Dora 9 Diecast

Hobby Master, HA1055 TF-104G Starfighter

2012-02-25T21:11:00.003+02:00

Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series, HA1055 Lockheed TF-104G, D-5817, "Dutch Masters", late 1960s.

SkyMax SM8005 Devastator pre-pro photos.

2012-02-25T21:02:00.000+02:00

SkyMax 1/72 Flying Heroes Series, SM8005, TBD-1 Devastator 6-T-4, VT-6, USS Enterprise, March 1941.

Hhmmm, a bit on the dull side but hey, some folks like the the Devastator, even here in SA!!!

First shots of the new Corgi Puma.

2012-02-24T13:48:00.002+02:00

Shuttle from DAF has kindly agreed that we can use the photos he obtained from Simon, the Airfix/Corgi researcher, of the test shots of the new Corgi Puma.

They are not finished representations but rather "a run of the tools with all the bits stuck on". Constructive comments are being filtered back to Corgi through DAF.

Many in South Africa will be more than familiar with the Puma as well as the upgraded Oryx. It's a pity therefore that we are unlikely to see a South African version of this tooling. We can but live in hope.

Pre-production photos, J-2 (MiG15 bis) HA2415.

2012-02-22T15:00:00.002+02:00

Hobby Master 1/72, HA 2415, J-2 (MiG-15 bis) "26100", Chinese Peoples Liberation Army Air Force, Korean War, 1951.

Pre-production photos, F/A-18C Hornet, HA3510.

2012-02-22T14:50:00.002+02:00

Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series, HA3510, F/A-18C Hornet, BuNo. 163733, VFA-122 "Flying Eagles" NAS Lemoore, February 2011, Centennial of Naval Aviation.

Corgi 2012 release updates.

2012-02-22T12:16:00.003+02:00

Delays have pushed back numerous Corgi releases we are very eager to lay our hands on. No surprises there, nothing new. Here are some updated release dates.

AA33420 Westland Sea King HRH Prince William Training Flight SAR 2011 22 Sqn SPECIAL EDITION Mar-12
AA37806 Albatross DVa Ltn Helmut Dilthey, Jasta 40, Mid-1918 Mar-12
AA38506 Bf110 C-4/B, Schnell Kampf Geschwader 210, Russian Front 1941 Mar-12
AA36310A Fairey Swordfish MkI, L2742, 81 NAS, HMS Courageous, 1937 (floats) Sep-12
AA36310B Fairey Swordfish MkI, L2742, 810 NAS, HMS Courageous, 1937 (wheels) Sep-12
AA31605 Handley Page Victor B2 139 'Jamaica' Sqn RAF Wittering 1964 May-12
AA32314 English Electric (BAC) Lightning F6 5 Sqn, RAF Binbrook 1984 Apr-12
AA39702A Hawker Hurricane Mk. IIc - BN230, FT-A, 43 Sqn RAF, Sqn Ldr D.du Vivier Acklington 1942 Apr-12
AA36807 Westland Lysander Mk.IIIa V9289, 357 Sqn, Burma 1945 May-12
AA39303 Boulton Paul Defiant Mk.I 307 (Polish) Sqn EW-K, N3437 Apr-12
AA34604 DeHavilland Mosquito FBVI - HX922, EG-F, RAF 487 Sqn, Grp Capt P.C. Pickard, Amiens Raid, February 1944 May-12
AA39801 Panavia Tornado F3, ZE763/HD, 111 Sqn, RAF Leuchars, Scotland 2010 Apr-12
AA39403 Vickers Valiant B Mk.1, WZ404, 207 Sqn, RAF Luqa, Malta, Suez Crisis 1956 May-12
AA39602 Hawker Demon, K2905, 41 Sqn, C Flight, RAF Northolt, Autumn 1934 May-12
AA39205 Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IIa, P7308, 71 'Eagle' Sqn, RAF North Weald 1941 May-12
AA27001 Westland Puma HC Mk.1 ,XW219, 230 Sqn, RAF Benson, November 2009 Jun-12
AA34409 North American Mustang Mk.IV GA-S 112 Sqn RAF, Italy, May 1945 Jul-12
AA33713 Heinkel He111 H-5 1000kg 'Herman' Bomb A1+AH 1./KG53 Legion Condor 1942/43 Jul-12

Hobby Master new releases for April 2012.

2012-02-22T11:21:00.001+02:00

Some interesting new treats from Hobby Master in April!!! The BIG news is the F-16 in 1/72 and what's more, there two to choose from!!! An F-16A of the ROCAF and a USAF F-16CG.

In 1/72 fast movers there's also a very appealing Cuban MiG 21, the much desired F-111, The Chief along with another F-22 Raptor and an RF-4B, the first RF-4B I believe.

In 1/48 there's a Douglas Bader Spitfire Mk.Va. so a cannon armed Mk. Vb variant cannot be far behind!!! There's also a US Navy Boeing F4B-4.

