Monday, November 17, 2008

Some News from Telford

Once again, I didn't make it to Telford for the IPMS/UK ScaleModelWorld, but some news from the show is floating back across the pond. The most exciting news for me is that in addition to the previously announced new tool 1/72 Spitfire IX, Airfix will also be doing a new tool 1/72 Spitfire XIX. Almost as exciting is that Airfix are doing a new tool Sea Harrier FRS.1 and...drum roll please...Sea Harrier F/A.2. I am really looking forward to these releases, along with the previously announced 1/72 Hawks and Canberras. Airfix are also planning a new tool MiG-15 in 1/72. Interesting choice, and one I would have been really excited about a year ago, but it will be interesting to see how it compares to the new, and very nice, Hobby Boss MiG-15s. It is nice to see Airfix back and issuing new kits in 1/72. (For full disclosure Airfix also have a new 1/72 -109G, and a 1/48 Sea Vixen on the boards for 2009.)

Hannants had announced just before the show that they would a "previously unannounced" Xtrakit available at the show. Turns out it is a Sea Harrier F/A.2. As is common for Xtrakit kit was tooled by MPM/Special Hobby, and technically isn't "previously unannounced," as Special Hobby as had a SHAR2 on their new release list for a year or so. I immediately put one on order as I am a huge Harrier fan and have long wanted a Sea Harrier F/A.2 for the collection. Sadly, after doing so, first reports are the kit isn't really up to the usual MPM standard, and it may be best to wait for the new Airfix kit... I'll report back when I get my copy.

P.S.: In other great Spitfire news, it appears that Sweet is doing a 1/144 Spitfire IX. Sweet!

1 comment:

David M. Knights said...

I am also glad to see Airfix back in the business of making new 72nd scale kits. My only question is what will the quality be like?