1:48 N/AW A-10A “THUNDERBOLT” II

N/AW A-10A Thunderbolt II in 1:48 scale

This injection-molded plastic kit from Hobby Boss represents an unusual form of the A-10 attack aircraft, namely the two-seat version intended for trials of operations at night and in bad weather. The model in 1:48 scale differs markedly in shape from the ordinary single-seat A-10, so it stands out in a collection as a welcome oddity.

The real subject

The basic A-10 is a single-seat attack aircraft from Fairchild Republic built around a seven-barrel thirty millimeter rotary cannon, with two General Electric TF34 engines high at the rear and the pilot in an armored bathtub. The experimental two-seat modification added a second station behind the pilot for an equipment operator and, with it, taller vertical tail surfaces. The aim was to check whether, with the right instruments, it made sense to use the A-10 at night and in poor visibility. Only a single machine was converted and the two-seat form never reached series production, because the capability that was needed came from a different line of development.

Building and painting tips

Finish and paint both cockpits before you close the fuselage; in a tandem arrangement they show well. Set the enlarged vertical tail surfaces symmetrically, because any tilt is conspicuous on a model with a twin tail. The engine nacelles need the same attention as on the single-seat version. Test machines were usually kept cleaner than aircraft in combat units, so keep the patina moderate and concentrate it mainly around the gun muzzle and the landing gear. Bring out the engraved lines with a thinned wash.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of test and prototype machines
• Those interested in American attack aviation
• Modelers who want a less common form of a well-known type in the display case
• Builders of intermediate experience

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.