 Ausf.C mit 14mm Flammpanzerwagen By: Dragon Item no: 6864 Price: £59.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net Dragon has mixed runners from previous ‘251 boxings with new parts to provide this flame-thrower version. Often when Dragon does this, many parts are consigned to spares…but most will be used here. The 14mm flame guns are reproduced superbly and have the complete pump engine and hoses. Also provided is the rear

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7mm flame gun and its extension hose. The company’s slide-moulding prowess is evident in the superb rear tow shackle. Fine width-indicators are present, along with rifles, photoetched brass details and braidpattern/smooth hoses. The tracks are individual-link styrene affairs, which offer great refinement but are fiddly to assemble. Also included are three superb figures in DS Styrene, two with alternative heads. Three of the schemes are for unidentified units, but an overall Panzer yellow machine is from ‘Großdeutschland’ in 1944.

EARLY SCHÜTZENPANZER

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TINY TANK KILLERS

German 7.5cm PaK 40 with Soldiers By: Revell Item no: 02531 Price: £7.99 Web: www.revell.de/en This value set is ideal for modellers or wargamers and supplies 12 figures (sufficient for two full gun crews) and parts for two PaK 40 anti-tank guns. They are moulded in a soft styrene familiar to those who collected Airfix’s and Matchbox’s 1/32 and 1/72 military figures; flexible enough to cause paint to crack

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and flake if not prepared properly, but otherwise quite resilient. Each gun comprises nine parts, with a separate ammunition crate, while the crew (five on rectangular plinths) are in various poses associated with laying/aiming, loading, directing and guarding it. The components are moulded to a reasonable quality, but seams will need to be tided (although there is no flash). A single colour scheme provides for an overall German Grey PaK 40 and the crew is depicted in Field Grey uniforms, although several appear to be of late-war design.

NOTIONAL ANTI-AIRCRAFT

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German WWII E-50 Medium Panzer with 128mm FlaK 40 Gun By: Modelcollect Item no: UA72099 Price: US $21.99 Web: www.modelcollect.com

Sd.Kfz.251/1 Ausf.A By: ICM Item no: 35101 Price: £24.99 Web: www.icm.com.ua Kits offering the Sd.Kfz.251/1’s Ausführung A layout are rare, so ICM’s new item is welcome. It’s a real peach, with all the hallmarks of this particular variant, such as the tubular front bumper, frontal bonnet grille, external tool stowage and Funksprechtgerät ‘f’ radio set. A complete engine is provided, the suspension units are well rendered and there’s full interior stowage.

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Detail highlights are the troop section floor with its treadplate, the radio, separate vision hatches and a superb MG 34 with mount. The wheels are also refined, but the outer units are not quite recessed enough in comparison to those in reference photos. Ultimately, though, the kit looks splendid and will be much fun. The tracks are one-piece rubber items but do look convincing. All four vehicles are in the usual early war grey, and hail from the 1st Panzer Division, in France, Greece and Russia, in 1940-41.

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This is another ‘paper panzer’ project from Modelcollect, and it’s brilliant…mixing parts from its baseline E-50, Rheintochter 1 and 128mm FlaK 40 kits to produce this strange-looking self-propelled FlaK vehicle. Each individual element is a delight, including a miniature 1,200hp Maybach engine and cooling units, and a fully traversable antiaircraft gun. There are 11 styrene runners, separate upper and lower hulls and a small photo-etched brass fret (the latter supplies delicate engine grilles), with tracks provided as link-and-length items. Components for the vehicle and FlaK 40 appear to differ in quality (almost as if they were supplied by two different companies), but all parts are devoid of flash and sink marks.

Two notional schemes are supplied, and there are generic Balkankreuze and hull numbers, along with unit insignia for s.Pz.Abt.505 and Pz.Div.3 on the decal sheet.

ON THE SHELF MILITARY KITS

NIGHTMARE HUNTER

Jagdpanzer E-100 By: Amusing Hobby Item no: 35A017 Price: €49.95 Web: www.modellbau-koenig.de There’s considerable interest in Germany’s ‘what-if’ armour projects, notably the Entwicklung (development) subjects. Amusing Hobby’s impressive tank-killer features the 100-tonne design, fitted with a fixed casemate for the large 170mm main weapon. The pepper-pot muzzle brake will need the apertures to be drilled, as

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the edges are soft and several are represented as just depressions in the styrene. Otherwise it comprises six crisply moulded styrene runners, plus five for the individual-link tracks, separate upper and lower hulls and a small PE fret for the engine grilles. There’s no internal detail, but the exterior features convincing castmetal surface texture, and the weld seams are the late-war squared type. Four notional schemes are offered, with a broad variety of camouflage, and there are generic hull numbers and Balkenkreuz decals.

INSTANT TANK CLASH

T-55/T-55AM2 Main Battle Tank By: Plastic Soldier Item no: MODV15001 Price: £21.50 Web: www.theplasticsoldier company.co.uk Plastic Soldier’s T-55 might seem pricey, until one realises it contains five kits, each on a single styrene runner (sufficient for a Soviet tank platoon, plus a company commander). As with other releases, this variety is boosted by options for six different variants; Soviet T-55/T55A, Polish T-55/55A, Czech

15mm

T-55A and T55AM, and the instructions feature a handy colour-coded guide to each sub-type. This means there are alternatives for side skirts, main armament, turret armour, cupola, hatches, glacis plate, external fuel tanks, hull stowage and defensive aids systems. A basic olive-green livery is suggested, but most Warsaw Pact T-55s were generally standard KhS-5146 Camouflage Green (similar to wartime 4BO), although export machines wore a variety of schemes. Unfortunately, no decals are provided.

