The Grumman F6F-3 Hellcat was a US carrier based fighter that served with distinction throughout the Pacific War.

This kit has been issued several times with different markings. It is packaged like other Eduard kits in a strong top opening box with the parts contained in a plastic bag with the photoetch, decals, and instruction manual protected in the bottom of the box. Resin wheels are a nice addition.

Curiously there were two fuselage sprues, although there is no reference to one of them. The part numbers were different as was the sprue number. I put it aside and continued on.

Construction starts with the cockpit. It appears a bit simplistic at first, but with the supplied photo etch, decals, and painting, the cockpit came out looking quite good. I used Eduard’s Look instrument panel and steel seat belts, which saved time.

Gabriele Esposito is an Italian researcher and a long-time student of military history. His main field of research is the military of 19th-century Latin America, but his interests range from the Ancient world to modern post-colonial conflicts. He has authored over 16 books, several works in the UK, including MAA 499 Armies of the War of the Triple Alliance 1864-70 and MAA 504 Armies of the War of the Pacific 1879-83, and is a regular contributor to many specialized magazines. He lives in Benevento, Italy.

History

The Supermarine Walrus (originally known as the Supermarine Seagull V) was a British single-engine amphibious biplane reconnaissance aircraft designed by R.J. Mitchell and first flown in 1933. Designed for use as a fleet spotter to be catapult launched from cruisers or battleships, the Walrus was later employed in other roles, notably as a rescue aircraft for aircrew in the sea.