I don’t know about you, but I had never considered using the word “Aces” in a discussion of WWI Reconnaissance aircraft…or WWI bombers either for that matter. Then, I had the opportunity to read Osprey’s Aircraft of the Aces – 123, and learn much about WWI airmen other than fighter pilots who earned that title while flying in what many would consider slow and rather awkward aircraft. According to the book’s appendices, at least 134 reconnaissance and bomber pilots managed to do exactly that. And, their story is a compelling one that is long overdue.

One of the latest releases from Eduard in their Brassin line are a set of wheels meant to replace the kit provided ones in the Tamiya 1/72 scale F-16CJ Fighting Falcon. Consisting of three resin parts and a set of masks to aid in airbrushing the wheels and tires, the set can be used to dress up the appearance of the Tamiya kit. The F-16CJ Block 50 release by Tamiya follows their impressive renditions first rolled out in 1/32 scale, and later in 1/48.

For any who have missed it, Aviaeology out of Canada produces decals specific to many Canadian themed subjects. The first thing that hits you when you purchase one of their sets is the detail provided to replicate specific aircraft. The research going into these decals is second to none. This set includes markings for nine different aircraft in a variety of schemes. Here’s a quick list:

One of the latest releases from Eduard in their Brassin line is this ejection seat meant to replace the kit part in the Tamiya 1/72 scale F-16CJ Fighting Falcon. The Eduard set consists of one resin part and a photoetch fret with eight items that can be used to dress up the appearance of the cockpit of the Tamiya kit. The F-16CJ Block 50 release by Tamiya follows their impressive renditions first rolled out in 1/32 scale, and later in 1/48.

History

The C-17 was funded for development in 1984 and the first one was delivered in 1991 to the USAF for testing. The C-17 was originally designed to replace the C-130 and augment the C-5 and C-141. As we all know the C-130 and the C-5 are still going and the C-141 has been removed from service and has been sent to the boneyard for scrapping. The initial order was for 120 units and that was bumped up in 2002 following the attacks of September 11th to 180. Although the USAF is the main user there are many other countries that utilize the C-17.

The Kit

The kit is molded in light gray plastic. Several of the parts had a grainy texture to them and several of the sprue attachment points were thick and difficult to remove. The construction is fairly straight forward.