FROM SUB TO SHORE

IJN Special Type 4 ‘Ka-Tsu’ By: Dragon Item no: 6839 Price: £89.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net This new-tool release from Dragon is fascinating, as it depicts a Japanese amphibious landing craft designed to be launched from a submarine. The finished model will be sizeable (approx. 31cm hull length), hence the heftier price tag…but it is a lot of model and comes with the maker’s US Marines Guadalcanal 1942 figure set. One of the ‘Leathernecks’

has new hands, enabling him to hold a camera (also provided), as if in propaganda mode. Dragon’s slide-moulding is as impressive as ever, producing stunning detail on parts such as the propeller drive cover; the props themselves are admirably thin. Photo-etched brass axle washers and an exhaust mesh cover are offered, along with copper wire for the rudder steering mechanism, and one-piece DS Styrene tracks. A refreshing release, with great standalone and diorama possibilities.

ACROSS THE HAN RIVER

M4A3E8 Sherman ‘Easy Eight’ Korean War By: Tamiya Item no: 35359 Price: £39.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net This is an extension of Tamiya’s new-tool ‘Easy Eight’ first released in 2015, but with new parts and decals (and some from other Sherman boxings). One of the schemes is the standout feature, replicating the aggressive artwork of Rice’s Red Devils…the US 89th Tank Battalion in the Korean War, but structurally the kit is sound in detail, and easy to build. ‘Rubber-band’ tracks portray the T80 type, and the HVSS

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suspension units are well rendered. There’s a new engine deck and excellent mantlet waterproofing, fresh Korean War crew figures and even a bonus enemy GAZ-67B vehicle for huge diorama potential. Braided twine is supplied for tow cable and the .50 cal machine gun with ammunition box is superb, despite coming from a 1998 boxing. The GAZ off-road vehicle is splendid too, the seat detail being especially notable. The two Sherman Olive Drab liveries are: • 89/C7, C Coy, 89th Tk Bn, 25th Inf Div, Han River Basin, 1951 • 70, C Coy, 70th Heavy Tk Bn, 1st Cav Div, near Chilgok, 1950

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ON THE SHELF MARITIME KITS

REGAL BATTLESHIP

Kronprinz By: ICM Item no: S.016 Price: £22.40 Web: www.icm.com.ua Kronprinz was the final Königclass battleship, but is ICM’s third release of the type (after König and Große Kurfürst), sharing five of the six styrene runners (Frame G is tweaked slightly), separate hull, and deck sections as per the latter kit. However, a different components selection is employed, reflecting changes in the mast configuration.

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Either a full-hull or waterline model can be built (stand included), and the parts are moulded crisply. Although the major highlights are the decks and boats, the gun turrets and funnels are equally praiseworthy, with exterior bolts and rivet heads represented as extremely fine depressions. The single scheme depicts the vessel in 1915, but a grey monotone is suggested, whereas references indicate Kronprinz was probably painted in a two-colour livery; a lighter grey extended from the main deck line upwards.

SOVIET FLOATING ARSENAL

Petr Velikiy By: Revell Item no: 05151 Price: £29.99 Web: www.revell.de/en Dragon’s Kirov-class battlecruiser returns in a Revell box. Titled Petr Velikiy (Peter the Great), it contains sufficient parts to enable any of the final three ships to be built (Kirov had a different forward deck arrangement), with alternative close-in weapons systems, navigation/search/ target- acquisition radars, and countermeasures equipment. There are features to please even the most ardent detailer,

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and options for an open/closed helicopter hangar and two SS-N-19 Shipwreck launch tubes (including two full missiles). Perhaps the most attractive feature is the markings; the decals provide for three of the four Kirov-class ships, with Soviet and Russian options for two vessels: • 183 Yuri Andropov, Soviet Navy, 1986-1992 • 099, Petr Velikiy (ex-Yuri Andropov), Russian Navy • 085, Admiral Nakhimov, Soviet Navy, 1986-1992 • 080, Kalinin (ex-Admiral Nakhimov), Russian Navy • 050, Soviet Navy, 1984-1992

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MARITIME PLUMAGE

Royal Navy Peacock-Class Corvette By: Dodo Models Item no: 7006 Price: £25.21 Web: www.dodo-models.com Dodo’s splendid resin Peacockclass kit oozes detail, from the single-part waterline hull with integrally cast superstructure, gun mount, anchor chain pully and mooring bollards, to the delicate PE brass components and resin fittings. There’s an option for a RN or Irish Naval Service model, and there are additional

lifeboat canisters, satellite communications radomes and two 20mm cannon for the latter. While the highlight is the main hull, the casting of the other 45 resin parts is equally impressive, and in addition to the usual PE railings and ladders, there’s a complete lattice mast and yardarms, and boat mounts, seats and engines. There are markings for both RN and Irish Naval Service vessels, enabling any one of HMS Peacock, HMS Plover, HMS Starling, HMS Swallow, HMS Swift, LÉ Ciara and LÉ Orla to be built.

STEALTHY PATROLLER

Corvette 21631 Velikiy Ustyug By: Combrig Item no: 70377 Price: £36 Web: www.combrig-models.com Modern Russian naval vessels are fascinating, with several small corvette classes (such as the Buyan-M), punching well above their displacement and size (they’re armed with cruise missiles). Combrig’s delightful 1/700 resin kit allows any one of the first five Buyan-M corvettes to be built (Grad Sviyazhsk, Uglich, Velikiy Ustyug,

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Zelenyy Dol and Serpukhov) and, like the full-size versions, packs in a surprising amount of detail for its size. There are 44 resin parts and two PE brass frets, the latter providing all necessary railings, ladders, deck fittings, lifeboat canister mounts and missile covers; there’s even the cooling pipe for the 100mm gun. This can be built just as a waterline model, and the singlepiece hull is a casting masterpiece, with integral breakwater, cruise missile hatches and even recesses for PE components.