In 1/144 there's a B-24D Liberator, "Lady Be Good". The scheme is similar to the last one so hopefully the incorrect bomb bay door colour will be addressed.

On the Collectors Front.

2012-02-21T13:30:00.000+02:00

There are a few models on the horizon from various manufacturers for collectors, some en-route, others clearing customs.

Corgi WWII:

Bf 110C Luftwaffe ZG 52, Charleville, France

PBY-5A Catalina Diecast Model, USAAF, John S. McCain

B-24J Liberator Diecast Model, USAAF 494th BG, 867th BS, "Shack Bunny"

Corgi Cold War / Modern:

Whirlwind HAR Mk 10 RAF Search and Rescue 22Sqn. RAF Finningley

Valiant B.Mk 1 XD829, RAF

Nimrod MR Mk.2 RAF Kinloss 2009

Jaguar GR.Mk 1 Diecast Model, RAF No.16 Sqn, "The Saint"

Jaguar GR.Mk 3 Diecast Model, RAF No.6 Sqn, RAF Coningsby

Hobby Master:

Bristol Beaufighter TF. X NE548, 455 Sqn., RAAF mid 1944 "UB-E"

SkyMax:

TBD-1 Devastator BuNo. 1512, VT-6, USS Enterprise, Wake Island raids, Feb 1942.

TBD-1 Devastator VS-71 0299 USS Wasp 1940

Falcon Models:

F-86D Sabre Dog, 357 FIS, USAFE, Nouasseur AFB, French Morocco

Carousel 1:

P-40B USAAC 15th PG, 47th PS, "White 160", George Welch, Haleiwa Field, Pearl Harbour, Hawaii, December 7th 1941.

Franklin Mint:

A6M2-N Rufe, IJNAS 5th Air Wing, Aleutian Islands, 1942

Witty Sea Vixen Pictures.

2012-02-17T20:08:00.001+02:00

There's been much discussion by collectors regarding the accuracy of the new Sea Vixen being released by Witty. I found some pictures of the upcoming Witty Sea Vixen on the Sky Guardians Europe site to help you decide.

Pre-production photos, F-105D Thunderchief "Arkansas Traveler"

2012-02-12T21:45:00.002+02:00

Pre-production photographs of HM HA2509 F-105D Thunderchief "Arkansas Traveler" 59-1743, flown by Col. Paul Douglas, 388th Tactical Fighter Wing, Thailand 1968-69.

Final Product Photos, Finnish Air Force F/A-18C.

2012-02-12T21:32:00.002+02:00

Final product photos, Hobby Master HA3509, F/A-18C HN-457, Finnish Air Force "Kreivi von Rosen", the last F/A-18C/D built.

In 1992 the Finnish Air Force decided to purchase 67 aircraft but reduced it to
64. The primary functions of these aircraft are defense and not attack so the
Finns designate their aircraft F-18C/D.

In 1918 Swedish Count Eric von Rosen donated the first airplane to the Finnish
Air Force. To honor his memory one fighter carries his name on the bottom of
the vertical stabilizers. The one aircraft is F-18C HN-457 which happens to be
the last F-18C to ever be manufactured.

Altaya Modern Fighters

2012-02-08T15:04:00.000+02:00

Altaya is normally associated with a low cost 1/72 model range of WWII fighters and 1/144 bombers. They have also released a low cost 1/72 modern fighter option.

The models feature a metal fuselage with plastic wings. The u/c is interchangeable and it comes with a stand. Of course you do get what you pay for and this is evident in the blister pack packaging and general lack of detail in the u/c and weapons for example.

That said, where else would you get a die-cast Kfir or MiG 31 for example??? I bought a couple to have a look see. Both models will fill the gap!!! They look good on display and the lack of detail isn't immediately evident when standing back from the display.

I got two Kfir C2s, one of which came with the intake separated from the fuselage and the part in two pieces inside the blister packaging. Potentially it could easily be repaired but it does point to the model being a little fragile.

The bottom line in my view is, get the better quality models from higher end manufacturers and get what the big boys don't what to make, European types like the Rafale, Super Etendard and Gripen for example from Altaya, you won't be disappointed.

Gemini200 Hawker-Siddeley HS-748, RAF Andover.

2012-02-05T09:11:00.002+02:00

Gemini have just released this attractive RAF HS-748 Andover, XS792, in 1/200. 1/200 is the perfect scale for this type of aircraft and a good few manufacturers have been using civilian aircraft molds to do some great military liveries.

Hobby Master BAe Sea Harrier FA.2

2012-02-04T15:09:00.001+02:00

BIG BIG NEWS!!! A Hobby Master Sea Harrier FA.2, HA4201, is on pre-order in the UK.

The FA.2 Sea Harrier was the UK's most potent naval air asset that was withdrawn from service in 2006 by insightful politicians leaving the Royal Navy without the ability to detect, intercept and destroy all primary air threats at long range from the fleet.

Currently not much information is available. Updates to follow.

