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First Look: Halberd Models’ F-86H Sabre “Hog” Test Build / Parts

Halberd Models has announced a new North American F-86H Sabre “HOG” model kit in 1/48 scale.

The F-86H Sabre — often called the “Hog” or “Hawg” — was the largest, heaviest, and most powerful U.S.-built development of the famed Sabre family, designed primarily as a single-seat tactical fighter-bomber rather than the air-superiority fighter that fought in Korea. First produced from late 1953 through August 1955, it featured a more powerful General Electric J73 turbojet, enlarged fuselage and intake, increased internal fuel capacity, and the ability to carry up to 2,000 lb of bombs, rockets, or a tactical nuclear store. Later aircraft mounted four 20 mm M39 cannon in place of the original six .50-caliber guns. Although it never saw combat, the F-86H served briefly with the U.S. Air Force before passing to Air National Guard units, where it remained in service into the early 1970s—an important transitional fighter-bomber between the Korean War-era Sabres and the supersonic F-100 Super Sabre.

Details on the upcoming kit are limited. although it is reportedly resin and will be available for pre-order some time this week. In the meantime, a series of parts / test build photos have been released, additional examples of which can be seen below.

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MiniArt to Release Fw 190D-9 Basic Model Kit With Distinctive JV 44 Liveries

Coming soon from MiniArt is a Focke-Wulf Fw 190D-9 JV 44 “Sachsenberg Schwarm” basic model kit in 1/48 scale.

The Fw 190D-9 “Doras” of JV 44’s Sachsenberg Schwarm, led by Lt. Heinz Sachsenberg, protected Adolf Galland’s Me 262 jets during their vulnerable takeoffs and landings in the final weeks of World War II. Operating from München-Riem and Ainring in spring 1945, these aircraft were marked with striking red undersides and white stripes for rapid recognition by German anti-aircraft defenses—making them among the Luftwaffe’s most famous late-war fighters.

The upcoming kit (48045) is described as “highly detailed” with realistic metal surfaces and panel details. Two marking options will also be included representing “Red 1” flown by Lt. Heinz “Heino” Sachsenberg and “Red 3” flown by Hptm. Waldemar Wubke. Check out kit contents and livery profiles below.

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Arma Hobby Releases “Next Generation” P-51D Mustang VLR Kit

Arma Hobby recently released their new P-51D Mustang “Very Long Range” (VLR) model kit in 1/72 scale.

P-51D Mustang VLR was a late-war version of the famous American fighter adapted for Very Long Range missions. Aircraft of this type operated from Iwo Jima, escorting Boeing B-29 Superfortress bombers over Japan and carrying out long-range strike missions.

As previously reported, the kit (70073) is described as a “modern next-generation Arma Hobby kit” and a “highly accurate” representation. It features an additional VLR sprue with Pacific-specific equipment: 110-gallon underwing drop tanks, 150-gallon streamlined drop tanks from the P-38 Lightning, and rockets for strike missions. Additional features include a detailed cockpit, canopy masks and high-quality Cartograf decals with marking options for two aircraft: “Snortin’ Phyllie” (1st Lt. Herb Straughn, 531st Fighter Squadron, 21st Fighter Group) and “Little One” (1st Lt. Francis J. Pilecki, 458th Fighter Squadron, 506th Fighter Group). The kit also features a free 3D file with seat with harness, exhaust pipes, and gun barrels.

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Airscale Details 1/32 Bristol Blenheim Progress With New Renders

Airscale has released a new set of renderings for their upcoming Bristol Blenheim Mk IV kit in 1/32 scale.

As previously reported, the Mk IV was the principal later version of the Blenheim light bomber, entering production in 1938 with a longer, redesigned glazed nose that gave the bombardier more room and visibility, plus added armor and more powerful 920-hp Bristol Mercury XV radial engines. Flown by a crew of three, it could carry roughly 1,000 lb of bombs and served widely with the RAF during WW2 in Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Far East. Although fast by mid-1930s standards, it was increasingly vulnerable to modern fighters and anti-aircraft fire as the war progressed.

There will reportedly be an early version with the single VGO drum fed gun and no canopy blisters, and the later one with twin Brownings and blisters. Airscale’s latest update details the start on the B1 VGO turret, the tailfeathers and the Mercury engine. The developer states “lots more work ahead, but it is a wonderful aeroplane to work on.”

Check out additional renders below.

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ICM Releases Lockheed Hudson Mk.III Model Kit: “100% New Molds”

ICM has released a “100% new molds” Lockheed Hudson Mk.III model kit in 1/48 scale.

The Hudson Mk.III was a light bomber and maritime reconnaissance aircraft derived from the Lockheed Model 14 Super Electra airliner and built for the RAF just before World War II. This variant featured upgraded 1,200 hp Wright R-1820 Cyclone engines and a Boulton Paul dorsal turret with twin .303-inch machine guns, and was used extensively by the RAF, RAAF, and RNZAF for coastal patrol, anti-submarine work, and general reconnaissance from 1941 onward.