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WESTLAND SEA KING HAR.3/Mk.43

A04063 WESTLAND SEA KING HAR.3/Mk.43 • Foldable rotors

• Moveable main rotor blade • Optional open door • Highly colourful marking options

WESTLAND SEA KING HAR.3 No.78 Squadron, Royal Air Force Mount Pleasant, Falkland Islands, January 1991.

WESTLAND SEA KING Mk.43 No.330 Squadron, Royal Norwegian Air Force, 1996.

Length 307mm Width 262mm Pieces 135

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ON THE SHELF FIGURES

TAKING A KNEE

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Kneeling Soldier (on left knee) By: CMK Item no: F35323 Price: €12.50 Web: www.cmkkits.com

SWAT Team Fighter #2 By: ICM Item no: 24102 Price: £11.40 Web: www.icm.com.ua

Completing CMK’s figure grouping for the US Army 2nd Infantry Division M1126 Stryker, this M203 grenade-launcher-equipped soldier is depicted kneeling, but unlike the very similar 35322, this individual is resting on his left knee. This delightful resin ensemble comprises six well-cast parts; there is flash on the main torso/legs and weapon, but this should be a simple matter to resolve. The equipment fit is suitable for Afghanistan, Iraq or Korea, with Improved Outer Tactical Vest, side armour plates, knee-pads

COVERING FIRE!

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TACTICAL COP

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and MOLLE Large Assault Pack. The latter is perhaps slightly too square edged, and is missing the four compression straps (two on each side).

ARMOURED FAIRY

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ICM has followed its 1/16 SWAT figure (see Feb 2018 issue) with two releases in 1/24 scale. Despite being slightly smaller in size, the detail is just as refined, notably on the body armour and face. This SWAT team member is portrayed with drawn pistol and carrying a bullet-proof riot shield. There are three styrene runners (including a small frame for the two clear parts), and these offer a choice of equipment, with rucksack, radios, medical pack, three helmets and goggles. While at

SHELL-FIRING SHIA

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British Tank Man in ‘Pixie’ Suit By: Sovereign 2000 Item no: S2KW075 Price: £9 Web: www.sovereign2000.uk.com

Turkish Infantry (1915-1918) By: ICM Item no: 35700 Price: £8.50 Web: www.icm.com.ua ICM has done it again, with a great value figure and weapons set (just 51p more than the latter as a separate product), offering realistically themed (as opposed to generic) poses. This time it’s a World War One Ottoman Army section, comprising three rifleequipped Nefers (Privates) and a pistol-wielding Mülazım-ı Sani (Second lieutenant), preparing to advance; two soldiers are depicted running, with one providing covering fire and the officer urging them on. Each figure comprises at least six parts, with separate limbs, head and Kabalak (helmet)/Fez, to which weapons and backpacks are then added. The moulding is first rate, notably on the tunics and backpacks.

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British Army armoured vehicle personnel wore various uniforms during World War Two, with the 1943, Oversuit, Heavy, Tank Crew, or ‘Pixie’ perhaps the most well known. Sovereign 2000’s resin figure is part of its Wolf range, and comprises four cleanly cast parts, with separate head and arms. It is portrayed with one hand on the waist and the other holding a cigar, as if chatting or waiting for that all-important cup of tea after a battle, and features excellent detail on the coveralls, notably on the upper half.

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first glance there is a veritable feast of weapon options, one would have to cut the integrally moulded pistol from the right hand (Part A5) to allow any others to be carried.

DEPLOYED SOLDIER

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Rosomak Crewman By: Toro Model Item no: 35F102 Price: €12 Web: www.toro-model.com.pl

WWII US Tank Crew Gunner By: Mitches Military Models Item no: TC02 Price: £25 Web: www.mitchesmilitary models.co.uk Regular readers will have spotted Mitches’ resin likenesses from the 2014 film Fury in the Jan/Feb 2018 issues. The final member of the company’s 1/9 Sherman crew trio is replicated in this excellent bust of the character Boyd ‘Bible’ Swan, played by Shia LaBeouf. The light tanker’s jacket is rendered well, with convincing folds/drapes, a glimpse of neckerchief adds detail, and the helmet/goggles combination cries out for careful painting and weathering. LaBeouf appeared older in this movie, via a nervy performance, and the fact is recreated splendidly here.

Toro’s latest modern Polish figure depicts a dismounted Rosomak vehicle crewman. There are five resin parts; main torso/legs, separate arms and head and a delightful AKM rifle, the latter fitted with what appears to be a Beryl-style buttstock and holographic sights. Minimal neatening is required, thanks to the casting block locations, and the detail is outstanding, notably on the Hełm wz. 2005 helmet, body armour and webbing/load-carrying equipment. Recreating the disruptive pattern on the wz. 2010 uniform will be challenging, but thoughtfully, Toro includes decals for rank slides, national insignia and Afghanistan Task Force badges.