Gate Guardian RNAS Yeovilton circa 2004.

A Harry Worthan Carousel 1 Custom Fw190D-9

2012-02-01T10:31:00.001+02:00

Harry has been at it again with a very, very nice custom Carousel 1 Fw190D-9 in 1/48. The model started out as a Gerhard Barkhorn Fw 190D-9 and has been transformed into Hans Ulrich Rudel's last mount. The aircraft was a very late version with only basic marking and modular parts.

The scheme has been well researched and is appealing in that it differs from the C1 offerings by having grey and not green camouflaged wings as well numerous colour variations throughout. C1 only produced 3 versions of their excellent Fw190Ds.

Aviation 72, what's happening???

2012-01-29T18:42:00.001+02:00

Well now, I bet many are wanting to know what's happening with Aviation 72. More to the point, where's that Draken and Viggen?!

According to Aviation 72 we can expect the first models in the summer of 2012 (northern hemishpere).

I've had a look at their website and have some updates in terms progress in the form of some pics. Some models are painted, some pre-painted, others raw.

Tiger Moth.

Chipmunk.

Bulldog.

Gazelle.

Gnat.

Seahawk.

Draken.

Viggen.

UK Exclusive Century Wings F-14A Tomcat VF-1 "Wolfpack"

2012-01-26T10:50:00.002+02:00

Captain Tiger of Tiger Hobbies Limited made the following announcement on a die-cast forum:

Announcement from Tiger Hobbies Limited

Reference UK Exclusive Century Wings F14 VF-1 Wolf Pack.

It is with deep regret we have had to cancel this project for the foreseeable future. CW gave Tiger Hobbies an almost 40% increase in the price of the model at cost from our original quote which would have resulted in a price rise to the collector from £99.99 or about $155.00 to £139.99 or about $217.00. Not only is the price an issue but concerns over recent QC issue with some of the recent CW/XPlus products made this project too risky.

Tiger Hobbies will continue to import CW/Xplus but concentrating on their existing stock (i.e) the one made in the HM Factory such as older SR71, A6, F8, F14 and A7 which are fantastic value and fantastic quality models.

UK Exclusive Century Wings VF-1 F-14A Tomcat CANCELLED!!!

2012-01-26T10:07:00.000+02:00

The UK Exclusive Century Wings F-14A Tomcat, VF-1, "Wolfpack", USN, USS Ranger has been cancelled.

The model was cancelled by the UK importer, Tiger Hobbies, who sited Quality Control and Price Increases as the reasons.

This was an eagerly anticipated model and this news is sure to disappoint many who have pre-ordered this model. VF-1 and VF-2 were the first US Navy F-14 squadrons.

Witty / Sky Guardians Javelin.

2012-01-21T16:26:00.004+02:00

I came across pics of this new Witty Sky Guardians 1/72 Scale Gloster Javelin FAW 9R of 64 Sqn. RAF, XH766.

By all accounts it doesn't seem to be attracting positive comment in Diecast Land. Of course there is no other Javelin in 1/72 die-cast, so, if you really want one, the choice is yours...

You judge for yourselves. The model does come with external stores but they haven't been added.

Photos by regtheveg.

New Gemini Aces F-4K Phantom XT868.

2012-01-21T14:06:00.002+02:00

Spey engined Phantom lovers take note!!! Gemini Aces have another Royal Navy F-4K in the pipeline.

The GA Rolls Royce Spey engined Phantoms make for a great addition to any Phantom collection. It's a refreshing change to the J-79 engined F-4s and adds some diversity.

GARNS4006, Royal Navy F-4K, XT868.

Thunder City jets over AFB Ysterplaat.

2012-01-19T15:19:00.000+02:00

Lightnings, a Buccaneer and a Hunter over AFB Ysterplaat. It was always a wonderful sight to see them against the Table Mountain backdrop.

One of my favourite memories is seeing a Thunder City Hunter streaking low over the runway at Cape Town International totally missed by airline passengers. Funny thing is, I saw it happen more than once!!!

English Electric Lightnings!!!

2012-01-19T14:38:00.000+02:00

A few pictures of the English Electric Lightnings at the Overberg at short notice from Eness Photography.

What's happening with Thunder City?

2012-01-19T11:36:00.000+02:00

Many in Cape Town sorely missed the Thunder City fast jets at the last airshow at AFB Ysterplaat in December. There were whispers that the Buccaneers would make an appearance but it was not to be.

We were truly privileged to see up to 4 EE Lightnings, 3 Buccaneers and a good few Hunters in the skies over Cape Town. The Lightnings and Buccs are the only flying examples in the world.

Sad then to discover it would seem unlikely that we will see them take to the skies over Cape Town again. They're up for auction. We can but wonder where they will find new places to take to the sky...

