Thanks very much to our fantastic supporters at Hasegawa USA for providing IPMS USA yet another of their fine kits for review… we appreciate the opportunity to showcase some of the best models out there!

This is yet another re-release of Hasegawa’s first range mid-1980’s F-18 models. The molds have well-endured the test of time, and no flash is present on this kit. Engraved panels, simplified construction, and an absolutely cool decal sheet await…

Starting with the cockpit, decals are used for the instrument and side-console details. A two-piece ejection seat is provided, and use of the provided aircrew figure is recommended to avoid having to make a harness. A basic control stick rounds out the interior, and no problems will be experienced in construction here.

The basic fuselage is set up for the two-seat F-18B/D, and appropriate panel and fuselage inserts are provided to fill the empty back hole. I constructed the basic kit in about two hours, including simple detail painting. Good thing we have weld-type cement and acrylic (Vallejo in this case) paint… even so, the decals turned this project in to a couple of weeks due to having to work with them one at at time…

After the seams cured, a few swipes with the sanding stick, a bit of Vallejo putty (this stuff is great, like thickened house paint.), and it’s time for the paint shop.

I painted the lower part Light ghost gray, and mixed my own 35273 for the Canadian upper blue-gray camo. The Blue spine is Vallejo Prussian Blue, which perfectly matched the decals and facilitated the inevitable touch-up work. I say that, because these decals really needed strong methods to sit down due to their stiffness. I even resorted to touching certain areas with Weld-on-3 cement, carefully applied with a brush, to get them to snuggle down.

After finishing up, the “break off first if installed” bits such as antennas and land gear were applied. A coat of flat, and I was finished! It’s a great looking Hornet; the Canadians have a great demo program with these birds, and the color schemes are new for each year. This kit exemplifies that program… eye-catching, and showing the public what the technology we have can do.

At the end of the day, this was an enjoyable build. Recommended for the more experienced due to the complex paint scheme… I was excited to have the opportunity to do this model, as the markings are truly “one-off”, limited edition. Snap one up while you can! Thanks again to Hasegawa and Hobbico for providing us this great kit!