W 5A BAe HA K T.Mk.1A 8 0 3 A0

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ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS

SHAW, SPANG’ AND AVIANO JETS

Warheads on Foreheads: F-16CM Viper By: Bullseye Model Aviation Item no: 48-005 Price: US $18.99 Web: www.spruebrothers.com This appropriately named decal package concerns Block 40/50 F-16CM aircraft, involved in the following operations: Inherent

Resolve (against the so-called Islamic State in Syria and Iraq), Freedom’s Sentinel (Afghanistan) and Unified Protector (Libya). Bullseye is generous here, with markings for ten aircraft from various USAF units; all but one wear the standard FS 36118/36270 scheme, the anomaly being a Block 50 example in the new Have Glass finish. The research is mindboggling, as there are full details on war loads, structural nuances and kits. Two sheets not shown here carry stencils and national insignia. Options include: • 94-0049/SW (Blk 50), 5th FS, 20th FW, 2016 • 91-0352/SP (Blk 50), 480th FS, 52nd FW, 2016 • 89-2137/AV (Blk 40), 555th FS, 31st FW, Bagram AB, 2017 • 91-0403/SP (Blk 50), 480th FS, 52nd FW, 2016 • 91-0353/SW (Blk 50), 77th FS, 20th FW, 2015-16 • 89-2035/AV (Blk 40), 555th FS, 31st FW, Bagram AB, 2017

CENTRAL EUROPEAN HEAVIES

M47 Patton Balkan War & Peace By: Star Decals Item no: 35-C 1085 Price: US $5 Web: www.star-decals.net The new M47 Patton tank kits from Takom would be worthy recipients of these decals, but they’d just as easily suit older offerings from Italeri/Revell etc. This collection’s focus is on the vehicle while employed in the Balkans, through the Cold War to 1995. There is much more

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JASDF 301SQ 40th Anniversary F-4EJ KAI By: DXM Item no: 41-4114 Price: US $20 Web: www.dxmdecal.com Phantom fans looking for a colourful build subject have the perfect product in this sheet from DXM, which represents the dazzling 40th anniversary scheme of the Japanese Air Self Defense Force’s 301st Tactical Fighter Squadron. This was the very first Japanese Phantom

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unit, hence the 'Phantom Mother Squadron' legends on the F-4EJ in question, 77-8398, which is resplendent in deep blue paint, accented with white, orange and red trim on the upper wings and stabilators, and a vivid medium blue sunburst on the vertical tail. Gold lettering really adds extra ‘bling’…the Japanese never being shy when it comes to special liveries. Stencils and Hinomarus are also supplied, as well as the unit's famous frog badge. Mr. Hobby paint callouts are given. Stunning!

THE KING OF THE SEAS

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colour than on drab US-operated machines, with varying camouflage decorating the M47s represented. Alternative markings for the same vehicles also feature, although Star’s instructions are a little confusing and lack information. Examples include: • M47 Dozer tank, ‘Tucko’/’Azdaja’ 126 Sinjska Brigade (HV), Sinj, Croatia, 1991-95 • M47, 3770/3751, Jugoslav People’s Army, 1959 • M47, 3770/3751, Army of Bosnia-Herzegovina, 1992-95

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

FOUR DECADES WITH SPOOKS

Stencils for P2V Neptune By: Plus Model Item no: AL7021 Price: €12 Web: www.plusmodel.cz The re-release of Hasegawa’s ageing Lockheed Neptune kit has prompted a flurry of products from aftermarket firms. Plus Model's neatly printed decals will allow full stencil coverage on any P2V build, and one receives diverse

items such as propeller blade and warning stripes, ‘Rescue’ arrows, jet air intake warning chevrons, yellow ‘chop here’ segments, data placards and many more items. The markings are very thin, with gloss carrier film, so should adhere beautifully to a gloss-varnished surface. These markinngs are a fine addition to Plus Model’s other accessories for the type, such as its resin wing flaps, reviewed in February 2018 issue.

ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS

TIGERS OF ARAGON

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MAGYAR BOMBERS

Junkers Ju 88 in Hungarian Service By: SBS Model Item no: D72022 Price: €8 Web: www.sbsmodel.com Spanish F/A-18, 30 Years of ALA 15 By: Modelmaker Decals Item no: D72090 Price: €8.42 Web: www.modelmaker.com.pl The Spanish Air Force’s Zaragozabased 15th Wing (ALA 15) conducts a variety of missions with its EF-18As.

Modelmaker has picked one of the best schemes worn by the unit’s aircraft, in this 2016 NATO Tiger Meet guise. Airframe 15-01 was painted especially for the longrunning tactical/social event; it also marked 30 years of ALA 15 and had splendid tiger artwork on the outer and inner vertical stabilisers, and fuel tanks. This is a detailed offering on two sheets, with rich colour tones and sharp printing, and one of the sheets is Modelmaker’s standard Spanish Hornet markings; this provides extra codes so one can portray other EF-18s in the fleet if desired. Colour photos of the aircraft are also on the instructions.

NORDIC VIPER CELEBRATIONS F-16AM Fighting Falcon 331 Sqn RNoAF 60th & 75th anniversary markings By: Vingtor Decals Item no: 72-133 Price: €10.45 Web: www.vingtor.net If you are the type of aircraft modeller who likes schemes with a difference, Vingtor’s offering for specially marked Norwegian F-16s is worth considering. These liveries are a pleasing mix of standard camouflage overall FS 36270 and subtle colour accents, with the decoration centred on the vertical tails (one option also receives extra paint on its ventral fins). There’s a whole host of stencils and national insignia, and it’s worth stating that the

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artwork on the real aircraft was designed by IPMS Norway’s Kjell Arne Randen, and Vingtor proprietor Nils Mathisrud. The subjects in question are: • F-16AM, 660, 331 Sqn, 2001 • F-16AM, 277, 331 Sqn, 2016