See the links below:

Thunder City Aircraft Company - Historical Military Jets - GoIndustry DoveBid
www.go-dove.com

Unique opportunity to own historical military jet aircraft in an airwothy condition English Electric Lightning's "Mk F6a" (x2) and "Mk T5b" (x1), 3x Buccaneer's S Mk 2B, 4x Hawker Hunter's, various Marks.

http://www.go-dove.com/event-15794/Thunder-City-Aircraft-Company-Historical-Military-Jets/lots

Note: Updated link including aircraft for sale.

Pre-production photos of Hobby Master B-24D Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

2012-01-18T11:49:00.000+02:00

HA9100 B-24D Liberator, 98th Bomb Group, 343rd Sqn. (Y: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs), 1943.

I would think the open bomb bay doors should be the same colour as the undersides of the aircraft, not the fuselage. Hopefully Hobby Master corrects this on the production model.

HM F4U Corsair release dates.

2012-01-15T13:35:00.001+02:00

The 2 new Hobby Master F4U-1A Corsairs have been delayed by one month from the original release dates.

HA8201 F4U-1A Corsair "White 29" VF-17 "Jolly Rogers" Lt(JG) Ira C Kepford is delayed from January 2012 to February 2012.

HA8202 F4U-1A Corsair "White 86" VMF-214 "Black Sheep" Major Gregory Boyington has been delayed from February 2012 to March 2012.

Hobby Master 1/72 General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon

2012-01-15T13:15:00.001+02:00

Please remember that these are photos of the model in the very early stages of

development and wear parts from different variants to check the fit. This isn't

exactly how the final model will look.

Final Product Photo - Ju 52, 1/144.

2012-01-10T10:05:00.002+02:00

Hobby Master 1/144 Air Power Series, HA9007

JU-52/3M D-TABX, 1940s

SkyMax pre-production F8F-1 Bearcat

2012-01-09T12:28:00.003+02:00

1/72 Flying Heroes Series SM1009
F8F-1 Bearcat 1st Fighter Squadron,
South Vietnamese Air Force, 1960s

Pre-production photos - F-106A Delta Dart

2012-01-09T12:20:00.002+02:00

Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series HA3603 F-106A Delta Dart
"City of Jacksonville" Florida ANG, 1976

Final Production Photos - EF-18M Hornet

2012-01-09T12:02:00.002+02:00

Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series HA3508
McDonnell Douglas EF-18M Hornet "Operation United Protector"
C.15-38/15-25, Base Aerea de Decimomannu Cerdena (Sardinia),
July 2011

Final Production Photos - F/A-18C

2012-01-09T11:53:00.000+02:00

Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series HA3506, McDonnell Douglas

F/A-18C BuNo 165200, VFA-86 "Sidewinders" MCAS Beaufort, SC,

Jan 2011

SkyMax release update.

2012-01-04T12:36:00.002+02:00

SkyMax are releasing a trio of Jet Provost T5s. While their Strike Masters are very popular the Jet Provosts are very similar. Wise of them then to release this trio of subtly different and appealing models.

SM7006 Jet Provost T5 The Poachers "XW360"

SM7007 Jet Provost T5 "XW320"

SM7008 Jet Provost T5 The Swords "XW407"

Hobby Master releases for March 2012.

2012-01-04T12:21:00.002+02:00

Hobby Master continues to pump out new models at a dizzying rate. Collectors just aren't able to keep pace anymore it would seem and are becoming more discriminating.

For March we have a very limited edition (200) 1/32 scale Dauntless. In 1/48 there are two Stearmans, one US Army, the other Israeli Air Force. In 1/144 another Ju-52.

In 1/72 there's a Japanese 'Kate' torpedo bomber and a French Indochina Douglas Invader. No less than two Vietnam jets in the form of the F-105D and F-4D. In addition there is a Spanish TF-104 and USMC F/A-18C.

Corgi Aviation Archive release updates.

2012-01-04T11:41:00.002+02:00

We all know Corgi doesn't necessarily release models on the given dates so here is an update on some Aviation Archive releases.

AVIATION ARCHIVE (Limited Edition)

1/72 Scale:

Avro Lancaster B MkI LM220, RAF 9 Sqn 'Getting Younger Everyday' SPECIAL EDITION NEW TOOLING Jun-12

Shorts Stirling MkI, OJ-H - 149 Sqn, Middleton VC Apr-12

Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IIa, P7308, 71 'Eagle' Sqn, RAF North Weald 1941 May-12

Hawker Demon, K2905, 41 Sqn, C Flight, RAF Northolt, Autumn 1934 NEW TOOLING May-12
Westland Wessex XS518 ,847 NAS coded X-P, Falklands 1982 "Falklands 30th Anniversary" Apr-12
Westland Puma HC Mk.1 ,XW219, 230 Sqn, RAF Benson, November 2009 NEW TOOLING Jun-12
Panavia Tornado F3, ZE763/HD, 111 Sqn, RAF Leuchars, Scotland 2010 NEW TOOLING Apr-12

1/144 Scale:

Vickers Valiant B Mk.1, WZ404, 207 Sqn, RAF Luqa, Malta, Suez Crisis 1956 1:144 Scale Apr-12

Avro Vulcan B.2. XM598, 50 Sqn, Wideawake Air Base Ascension Island 1982 "Falklands 30th Anniversary" 1:144 Scale May-12

1/32 scale:

DeHavilland Mosquito FBVI - HX922, EG-F, RAF 487 Sqn, Grp Capt P.C. Pickard, Amiens Raid, February 1944 1:32 Scale NEW TOOLING Apr-12

Corgi Stirling AA39502

2012-01-04T09:42:00.001+02:00

I must admit that it comes as of something of a surprise that the second Stirling release comes so close on the heels of the first. The upside is that Corgi is releasing historically significant aircraft first.

I suspect that this would preclude any upgrades called for after the first release. The biggest issue relating to the stance of the beast on its undercarriage.

The second Stirling is the mount of an Australian Victoria Cross recipient, Flight Sergeant Rawdon Hume Middleton, Royal Australian Air Force, No. 149 Squadron.

For more insights please follow the links provided below.

http://www.bomber-command.info/vcmiddleton.htm

http://www.awm.gov.au/people/860.asp

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ron_Middleton

Corgi Lancaster AA32618

2012-01-03T21:37:00.000+02:00

BIG BIG NEWS for Lancaster fans!!!! Corgi is releasing a bulged bay Lancaster in the form of B.1 LM220/WS-Y "Getting Younger Every Day" of No.9 Sqn., the very first bulged bomb bay Lanc!!!!

This Lancaster was fitted with bulged bomb bay doors to allow it to carry a 12,000-lb Tallboy bomb for use against the Tirpitz, during which raid LM220 was flown by Flt Lt W D Tweddle and crew.

To save on weight and allow for a long range fuel tank to be fitted the mid-upper turret was removed.

The nose art of an elderly gentleman with a pint of beer, and the slogan "GETTING YOUNGER EVERYDAY" referred to a contemporary advert for the products of William Younger's brewery.

Although damaged in March 1945, LM220 survived the war, only to be scrapped at No 5 MU in November 1946.

Corgi April to June 2012 Catalogue - Aviation Archive

2012-01-03T21:11:00.001+02:00

Corgi Avro Lancaster B. Mk.I, LM220, RAF 9 Sqn., "Getting Younger Everyday"

Corgi Short Stirling Mk.I, O-JH, RAF 149 Sqn., Middleton VC

Corgi Westland Wessex XS518 847 NAS Coded X-P Falklands 1982 (Falklands 30th Anniversary)

Corgi Avro Vulcan B.2. XM598, 50 Sqn, Wideawake Air Base, Ascension Island 1982 (Falklands 30th Anniversary)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

2012-01-01T20:07:00.000+02:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

We'd like to wish you all a very prosperous, healthy and die-cast filled new year!!! We know that there just has to be something out there you NEED to enhance your collections!!!

Thank you for supporting Dora 9 Diecast and we look forward to being of service, meeting your needs in 2012!!!

Looking forward to meeting more collectors and introducing more folks to the wonderful world of die-cast aviation!!!

Pre-production pictures of the new Hobby Master Mitsubishi T-2 CCV Testbed.

2011-12-29T10:27:00.000+02:00

The Mitsubishi T-2 was chosen by the Technical Research and Development

Institute(TRDI) of the Japan Defense Agency to test new technology. The

aircraft selected was the third T-2 manufactured; serial 29-5103 c/n 003. It

would be the test bed for the CCV (Control Configuration Vehicle) studies.

Fixed canards were mounted on the intakes just in front of the wings with a

movable canard under the fuselage. The objective was to study airflow to see

if such a configuration could improve maneuverability.

Pre-production pictures of the new Hobby Master RAAF F-111C No.1 Sqn.

2011-12-29T10:08:00.003+02:00

The RAAF ordered 24 F-111Cs that had serials A8-125 to A8-148. On September 4

1968 the RAAF was handed the first F-111C but the advanced wing sweep

mechanism had problems. It wasn’t until 1973 when the problem was solved
and RAAF acceptance was given.

The 24 aircraft were delivered in 4 flights with the first flight arriving at

Amberley on June 1, 1973. The lead aircraft was A8-125 flown by Group Captain

J.W. Newham and Wing Commander T.C. Owen. A8-148, the last aircraft arrived
on December 4, 1973.

The aircraft was in service with 1 Squadron and then transferred to 6 Squadron.

A8-148’s last live ordnance drop took place on May 12-13, 2010. The aircraft was

retired on December 3, 2010 and there is a chance it may be heading for

preservation.

Final production pictures of the McDonnell CF-101B Voodoo.

2011-12-29T09:57:00.002+02:00

The only major foreign operator of the Voodoo was the Royal Canadian Air
Force (RCAF) that acquired 56 CF-101B and 10 CF-101F. 416 Fighter Squadron
formed in November 1941 and became the “Lynx” All-Weather Fighter Squadron
in February 1957.

