1:72 CATM-120 B/C Captive Air Training Missile (4 pcs)

CATM-120 B/C, 1:72, four pieces (Reskit)

This item is not a model of an aircraft but a resin detail accessory. By its name the package contains four pieces of the CATM-120 training missile in the B and C versions in 1:72 scale. Resin castings allow very thin stabilizing and control surfaces, which is fundamental with slender missiles, because in injection-molded plastic they tend to be needlessly thick.

The real subject

The designation CATM means a training missile intended to be carried under an aircraft without the possibility of launch. It serves for training crews and for practicing ground handling, so it has neither a working rocket motor nor a warhead. In shape it corresponds to the AIM-120 missile, but it is distinguished from live munitions by colored markings, usually striking bands. That is exactly a rewarding detail on a model, because training missiles are very common in ordinary in-flight photographs.

Building and painting tips

Wash the parts in lukewarm water with detergent so that no mold release agent is left on them. Cut the casting blocks off with a saw or a cutting disc and touch the surface up with a file, proceeding carefully on the thin surfaces. Sand wet and with respiratory protection. They are glued with cyanoacrylate glue, and with longer bodies it is advisable to reinforce the joint with a pin of wire. The colored bands are best sprayed over masking tape once the base shade has been applied, otherwise the edge risks coming out uneven.

Who the set is for

• builders of models of modern tactical aircraft in 1:72 scale
• modelers who want to capture a training stores configuration faithfully
• more experienced builders used to working with resin
• makers of dioramas set at an air base

This is not a model of an aircraft but an accessory for one. The parts are supplied unpainted; the base kit, glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.