If you like the Junkers Ju 88, but want something different to the Luftwaffe scheme-wise, why not consider a colourful Hungarian airframe, exemplified by the four Eastern Front options on SBS Model’s new sheet. It offers four choices, with the trademark green, white and red Hungarian stripes on the empennage, but winter whitewash comes into play

on two of the subjects. Different sub-types are catered for too, and the markings are also available in 1/48 scale (D48022). The options are: • Ju 88D-1, F9+15, pilot Főhadnagy Visnyei, 1/1 Távolfelderitő század (longrange recce squadron), Harkov, 1943 • Ju 88A-14, B1+42, 3/1 Bombázó század (bomber squadron), Russia, January 1944 • Ju 88A-4, B.4+09, 3/1 Bombázó század, Russia, 1943 • Ju 88A-14, B1+47, 3/1 Bombázó század, Russia, 1943

MORE LUFTWAFFE BOSS BIRDS Messerschmitt Bf 109 Stab Pt 2 By: Xtradecal Item no: X72264 Price: £7.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk A total of 14 options fills this Hannants’ own-brand selection for the Bf 109…a follow up to the firm’s first package for fighters flown by Stab (staff) officers. All three fronts are represented by the schemes here; Western, Eastern and Mediterranean Theatres, with a wide selection of camouflage. Desert tones rub along with winter whitewash, heavy mottle and even the inventive liveries of the ‘Green Hearts’. It’s worth checking the research for the North Africa schemes though, as Xtradecal quotes RLM 68 for the undersides, but RLM 78 was the traditional shade. Some of the choices are: • E-4, Black double chevron, Hans von Hahn, I./JG 3, St Omer, late 1940 • F-2, <  +, Tech Off Lt Detlev Rohwer, 1./JG 3, Ukraine, August 1941 • F-4, < II+, ‘Major Beam’

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Hptm Hans Philipp, I./JG 54, Eastern Front, 1942 • G-2, Double chevron – horizontal bars, Maj Johannes Trautloft, Kommodore JG 54, Eastern Front, 1942 • E-4,—A+ —, Oblt A Summer, Geschwader Adjutant, JG 26, Audembert, 1940 • G-6/R6, Black double chevron, Maj L Franzisket, I./JG 27, Austria, early 1944

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 89

ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS

ORANGE TRACK STAR

BMW M3 (E30) Jägermeister DTM ‘92 By: Decalpool Item no: DP070 Price: US $17 Web: www.decalpool.com

1/24 Designed to fit Fujimi’s 1/24 BMW, Decalpool’s sharply printed markings boasts accurate colours, excellent opacity and two liveries for Jägermeistersponsored participants in 1992’s Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (German Touring Car Championship). The BMW M3s were driven by Wayne Gardner and Armin Hahne, and numbered #20 and #19 respectively. ‘Pirelli’ decals are provided for the tyres, as well as all the necessary sponsor logos such as Bilstein, Castrol, Gardner, Baumler men’s fashion and, of course, Jägermeister.

INDIAN HEAD CENTENARY

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years of the squadron La Fayette, formed in World War One from mostly American volunteer pilots. This particular aircraft (which was also part of the renowned ‘Ramex Delta’ display team) has a black basecoat, over which the special red, white and blue design is applied…including the characteristic Native American Indian head profile, and a large ‘100’ motif on the underside. The quality of these decals is first rate, and the maker also supplies self-adhesive masks to aid in airbrushing the scheme. Whether one loves Armée de l’Air subjects, or simply special liveries, this package is for you.

Mirage 2000N no.353 125-AM ‘100 Ans EC2/4 La Fayatte’ 1916-2016 By: Syhart Item no: 72-098 Price: €12 Web: www.syhartdecal.fr Syhart’s sheet allows replication of the stunning French Air Force Mirage 2000N painted to mark 100

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View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

EMPEROR’S AIR ASSET

Kawasaki Ki-48 Sokei (Lily) By: H-Models Item no: HMD72099 Price: £7.30 Web: www.hannants.co.uk

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Ki-48 IIb light bomber. It’s a simple affair, with plain red (and whitetrimmed) Hinomarus, and beautiful unit artwork for two aircraft. One is painted in grey with green mottle, while the other sports solid green over aluminium, but both hail from the 8th Hiko-Sentai, during that unit’s operations in Burma, 1944. Ideal for Hasegawa’s kit, which is itself based on the 1970s tooling by Mania.

Fans of Japanese World War Two aircraft should be interested in this release from H-Models, which caters for the Kawasaki

AXIS HORNET Messerschmitt Me 410 By: Xtradecal Item no: X48185 Price: £7.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk Stashes will be explored…purchases will be made…that’s the undoubted effect Xtradecal’s new Me 410 sheet will engender for Luftwaffe modellers, who may already have (or need to buy) the appropriate kits. Hannant’s own brand offers variety in spades here, via a whopping 12 schemes; all are German save for the captured example flown by the Soviets. For those with Meng or RevellMonogram models, these alternative markings will undoubtedly cause much head-scratching regarding exactly which livery to choose. Examples include: • Me 410A-1, U5+FE, Rudolf Abrahamczik, 14./KG 2, 1943 • Me 410A-1/U1, F6+DK, 2.(F)/122, Arthur Kammberger, Italy, 1943

1/48 • Me 410A-3, 8H+WH, 1.(F)/33, Munich-Reim, 1945 • Me 410B-2/U2, M8+5, 6./ZG 76, Wien-Seyring, Austria, 1944 • Me 410A-1/U2, White 11, Rudi Dassow, 4./ZG 26, Hildesheim, 1944 • Me 410B-2/U4, WNr 130379, captured in East Prussia, testflown by Maj I Piskunov, Russia

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ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

THE NORDEN ROOM

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Boeing B-17G Bomb Aimer’s Station By: CMK Item no: 7383 Price: €9.30 Web: www.cmkkits.com Last month we highlighted CMK’s bespoke engine set for Airfix’s new-tool B-17G, and here’s another dedicated resin upgrade in the shape of that kit’s bomb aimer’s station. One receives the whole shebang, via a well-rendered floor and stepped rear bulkhead, seating, fuse/switch boxes, a fire extinguisher and that all-important Norden bomb sight. An easy, yet desirable improvement for those used to working with resin.

