Introduction

The second volume of Panther Project follows the Restoration process of the Engine and Turret process along with its connected systems, information on Zimmerit. Some very nice Hull walk around along with interior photos, there are 440 photographs that make up this book along with some nice technical drawings of components.

Contents

Before they dive in on the restoration there are several pages on the History of the Panther tank along with the usual introduction. The rest of the book is broken up by each year on restoration 2007 2009 2013 2017 and 2018 and at the back are some references and technical drawings for the restoration process. Each chapter is broken up by what job is being done and gives the page numbers for easy reference. I'll be posting a picture of the index page as there is a lot of work going into each section.

If you are looking for a rather unique kit to add to your late-WWII collection of 1/72 scale Axis aircraft, Brengun has come through with a trainer variant of the Ohka rocket plane. The relatively small parts count makes this a quick build, but some experience with small photoetched parts will be beneficial. Modelers with some experience with small parts and working with plastic to improve the fit of parts will enjoy this build.

Built by Dai-Ichi Kaigun Koku Gijitsusho, 45 of the K1 version of the Ohka (Cherry Blossom) were built to train the future Kamikaze pilots of the rocket-powered plane. A forward tank was loaded with water to simulate the warhead weight on the combat aircraft, which was then dumped before landing. Requiring a speed of 130 mph to land the trainer, it was a difficult plane to land for the inexperienced pilots.

The Messerschmitt Bf-110 is another iconic mainstay of Luftwaffe aviation that is most recognizable to almost any aviation enthusiast. Originally designed in the 1930’s, the 110 was one of the Luftwaffe’s heavy-fighter/bomber mainstays. Originally it was anticipated to be replaced in the early 1940’s by the Me-210, but due to the 210’s poor performance issues the 110 was given a second chance.

Due to the cancelation of the Me-210, the Luftwaffe had decided it needed to continue to utilize the 110 airframe. In order to do so the 110 needed to overcome its shortfalls in order to keep up with the ever changing and rapid developments in aviation during World War Two. Through the procurement of more powerful engines for the 110 airframe it was able to prolong the use of the aircraft well to the end of the war.

Born from the great North American F-86A, the F-86D/K all weather interceptor had a long and widespread career. It served the USA both home and abroad and as this book covers with 7 NATO air forces as well as US forces in Europe. The F-86D/K served NATO until the final ones were retired from the Italian Air Force in 1973.

The book has 5 total sections with the first section a brief overview of its development and production. Section Two covers the USAF in Europe. Section 3 is the largest section comprising 50 pages with coverage of the type’s service in Royal Danish, French, West German, Royal Hellenic, Italian, Royal Netherland and Royal Norwegian Air Force. Section Four has a look inside with manual pages and detail pictures reproduced throughout. The book ends with the squadron badge of every unit in Europe both US and European to operate the F-86D/K.