Trumpeter has issued two versions of their 1/32 A-6 Intruder which was on many peoples most wanted list. While the kit is expensive, it is well done, well detailed and builds into a great replica. Of course that doesn’t mean there isn't some room for improvement. While the aftermarket has been slow coming, Eduard has issued sets for the A-6E TRAM version to spice up several areas of the kit. This set upgrades the exterior and contains two large frets of photoetch parts for the kit.

The set addresses several areas and I will cover them separately as they are separate construction. First, there are several smaller spots addressed with finer replacement parts such as the chaff/flare dispensers. These are simple drop in replacements.

Also, the interior of the engine bay doors, which are somewhat blank, have all the internal ribbing covered with finely engraved parts with the raised pieces being separate. The main bar across the front doors needs to be removed prior to this and the end result is excellent. The larger doors have some detail but Eduard enhances it with seven individual ribs as well as fixing the bare spots at the top and bottom. The finished doors look awesome and beg to be left open when completing the plane. The same can be said of the main gear doors which are also modified in the same fashion.

Next, the interior of the arrestor hook bay is detailed, adding a lot to all of the sides towards the front which were left blank. Also, additional detail is included back by the hook. This will require removal of some molded in detail which is difficult due to the space constraints.

All of the weapon/fuel tank pylons get detailed next. The bottom of these do not have much detail and even fully loaded, you will be able to see the bottoms. Eduard included a full bottom for each pylon including the centerline too. Each one consists of approximately seven pieces and adds great detail to each individual pylon.

The next area addressed are the wing fold. The kit parts have good detail and Eduard enhances it by adding approximately 28 pieces to each of the two wing folds on the non-folding section. This included adding the prominent hoses as well as smaller detail that just can’t be added in plastic. A small amount of scratch building is needed for adding a bar at the bottom of the wing fold as well as a little surgery which I used sprue nippers to accomplish. This makes the area look busy and more accurate.

The last thing addressed is the armament. The Rockeyes get all new tail fins as well as more detailed fuse for all twelve bombs. The GP bombs get enhanced panel detail as well as an access port, again for all twelve pieces. All included missiles get new motor rings.

In summary, for $35, you get a terrific set to enhance six different areas of the kit with well over 100 well done and engineering photoetch parts to enhance you’re A-6E. Highly recommended.

My thanks to Eduard and IPMS/USA for the chance to review this great set. As a side note, Eduard also makes set for the wheel wells, interior and a masking set- get them all.