Heller 1/72 AMD Etendard IVM

HELLER 1:72 DASSAULT ETENDARD IVM
'INBOX Review'

Reviewer: John Lacey (rec.models.scale)

History

An older cousin of the Dassault Super Etendard, this aircraft was a much simpler design originally intended as a tactical fighter for NATO. In later years, the type would fly as the IVP shipboard reconnaissance aircraft, the IVM replaced by the Super Etendard My own purchase of this kit is to convert it to an IVP aircraft in a later disruptive camouflage scheme.

The Sprues

An older Heller kit, the aircraft has raised panel lines which will cause problems with sanding as some of the details are split along two components (eg, the fuselage is split horizontally). On a more positive note, all wheel wells are ‘boxed in’ although devoid of internal detail with only the outer gear doors separately moulded. The exhaust is a closed tube added to the rear of the fuselage, but the intakes lead into the fuselage with no blanking plates or detail. The cockpit is a curious one, with the ‘tub’ being moulded as part of the lower fuselage into which an instrument panel (with decaled face), control column and one-piece ‘bang’ seat are added. The arrestor hook is also moulded as part of the lower fuselage, although a careful wash should highlight it enough for realism. The clear parts consist of canopy, windscreen and gunsight and are a little thick, indicative of the kit’s age.

The Options

Whilst not really noted as options, the following are present:

Undercarriage – ‘Wheels up’ shouldn’t’ be too much of a chore.

Canopy – Separate so therefore poseable

Airbrakes – Moulded details and retraction jacks, although closed would be easy enough.

Flaps – A surprise inclusion of separate flaps.

Stores – Two drop tanks and two FFAR pods, although the latter have their pylons moulded as part of the pod’s body, requiring surgery if any other stores are considered.

The Instructions

Typical older Heller here with five construction steps with detail painting notes and a painting guide along with a brief history.

Camouflage & Markings

One aircraft in early grey over white is provided for belonging to ‘59S’ of the Aeronavale flying out of Hyeres in France in 1983. This unit designator is unknown to me, as most of the ‘Flotille’ that operated the Etendard & Super Etendard were ‘teen’ designated (eg 14 F). No mention is made of the carrier it was assigned to (either the Clemenceau or Foch) unless the unit was a purely land based unit, although I find this very unlikely, given that only four Flotilles operated the machines. The decals themselves are very matt and in good register, including some stencilling and a tiny pair of unit badges. Paints are either Heller or Humbrol, although some colours will require mixing which could be a chore.

Conclusions

Whilst many will bemoan the simplicity of the kit due to it’s age, it is simply the only Etendard in town and so will have to be accepted for it’s faults if this Avions Marcel Dassault product needs to be in your line up. For myself, Oui!

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