In January 1962 416 AWFS moved to Bagotville, Quebec and in November 1962

they moved to CFB Chatham, New Brunswick for 22 years. Former USAF Voodoo

57-382 entered Canadian service as CF-101B c/n 560 serial 101045 in May 1971

until September 1984.

At the end of 1984 the Voodoos were replaced by CF-18 Hornets and the 416

became a TFS and were the world's last front-line unit flying Voodoos.

Final production pictures of the Free Kuwait Air Force A-4KU.

2011-12-29T09:42:00.003+02:00

In 1976 Kuwait purchased 30 A-4KU and 6 TA-4KU aircraft and operated them until 1997. The Skyhawks entered service with Nos. 9 and 25 Squadrons. When Iraqi forces invaded Kuwait some of the A-4KUs were able to get airborne and actually attacked the advancing forces but weren’t able to halt the aggression. Once the Kuwait airfields were taken over the A-4KUs were flown to Saudi Arabia where the crews and equipment were integrated into the Royal Saudi Air Force operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

During the time they Kuwait aircraft were in Saudi Arabia they became known as the Free Kuwait Air Force and carried out 1,361 sorties with a loss of only 1 aircraft. After Desert Storm the A-4KUs were eventually replaced by F/A-18C/D Hornets. After Desert Storm 20 A-4KU and 3 TA-4KUs were sold to the Brazilian Navy for use on their aircraft carrier Minas Gerais. One of the A-4KUs was aircraft 809 had BuNo.160188 c/n 14556 and it went to the Brazilian Navy as AF-1 serial N-1005.

Illustration of how the new Hobby Master F4U Corsair wing works.

2011-12-18T10:40:00.000+02:00

Here are the latest images from Hobby Master illustrating how the wing on their new F4U Corsair works.

Pictures of the new Corgi Stirling from Todd in California.

2011-12-17T23:41:00.010+02:00

No.4, a fellow forum member, has kindly agreed to share pictures of his newly arrived Stirling.

Initial impressions are very good although there are a few niggles in terms of details like the tiny oval windows ahead of the cockpit, tail guns, yellow practice bombs and particularly the low stance.

I really like the look of the model, it clearly shows the awesome size of this aircraft, long fuselage and stubby wings. The colours and insignia look pretty good too. All we need now is a comparison with the Lancaster and Halifax.

Thank you very much no4mkit, awesome pictures. Nice to be first to have your pics up too. Good on you mate!!!

On the Collectors Front.

2011-12-17T21:57:00.009+02:00

There have been a few models arriving or passing through customs at present. Models not already allocated will be available on Bid or Buy.

From Hobby Master we have:
F-102A Delta Dagger, USAF 525th FIS Fighting Bulldogs
F/A-18C Hornet, USN VA-81 Sunliners, AA401, USS Saratoga

F-5N VF-111 Sundowners

From Corgi:

Boulton Paul Defiant - RAF 141 Sqn, Cock o' North
A-4F Skyhawk, USN VA-212 Rampant Raiders, NP300, USS Hancock
Harrier GR.Mk 3 Diecast Model, RAF No.4 Sqn, RAF Gutersloh, Germany, 1992 Ju 87B Stuka Diecast Model, Luftwaffe 2./StG 3, Derna, Libya, 1941
P-47D Thunderbolt, USAAF 218th FG, 19th FS, "Miss Mary Lou"
P-40E Warhawk, "Texas Longhorn", John Landers
P-40E Warhawk, "Typhoon McGoon", Clyde Kinsley
Nimrod MR.Mk 1, RAF Kinloss Wing, RAF Kinloss, Scotland, 1977

From SkyMax:

STRIKEMASTER Mk 80A VIPER TEAM G-VPER ROYAL SAUDI AIR FORCE

From Oxford:

Kitty Hawk MkI A Neville Duke 1943

From Sun Star:

F-117 Stealth Fighter - USAF 410TS "PALMDALE"

From Atlas:

Lockheed P-38 Lightning & Fw190D-9
Mosquito FB.VI & Ki 61 Tony
Zero & F4U Corsair
P-40 & Bf109

The Corgi Short Stirling has landed!!!

2011-12-16T10:43:00.000+02:00

The Corgi Short Stirling has arrived!!! Collectors on die-cast aviation forums are indicating that they have received shipping confirmation for the new model. Many retailers have indicated that the model has been sold out on pre-order ages ago.

I've also contacted my supplier and he has indicated that D9D should be receiving its Stirlings in January. The models have already been allocated. The only pictures available seem to have been pulled by the retailer already due to his allocation being sold out.

These pictures are courtesy of the Flying Mule.

Pre-production pictures of the new Hobby Master F4U Corsair!!!

2011-12-14T14:37:00.000+02:00

As many of you are aware Hobby Master is doing an F4U Corsair in 1/48 scale. Truth be told, I'm rather looking forward to it. Hobby Master has some pre-production pictures available with the list of features.