AEROBAT ACCURACY

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NOSE (GUNS) FOR TROUBLE

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SIDE SKIRTS

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P-38 Lightning Armament By: Master Model Item no: AM-32-087 Price: £4.70 Web: www.master-model.pl

Panzer IV Ausf.H Schürzen By: Eduard Item no: 36357 Price: €29.95 Web: www.eduard.com

This set of magnificent turned-brass gun barrels is ideal for any late-war P-38 model, supplying parts for four two-piece .50 cal Browning machine guns and single 20mm cannon. The former is of the covered-jacket variety, so those requiring drilled/vented versions should use Master’s AM-32-086 offering instead. These are direct replacements for the styrene items, but mounting tubes are supplied for Trumpeter’s kit.

While Zvezda’s recent Panzer IV Ausf.H has many plus points, the side skirt armour is overly thick. Eduard has come to the rescue, though, with its photoetched brass replacement parts, with Zimmerit rendered where appropriate. The latter anti-mine coating is far from uniform, but may not have enough raised texture for purists. Support rails and mounting brackets are also provided, and templates are offered with which to mark the bracket locations accurately.

PONY PARTS

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OVER THE STREAM

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ROCKET/ FUEL COMBO

JL 100R By: PJ Production Item no: 481220 Price: €13.60 Web: www.pj-production.be A trademark store seen on Mirage IIIs and Vs was the coollooking JL 100R rocket pod with rear fuel tank section. Belgium’s PJ Production has captured the appearance of this unit ably (in resin), with sharp-edged nose aperture and realistic vents. Once the slight casting stubs have been removed, the front part slots into a recess in the rear, for proper alignment. Perfect for older 1/48 deltawinged Mirage builds, or Saudi Air Force Lightnings.

TALON GEAR Bae Hawk T.1 Red Arrows tail correction By: Thunderbird Models Item no: TBMR-002 Price: £4.50 Web: www.thunderbird models.co.uk Revell’s new-tool Red Arrows Hawk is a fine kit, but it fails in one aspect…it sports the early vertical tail arrangement, which is inaccurate for a Red Arrows airframe. Thankfully, Thunderbird has produced an accurate resin replacement, which doesn’t just replicate the later style, but also offers more detail. There is representation of the smoke dye tubes at the back of the component, but one would arguably be better sanding them and adding fine wire versions instead.

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P-51D interior By: Eduard Item no: 49853 Price: €18.75 Web: www.eduard.com Eduard already offers an extensive resin P-51D cockpit for use in Airfix’s new-tool kit, but for those looking for simpler (and cheaper) refinement, this pure photo-etched (PE) metal offering should be ideal. The precoloured components involve the instrument panel and sidewall features, while the plain brass items replicate a new VHF transmitter and battery frame, seat braces and head armour, canopy brace, antennas and gun sight framing (with clear acetate for the reflector glass).

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

Footbridge By: Plus Model Item no: 501 Price: €23.20 Web: www.plusmodel.cz Plus Model’s impressive lasercutting prowess comes to the fore yet again, via this neat footbridge, which could be employed in various scenarios whether civilian or military. The thin wooden parts are rendered very well, with a modicum of staining/weathering, and odd-shaped/worn ends to the underfoot slats…but one could easily add extra wear and tear, peeling paint etc. This is a splendid centrepiece for a diorama or vignette.

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T-38 Wheels Early By: Hypersonic Models Item no: 48023 Price: £7 Web: www.hypersonicmodels.com Hypersonic’s neat resin wheels are intended for early T-38 trainers. They comprise four-piece mainwheels (including separate brake housings and two miniscule brake line plugs) and a choice of early or late-style nosewheels (check references for specific airframes). Clear guidance is supplied for the modifications to the kit undercarriage legs, along with how the brake lines are routed around the scissor links to the rearmost brake plug.

ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

LION CUB UPGRADE

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PIXELATED FULCRUM

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ALL-METAL GUARDS

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ANTIQUE FURNITURE

German Tank Destroyer Elefant Fenders By: Hauler Item no: HLX48382 Price: €9.76 Web: wwwhauler.cz

Kfir C2 By: Eduard Item no: 73606 Price: €18.95 Web: www.eduard.com Avante Garde’s new 1/72 Kfir C2/C7 (see p.9) is a fine offering, but if one wants to make it a real showpiece then Eduard’s PE will enliven it considerably. Besides the presence of a pre-coloured instrument panel, side consoles, switch panels, seatbelts and ejection firing handles, plain brass items include canopy trim/ mirrors, cockpit sills, undercarriage bay inserts, landing gear leg oleo scissors, antenna mounts, gun trough ribs, pylon facings and more. Clear acetate gun sights also feature.

UNDERWING WHOOSH!

Digital MiG-29 9-13 Masks Ukrainian Air Force By: Foxbot Item no: FM72-002 Price: £2.99 Web: www.foxbot.com.ua Fighter schemes are seldom as cool as this ‘digital’ example sported by Ukraine's MiG-29 9-13s. While the pixels could be rendered via decals, it’s easier and more realistic to employ Foxbot’s masks and real paint. The livery comprises four grey shades and has the Ukraine trident on the upper fuselage. To portray this scheme fully, one also needs Authentic Decals’ sheet AD72-74.

