1:72 AGM-62 Walleye I missiles (2 pcs) with AN/AWG-16 data link pod (1 pcs)

The television seeker that changed the attack on a point target

The weapon entered combat in the second half of the 1960s and brought something unusual for the time: a camera in the nose memorized the image of the target before release and then held the course by itself. After letting go the pilot could turn away instead of staying in a straight run. The contrast between the target and its surroundings did have to be pronounced, however, or the seeker would lose the target.

The scope of the set

Inside you will find a pair of weapons in the basic version and, with them, one pod through which the picture was relayed back to the cockpit. Compared with the extended-range version this shape has shorter fins and suits machines from the early service of the whole weapon family.

Assembly

Wash the resin before gluing, otherwise the paint holds poorly on a greasy surface. Line the fins up with the axis of the body; the easiest way is to stick the part into a piece of foam and check the symmetry against the light.

Finish and markings

The typical appearance is a light body with a darker nose cover. Fine black lines around the joints separate the sections and at this small size work better than a full wash, which would flood the shape.

Historical background

The first combat use took place over North Vietnam and showed both sides of the new technology: against bridges and buildings with sharp outlines the seeker worked superbly, over hazy or featureless country it failed. That experience led to further versions with a larger body and with a range that allowed an attack from a greater standoff.

Completing the kit

The aircraft for this ordnance is obtained separately; the set deals with the stores and their credibility.