Features:

1/48 scale pre-finished.
Straight wing section can be removed and replaced with a section
that makes it look like the wings are folded, no hinges.
Die-cast metal with a minimum of plastic.
Professionally painted.
All markings pad applied for superb results.
Canopy slides open.
Comes with a pilot that can be removed.
Comes with display stand.
Landing gear is fully retractable and can be displayed up or down.
Extremely sought after by collectors.

Wings and Wheels Show, additional photos by Shane Swartz.

2011-12-13T12:01:00.003+02:00

Shane is continually updating his album as the photographs are processed. Here are his latest updates.

Eness Photography Wheels of the Wings and Wheels Airshow.

2011-12-12T18:38:00.000+02:00

Neil Shannon also took a good few pictures capturing the drama on the 4x4 course as well as the high speed runs along the taxiway where we were positioned on the crowd line for the airshow.

Gotta say that '67 Mustang looked and sounded fantastic!!!

Wings and Wheels Show, photos by Neil Shannon, Eness Photography.

2011-12-12T18:25:00.000+02:00

On Saturday Neil Shannon joined the intrepid band of aviation enthusiasts with his camera. Neil is long time friend and valued D9D client. These are his results.

More pics of Wings and Wheels by Shane.

2011-12-12T13:38:00.001+02:00

Thank you Shane. Good to see the blog works!!! Looking forward to more shots of the Gripen!!! I'll just add to the blog as necessary.

This gent hasn't yet figured out that brute force doesn't always work. He was negotiating the 4x4 obstacle course right in front of us where I met Robert and Bronwyn. Lovely couple and a young lady truly animated and passionate about aviation.

Hobby Master Releases for February 2012.

2011-12-12T11:24:00.000+02:00

Some interesting releases due in February next year. Stand outs in 1/72 include the RF-101B Recon Voodoo, a Finnish Hornet and a Cuban MiG 15. There's also an F-4, colourful F-106, another F-100C, Dutch two seat F-104 and a Korean MiG 15.

In 1/48 is the second F4U Corsair, this time flown by Pappy Boyington of the famous Black Sheep US Marine Squadron. A beautiful Spitfire Mk.XIV from Duxford Flying Legends Airshow 2006. It should be noted that Flying Legends is the airshow of airshows for those into WWII aircraft.

Honourable mention goes to the German Staff Car, a VW Beetle!!!

Wings and Wheels Show, photos by Shane Swartz.

2011-12-12T11:02:00.000+02:00

Shane was one of the guys I had the pleasure of hooking up with at the airshow. His dedication was second to none!!! I bugged out for the beer garden and left him taking his photos. We both thought Friday was a bit of a fizzle and I didn't rush back on Saturday morning. He was there after seven!!!

Conspicuous by its absence is the Hawk. I hope he posts pics of the Hawk soon.

Wings and Wheels Show, AFB Ysterplaat, 9 & 10 December.

2011-12-12T09:43:00.006+02:00

I attended the Wings and Wheels show at AFB Ysterplaat on both days in the company of a few clients and friends. As a concept I think the idea of combining wings and wheels was a failure.

I've never seen so few people attend an airshow!!! Friday was totally underwhelming. The lag time between having aircraft in the air was at times absolutely dismal.

In fact, I've never spent as much time in the beer garden at an airshow. I don't even drink!!! Good thing I was in the company of Nicholas Draycott, an avid collector and valued client.

I would have liked to see more military aviation flying displays. The civilian contingent was very competent and flew so impressive displays. In the end the jet displays were what did it for me.

The Jet Provost seemed to stagger into the air but once airbourne gave a spirited display. The L-39 trio flew a nice display but could have been a little tighter. Honourable mention must go to the T-28 Trojan which was a joy to see flying and the RV formation.

I enjoyed the Sea Lynx in action and was surprised to see the Silver Falcons do a perfect star burst. For some reason they always seem to have an issue with one plane being a little off. Well done guys, and girl. Yes, there's a girl flying with the Silver Falcons!!!

The highlights of the show on both days were the Hawk and Gripen. Both were a joy to behold. The Hawk surprised with its power and speed while Gripen had the crowd in awe with its stunning agility. Thank goodness for the Hawk and Gripen!!!

If there was one very very big disappointment, it was that the P-51 Mustang did not make it to the show. That would really have been something for Capetonians to see. I would have liked to see the Bosbok and Gazelle. Oh!!! One other thing, have you ever attended an airshow without seeing a Harvard???

I wasn't big into the wheels side and what was on offer at the crowd line was the 4x4 course and some fast runs were done with high performance cars along the taxiway. In the distance was what appeared to be a rally car doing its stuff but it was lost on spectators. The gymkhana sounded interesting with squealing tyres but I was there for an airshow.

Honda VFR 800X launch at Spier.