Hauler’s photo-etched (PE) brass track guards replace Tamiya’s styrene items in their entirety. While the required surgery to Parts D7 and D12 is identified correctly, it should also be noted the front sections and U-shaped supports/strengtheners must be removed from Part D2 to allow the PE to fit. Do study the instructions carefully, as this is a complex modification, with five sections for each track guard and multiple brackets and hinges…but the results will be worth the effort.

HIP OPERATION

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TIGHT ABRASION

Showcase By: LSG Europe Item no: A35026 Price: €10 Web: www.yenmodels.be The scope for diorama accessories is ever expanding, with laser-cut wood an increasingly popular medium. Lsg Europe’s showcase/display cabinet is a cleverly designed offering, comprising 27 parts on three frets, and requires just a sheet of thin acetate for the door glazing. Tabs and slots have been engineered into the design, making construction relatively simple. There are also separate drawer handles and inner/outer faces to the doors.

HAULING BOMBS

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RP-3 60lb SAP/HE By: Special Hobby Item no: SH32075 Price: €13.30 Web: www.specialhobby.eu Special Hobby’s 60lb rockets are applicable to 1/32 Tempest, Hurricane, Typhoon, Mosquito or Swordfish models. It contains sufficient parts for eight sixpiece rockets and their zerolength launchers. Stencil decals are supplied, and the painting diagram highlights the marking differences for high-explosive and semi-armour-piercing.

Micro Sanders By: RB Productions Item no: RBT042 Price: €7.50 Web: www.radubstore.com Sanding hard-to-access areas is challenging, but RB Productions’ superb Micro Sanders will ease the task. The system centres on six flat PE tools, designed to be held in an X-Acto knife handle or similar. Attach a section of the accompanying self-adhesive abrasive paper to the tool and trim it to match the tool shape. There are three widths of chisel-shaped ‘blades’, and three that come to a sharp point. The provided abrasive is 240 Grit and P400 Grit.

Mil Mi-8MTV-5 /Mi-17V5 conversion By: Neomega Item no: N/A Price: £25 Web: www.neomega-resin.com This set converts Hobby Boss' Hip kits into the Mi-8MTV-5 and Mi-17V5 (export). Besides Russia, these have been ordered by Belarus, India and Afghanistan; the Russian machines look menacing, while the Belarus airframes are impressive, with three camera turrets. Neomega’s set offers a new main fuselage with excellent detail inside and out, fuel tanks, chaff/flare dispensers, a new nose, rear cabin door, rotor hub and more. All parts are well cast but no decals are provided.

Ordnance Trolleys By: SSN Modellbau Item no: F350 08 Price: €4.50 Web: www.ssnmodellbau.de Maritime modellers seeking extra detail for carrier builds need look no further than SSN Modellbau’s Ordnance Trolleys. This PE fret supplies parts for 24 tiny single-piece trolleys, which are the lightweight version (for 500lb-class weapons), employed on US carriers until at least the early 1980s. Ten separate racks are included for carriage of airto-air missiles.

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 93

ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

ZEKE BRASS

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Mitsubishi A6M5c Type 52 Hei Zero exterior By: Brengun Item no: BRL32025 Price: €13.67 Web: www.brengun.cz One can make an impressive model from Hasegawa’s Zero, but if extra refinement is the goal, then Brengun’s photo-etched brass parts will be a boon. Replacement undercarriage doors are provided, along with small features for the gear legs and vertical inserts to be placed in the undercarriage bay. Brengun’s PE is as finely etched as ever, and has slight attachment points for easier part removal and clean-up.

TEUTONIC HUES

GUSTAV’S BOOTS

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Bf 109G Wheels By: BarracudaCast Item no: BR24325 Price: US $12.95 Web: www.barracudacast.com BarracudaCast’s superbly cast resin wheels are direct replacements for Trumpeter’s styrene and vinyl items in its various 1/24 Gustav offerings. These feature ribbed tread on the tyre, and the solid wheel plate with six small and large central hexagonal attachment bolts. Although these are not depicted as ‘weighted’ wheels, there will be a flat section due to the casting block attachment point.

WARHAWK DIALS

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Ki-84-I (Ko) Hayate Control Surfaces By: CMK Item no: 7376 Price: €7.80 Web: www.cmkkits.com Hasegawa’s 1/72 Japanese Hayate (meaning ‘gale’) fighter can have more life and detail breathed into it, courtesy of these crisp resin control surfaces. Simply cut away the kit ailerons, rudder and elevators and bingo, one has poseable control units with realistically thin trailing edges, and trim tabs where appropriate.

SHINY SHADES

Bare Metal Aircraft Colors By: AMMO-MIG Item no: A.MIG-7216 Price: €9.20 Web: www.migjimenez.com

P-40N early (N-1, N-5) By: Yahu Models Item no: YMA3226 Price: £7.50 Web: www.yahumodels. siemianowice.com Hasegawa’s P-40 is a smashing kit, but as with any styrene product, there are moulding limitations. Yahu’s bespoke photo-etched metal instrument panel array will add much to this kit’s ‘office’, courtesy of the beautifully printed dial detail, with varnish already applied to portray glass. Printed acetate portions for three instruments are also provided.

View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com

BIG-GUN FRILLS

Alclad lacquers have long been the medium of choice for aircraft modellers seeking a realistic metallic finish. Acrylics are fighting back slowly, though, and sets such as this from AMMOMIG are winning new fans. The package offers four water-based shades: Matt Aluminium, Silver, Polished Metal and Gun Metal. All come in 17ml plastic bottles and are suitable for airbrushing and brush painting. As the packaging suggests, they should be useful for anything from P-51 Mustangs and MiG jets, to old school English Electric Lightnings.

