USS Coronado, scheduled for commissioning in October 2012, is an Independence-class littoral combat ship (LCS). Designed by Lockheed-Martin and constructed by General Dynamics-Bath Iron Works, Coronado is the second of her class, and features a high-speed trimaran hull and reconfigurable mission bays tailored to specific mission profiles.

Cyber-model’s rendition of this future warrior, although diminutive in 1/700 scale, is crisp and inviting. Molded in light gray styrene, the combination of raised and recessed detail strikes a clean look faithful to the lines and features seen on web-based pictures of Independence. The towed array and helos are crisply molded with recessed detail with convincing proportions. Two frets of well-executed photoetch contain flight deck safety nets, helo rotors, and towed array details. The decal sheet is small and jam-packed with markings for the ship and the helos – all probably best cut out with a sharp hobby knife given the close quarters.

Dry fit of superstructure and hull didn’t indicate any significant fit issues, and a waterline hull option is provided. For those wishing to display Coronado with a full hull, a tasteful display stand is included. With only 85 styrene parts and the nifty compliment of PE, this little LCS promises to build up quickly and nicely.

Looks like Cyber Hobby's latest Smart Kit installment in its Modern Sea Power Series is a winner. Recommend this kit for modelers of all skill levels beyond snap fit, but suggest modelers with minimal or no photoetch experience have a PE-experienced buddy nearby to coach them through the process.

Thanks to Dragon Models USA, Inc. and to IPMS/USA for the sample kit!