1:32 LAU-88 with (2 pcs) AGM-65 Maverick missiles (6 pcs) (A-7D, F-4, A-10, F-16)

The real subject

The LAU-88 is a launcher for AGM-65 Maverick guided missiles that carries them three at a time on a single pylon. The aircraft therefore carries three missiles at one station instead of one, at the price of higher weight and more drag. The AGM-65 Maverick is an air-to-ground guided missile with its own rocket motor, intended against point ground targets, that is, mainly against armored vehicles and fortified positions. According to the name, the set is aimed at models of the A-7D, F-4, A-10 and F-16 aircraft.

What the set contains

Two LAU-88 launchers and six AGM-65 Maverick missiles in 1:32 scale. The numbers fit together: both launchers can be filled completely, each with three missiles. A weapons load of this size is a big subject on a model, because in 1:32 scale these are pronounced pieces that the viewer will look at from close up.

Building and painting tips

The parts are not polystyrene and an ordinary cement for plastic has no effect on them; use super glue. Cut the excess material away with a sharp blade a short distance from the part and sand the rest carefully, so that the shape of the missile body is preserved. Wash and degrease the parts before painting, otherwise the paint holds badly. While gluing, watch that the missiles point parallel to the axis of the fuselage and sit at the same spacing; an asymmetrical load is visible at a glance. The particular procedure for preparing the parts is given in the manufacturer's instructions.

Who it is for

For modelers who build an attack or strike version of one of the aircraft named and want a weapons load with sharper detail than the kit offers. It is an accessory for a kit you already own; have paints and glue ready separately, unless stated otherwise.