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British AS-90 Self-Propelled Howitzer Side Skirts By: Tetra Model Works Item no: MA-35023 Price: £12 Web: www.tetramodel.com Tetra’s splendid photo-etched brass and laser-cut paper set is designed to replace the styrene items in Trumpeter’s AS-90, affording it scale-thickness side skirts and mud flaps. The former are complex assemblies, with four main sections per side and separate bolt/hinge points, while the latter can be built from either PE or paper components, depending on one’s preferences. Either way, these are a vast improvement on the kit parts, and allow the usual day-today bumps and scrapes to be replicated accurately.

UP-GUNNED BOATS

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German Army Early WWII Colors 2 By: AK Interactive Item no: RCS002 Price: €7.50 Web: www.ak-interactive.com AK’s new Real Colors range has prompted much excitement among modellers who favour acrylics. This set is its first to offer German Army shades as worn during World War Two (the previous package offered pre-war tones). Three ⅓ fl oz (10ml) bottles are provided, these being RC002 Cream White (for tank interiors), RC057 Dunkelgrau RAL 7021 and RC056 Dunkelbraun RAL 7017…the latter two are perfect for vehicles such as the Panzer I, which wore grey and brown camouflage during the early war period. All can be diluted with AK’s High Compatibility Thinner (shown here, but must be bought separately).

WIND DIRECTION

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Rolls-Royce 2-pdr (40mm) Semiautomatic Cannon By: Coastal Craft Item no: CCA72045 Price: £10 Web: www.coastalcraftmodelsuk.com Rolls-Royce 2-pdrs were a short-lived addition to Royal Navy Motor Gun Boats - but were commonly seen on the rear deck of Fairmile C-class vessels. Coastal Craft’s resin and photo-etched brass item comprises three cleanly cast parts for the mount, pivot and main gun, with a single fret for the shoulder rests, gun shield, ammunition holder, and ringsights. The photo-style instructions provide a clear step-by-step guide, and this should be suitable for most maritime modellers.

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6889 Flakpanzer IV (3cm) Kugelblitz

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648360 P-51D Hamilton Standard uncuffed propeller 6901 DAK Pz.Bef.Wg.III Ausf.H

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20019 Team Lotus Type 91 Belgian GP 1982

5028 Iskander M SS-26 ‘Stone’

648362 AN/ALQ-184 (short) ECM pod 648363 AN/ALQ-131 (shallow) ECM pod

EBBRO (www.hobbyco.net)

1/72 1/9

5042 Jagdpanther

4640 Norton 750 Commando PR

SCALE AIRCRAFT CONVERSIONS (www.scaleaircraftconversions.com) 1/144 14427 C-5B Galaxy 1/72 72146 MiG-21

6232 German Headquarters in Winter Uniform

72147 F-15E Strike Eagle 72148 Tupolev Tu-134 Crusty-B

1/35

72149 Me 262A-1a

36369 Tie downs and straps German STEEL

72150 B/RB-45A/C Tornado 72151 T-45A/C Goshawk 72152 Fw 190A-1/2 72153 B-2A Spirit 1/48 48335 Su-35 Flanker-E 48336 Macchi C.205 Veltro

20020 Late Season McLaren Honda MP4-31 2016

48337 MiG-31 Foxhound

1/24

36372 T-54

48338 A-4 Skyhawk

25010 Citroën H Crêpe Mobile Type

635006 Ammo belts 12.7mm

48339 Bf 109F/G

96

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7307 Yak-130

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MODEL SHOP CHURCH STREET MODELS Airfix & Revell kits: 1/72 Tanks & Planes, 1/48 Planes, Ships – various Cars- 1/24, 1/25 & 1/32. Paint- enamel & acrylic, weathering powders, washes, glues, Plastruct, balsa wood, scenery, abrasives & tools. 10A Church Street, Basingstoke, Hants RG21 7QE, 01256 358060 Mail Order Welcome Mon-Sat 09.30-17.30 Closed Tues

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April2018.indd 96

Over 11,000 products in stock covering all aspects of model making. Great after sales support. From ready to go kits, to materials for your hobby or anything in between.

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w w w. a i r f i x m o d e l wo r l d .co m 19/02/2018 13:53

ARCHIVE TREASURES THE SHINING SIXTIES

T

his evocative image pre-dates 1967, because the RAF Gloster Javelin FAW.9 XH771 (second from top) was struck off charge in that year. Additionally, the Belgian Air Force did not add tactical camouflage to its F-104s until 1967 (the BAF example here is coded FX07). Starfighters from the Netherlands (D-8060, wearing a coat of anticorrosion grey paint), Canada (815) and West Germany (DA+243) are also present, but the gaggle of NATO fast jets is bookended by a USAF F-105D ('FH' was the force identifier for the Thunderchief) at the top, while at the bottom sits a Dassault Mirage IIIC of the French Air Force unit EC 1/2 'Cigognes' (storks). The Javelin shown here, bucking the trend with its covering of two-tone upper green and grey camouflage, served with 11 and 25 Squadrons during its frontline career.

NEXT ISSUE ON SALE APRIL 5, 2018* 98

Airfix Model World

*UK scheduled on sale date. Please note that overseas deliveries are likely to occur after this date.

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE WITH HINTS, TIPS AND TECHNIQUES Welcome to the re-printed Scale Modelling – Step-by-Step … whether you are a total novice, returning to the hobby after a long lay-off, or an experienced modeller. While flexibility and experimentation form a large part of building scale models, there are some standards that are set in stone and many construction, painting and airbrushing methods are featured here. Primarily, though, this instructional 100-page publication is aimed at beginners who, if they choose to stick with it, will have entered a fascinating and fun arena in which to develop their creativity. On these pages we also endeavour to welcome lapsed modellers back to the fold and to help update their skills. Enjoy, and get building!

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