F4F-3 is probably my favourite Wildcat variant. It was this version that carried the first burden of US Navy and US Marine Corps fighting after the outbreak of the Pacific War. It took part in the defense of Wake Island, fought in the Coral Sea, and escorted American aircraft carriers during the most difficult period of the war. It also has something very \u201cnaval\u201d about it \u2014 a compact silhouette, short wings, and the distinctive, austere look of early US Navy aircraft.<\/p>\n
I will certainly return to this model several more times \u2014 both in wartime and pre-war schemes. The next one I build will be a Wildcat from the defense of Wake Island. The F4F subject also reminded me how enjoyable the other Arma Hobby Wildcats are to build. The classic F4F-4 and FM-2 are also slowly making their way onto my workbench. So many models, so little time \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n
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The model shown here was built almost straight from the box, using test shots of the Arma Hobby F4F-3 Wildcat 1\/72 kit (70090).<\/p>\n
In the cockpit I added only a few small 3D-printed details and Quinta seatbelts. It is worth remembering that early Wildcats had only lap belts. The cockpit decals do a very good job of bringing the interior to life, so there is practically no need for additional accessories.<\/p>\n
The Day Fighting Three Broke the 4th Kokutai<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n