ICM recently released a brief, step by step instruction video detailing the assembly process for the new kit (48331). It appears to offer plastic sprues, painting masks and four livery options. Check out the video and product page below.

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New Renders Detail MikroMir’s “Significantly Improved” 1/48 Northrop M2-F3

MikroMir has announced the development of a new tool Northrop M2-F3 model kit in 1/48 scale.

The M2-F3 was a rocket-powered, wingless NASA lifting-body research aircraft flown at Edwards from 1970 to 1972. It was intended to prove that a spacecraft could generate lift with its fuselage shape and make a controlled, runway-style landing after atmospheric reentry. It was the rebuilt version of the M2-F2— which was damaged in a 1967 crash. The new incarnation gained a central third vertical fin that markedly improved its lateral stability and handling. Air-launched from a B-52, it completed 27 missions, reaching Mach 1.6 (1,064 mph) and 71,500 feet while also testing reaction controls and a side-arm controller. Its test data helped establish the aerodynamic and operational foundations later applied to the Space Shuttle, and the surviving vehicle is displayed at the Smithsonian’s Udvar-Hazy Center.

MikroMir’s new project reportedly features “significantly improved detailing and geometry compared to the 72nd scale.” it is currently in the mold making stage. A release date has not yet been announced. Check out additional renders below.

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Revell Releases New “Highly Detailed” 1/32 Hawker Hunter T.7/T.7A

Revell has released their new Hawker Hunter T.7/T.7A model kit in 1/32 scale.

As previously reported, the T.7 was the RAF’s two-seat trainer version of the classic Hunter jet, built with side-by-side seating for a student and instructor, and first flew in 1955 before entering service in 1958. It was powered by a single Avon engine, could reach about 690 mph, and later six airframes were upgraded to T.7A standard for Buccaneer conversion training with updated cockpit instrumentation.

The new kit (03786) was developed using state-of-the-art 3D scanning technology and includes a completely new front fuselage section with authentic two-seater configuration; highly detailed dual cockpit with precise instrument panels and realistic seats; crystal clear cockpit glazing for optimal visibility of the interior details and true-to-original surface structures. Marking options are included for three aircraft: 208 Squadron, RAF (1990); RAF Blue Diamonds Display Team (1961) and Royal Netherlands Air Force (1968).

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Italeri Releases 1/48 Macchi MC. 202: “100% New Molds, Exceptional Attention to Detail”

Italeri has released their new tool Macchi MC. 202 Folgore in 1/48 scale.

The Folgore (“Thunderbolt”) was an Italian single-seat fighter developed from the MC.200 and introduced in 1941. Its streamlined all-metal airframe and license-built German Daimler-Benz DB 601 engine—produced in Italy as the Alfa Romeo RA.1000—gave it a top speed of about 600 km/h (370 mph), excellent maneuverability, and strong performance in combat over North Africa and the Mediterranean. Although widely regarded as the Regia Aeronautica’s finest wartime fighter, its relatively light armament of two 12.7 mm and two 7.7 mm machine guns was a significant weakness against heavily built Allied aircraft.

The kit (2840) is touted as delivering the highest level of realism, being made from 100% new molds produced using the most advanced design and manufacturing standards. It is also described as offering exceptional attention to detail with 3D decals (six liveries) and photo-etched parts.

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Revell Releases New Renderings, Video Update Detailing Progress on New Tool 1/32 Harrier

Revell has posted the latest update for their upcoming, new tool Hawker Siddeley Harrier model kit in 1/32 scale.

As previously reported, the company recently announced the development of a new tool “state-of-the-art” Harrier model. As part of the process, they launched “Project Harrier,” which brings modelers along on the development journey with a behind-the-scenes look at the process via blog posts, monthly YouTube updates, etc.

The latest update reports that the airframe is now finalized, while the cockpit, Martin-Baker seat and undercarriage bays are gaining impressive detail. Work also continues on the Pegasus engine, with accuracy and buildability always in focus. Panel lines and rivets are next on the list.

Check out newly released renderings and the latest video update below.

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First Look: Test Build of Mdesign’s Upcoming 1/32 LVG B.II

Mdesign has released test build images of their soon to be released L.V.G. B.II in 1/32 scale.

The B.II was an early German two-seat, unarmed reconnaissance biplane of the First World War, developed from the pre-war L.V.G. B.I and entering service in 1915. It used a 120 hp Mercedes D.II inline engine and incorporated an upper-wing cutout to improve the pilot’s upward visibility; although it performed scouting and reconnaissance work early in the war, the lack of defensive armament soon made it obsolete at the front, so it was employed chiefly as a trainer.

As of this writing details are limited, although the kit will reportedly include masks and decals with options for a second variant manufactured by Otto and armed with a Madsen machine gun. Check out additional images below.

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