Desert Storm - U.S. OV-10A and OV-11r. aircraft) 1:48 ICM 483020D+ (199

Plastic model airplane kit: Desert Storm - American OV-10A and OV-10D aircraft (1991) 1:48 ICM 48302

The plastic model kit: "Desert Storm - American OV-10A and OV-10D aircraft" in 1:48 scale from ICM (catalog number 48302) is a set that allows you to recreate two modifications of the Bronco aircraft that participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991. This set is an excellent proposition for military aviation enthusiasts and modelers interested in the history of contemporary armed conflicts.

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:48
• Manufacturer: ICM
• Catalog number: 48302

Contents of the set:

• Two aircraft models: OV-10A and OV-10D+
• Painting schemes in desert camouflage
• Decals with two marking options for each aircraft

Historical background: The OV-10 Bronco aircraft were designed as light attack and observation aircraft to support counterinsurgency operations (COIN). Their development began in the 1960s, and one of the main tasks was to serve as Forward Air Control (FAC) aircraft. The OV-10 Bronco could carry up to 1450 kg of external armament and internal loads, such as paratroopers or stretchers, and could remain airborne for over three hours.

During Operation Desert Storm, which began on January 17, 1991, OV-10 Bronco aircraft were used by the United States Marine Corps for reconnaissance, targeting, and communication missions. They were stationed in Saudi Arabia as part of the 3rd Marine Wing, where they played a crucial role in detecting the positions of Iraqi forces, which were then attacked by American attack aircraft and naval artillery. This was the last combat operation in which the OV-10 Bronco was used by the U.S. Marine Corps before being retired from combat service in 1994. However, various modifications of these aircraft continued to be operated in other countries.

Design features: The OV-10 Bronco featured a central fuselage where the pilots and payload were located, and twin booms housing the turboprop engines. The aircraft could perform short takeoffs and landings, including on aircraft carriers and large amphibious assault ships, without the use of catapults or arrestor wires. The aircraft's design allowed operations from unpaved runways, and repairs could be carried out using standard tools. The engines could run on high-octane automotive fuel with minimal power loss. The aircraft was equipped with ejection seats, which were standard in the design, and many successful ejections occurred during its service. The OV-10 could carry a variety of armaments, including M60C machine guns as well as rockets and bombs.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. For assembly, separately sold modeling tools (including cutters, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement) are needed. The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.