I am sure that many of you like myself, have been waiting for the release of the first Hudson from ICM in 1/48th scale. It has now arrived. Opening the box I have found a complaint, and that is due to all of the sprues being in 1 bag, 2 of the sprues have been warped considerably - these contain the wings and so assembly may be more of a task then initially expected. With that said, surface detail on all exterior faces is very pleasing and the clear parts have been supplied on a sprue reminiscent of Eduard.
Before you even get to start the model, there are some holes that need to be drilled. These are marked internally on the fuselage and the drill size is also provided and so I commend ICM for this effort. The fact that you have to drill quite so many holes indicates to me the number of follow up Hudsons may be in the works. I do not have anything Hudson related to check the accuracy of the moldings against, beyond looking and comparing to on-line images, and from my observations I believe you will be happy with what ICM is presenting.
The cockpit detail is generally pleasing, but I am sure you will not be surprised to hear that the harness detail is not present. A superb inclusion is what are usually called 3D printed decals for the instrument panels, well done ICM. Detail travelling backwards through the fuselage interior looks to be well tackled, but as always with injection molded models, some detail has to go due to the limitations of the material. However, from what I can see, I am happy with what is present.
The radial engines are one area where improvement would be possible should it be so desired, mostly wiring loom detail and refinment/improvement on what is supplied. The Cowlings are not designed to be left off, and so you will need to consider how to progress this aspect should you desire to display the engines. The engine nacelles and the undercarriage are assembled prior to installation in the wings and this does mean that care will need to be taken in order to avoid breakages.
A number of fine aerial detail needs to be added to the side of the fuselage and this means that care will need to be taken to avoid breakages. The addition of the wings to the fuselage will be aided greatly via the 2 wing spars that are included. The wheels of the model are not weighted, which is a shame. In typical ICM fashion a template is included for making masks to use during the painting of the model which is always a plus. ICM has provided 4 finishing options for this release:
Lockheed Hudson Mk III. T9465 “Spirit of Lockheed-Vega Employees” - No. 269 Swuadron. Kaldadarnes, May 1941
Lockheed Hudson Mk.III. T9390, No 269 Squadron Kaldadarnes, Late 1941
Lockheed Hudson Mk. III. V9232. No 53 squadron, Guamtanamo Bay, August 1942
Lockheed Hudson Mk. III. NZ2014, 2 (GR) Squadron (RNZAF), Nelson, 1942