2011-12-12T00:00:00.003+02:00

Today, well since it's midnight, technically yesterday, I had the privilege of being invited to the launch of the new Honda VFR 800 X Crossrunner held at Spier.

The morning started drinks and snacks upon arrival, the Honda hosts provided some interesting conversation, particularly a Japanese representative who shared some insights in Honda with us. Potentially we'll see a 1200cc dual purpose bike to compete with the GS1200 and the like by February/March next year.

This was followed by introductions to senior Honda personnel and their introductions and then some history and the V4 machines. Honda RC buff did a presentation on the RC 30 and RC 45 which he brought down from Guateng.

Then we went for a ride!!! The only thing that detracted was that due to the overwhelming turnout, ride time was severely limited. Onto the bikes then! I found the VFR800X attractive and I liked the upright riding position. It's the perfect commuter with what looks to be a decent pillion position.

On my first run I thought the bike was a bit dull and said as much to my mates. It was suggested that I run the 800 harder into the rev range. Well, on the next run the group I was with just took off!!! I wasn't left with much choice and the bike did pull very strongly. That VFR800X wasn't half bad.

I swapped out for a VFR1200F when the group turned around. The riding position was immediately more aggressive. The bike felt good immediately I pulled away, comfortable, quiet and very very smooth. Twist the throttle open and boom!!! You're just trust forward. Now that's bike!!!

I had to stand on the brakes from high speed. The braking was very impressive and undramatic even though I reckon it should have been very dramatic. Both the VFR800X and the VFR1200F were equipped with ABS.

Thanks to the very friendly people at Honda I had a very enjoyable outing in some very good company. Great day, great people, great bikes!!! What more could you want??? A VFR1200F that's what!!!

Falcon Models Israeli Mirage III.

2011-12-03T13:48:00.000+02:00

I suspect many in South Africa will be interested in the 1/72 scale Falcon Models Mirage III. The second release is in Israeli colours. Falcon advise that issues with the intakes will hopefully be addressed by the 3rd release, the Swiss Mirage III. The 4th release is likely to be a camouflaged Israeli aircraft.

Corgi release information, UK.

2011-12-03T11:25:00.003+02:00

Corgi Release Schedule for as of January 2012

Item Description Release Month

AA39601 Hawker Hart, K2986, 600 (City of London) Sqn RAuxAF, RAF Hendon, January 1935 Jan-12

AA33420 Westland Sea King HRH Prince William Training Flight SAR 2011 22 Sqn SPECIAL EDITION Feb-12

AA37806 Albatross DVa Ltn Helmut Dilthey, Jasta 40, Mid-1918 Jan-12

AA38506 Bf110 C-4/B, Schnell Kampf Geschwader 210, Russian Front 1941 Jan-12

AA36310A Fairey Swordfish MkI, L2742, 81 NAS, HMS Courageous, 1937 (floats) Feb-12

AA36310B Fairey Swordfish MkI, L2742, 810 NAS, HMS Courageous, 1937 (wheels) Feb-12

AA31605 Handley Page Victor B2 139 'Jamaica' Sqn RAF Wittering 1964 Mar-12

AA32314 English Electric (BAC) Lightning F6 5 Sqn, RAF Binbrook 1984 Feb-12

AA39702A Hawker Hurricane Mk. IIc - BN230, FT-A, 43 Sqn RAF, Sqn Ldr D.du Vivier Acklington 1942 Feb-12

AA36807 Westland Lysander Mk.IIIa V9289, 357 Sqn, Burma 1945 Mar-12

AA39303 Boulton Paul Defiant Mk.I 307 (Polish) Sqn EW-K, N3437 Mar-12

AA34604 DeHavilland Mosquito FBVI - HX922, EG-F, RAF 487 Sqn, Grp Capt P.C. Pickard, Amiens Raid, February 1944 Apr-12

AA39801 Panavia Tornado F3, ZE763/HD, 111 Sqn, RAF Leuchars, Scotland 2010 Apr-12

AA39403 Vickers Valiant B Mk.1, WZ404, 207 Sqn, RAF Luqa, Malta, Suez Crisis 1956 Apr-12

AA39602 Hawker Demon, K2905, 41 Sqn, C Flight, RAF Northolt, Autumn 1934 May-12

AA39205 Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IIa, P7308, 71 'Eagle' Sqn, RAF North Weald 1941 May-12

AA27001 Westland Puma HC Mk.1 ,XW219, 230 Sqn, RAF Benson, November 2009 Jun-12

AA34409 North American Mustang Mk.IV GA-S 112 Sqn RAF, Italy, May 1945 Jul-12

Corgi Stirling Update.

2011-12-03T11:21:00.002+02:00

Corgi would like to assure customers that AA39501 Short Stirling Mkl has been requested for urgent dispatch before Christmas. It is still uncertain as to whether Corgi can commit to this but we are all hoping that this can be achieved. The final dispatch date for 2011 will be Wednesday 21st December. Corgi News will keep you updated on the progress of this model.