Here we look at an ICM release offering two 1/48th scale versions of the Bronco in one box titled Dessert Storm US Aircraft OV-10A and OV-10D+, 1991.

Introduction

The following introduction is as provided by ICM:

On August 2nd, 1990, Iraq launched an invasion on Kuwait. In response, the multinational coalitions forces developed and conducted an operation call Dessert Storm. The start of the operation, which began on January 17th, 1991, was a massive air and missle strike by Allied forces. The ground phase of the operations involved the US Marine Corps, whose aircraft was armed with OV-10 Bronco aircraft of various modifications. These aircraft were based in Saudi Arabia, and were part of the 3rd Marine Wing, providing guidance, targeting and communications. The OV-10 Bronco found firing positions of Iraqi forces, which were later used by American attack aircraft and Naval artillery. They also supported Marine attacks. This operation was the last episode of combat use of OV-10 Bronco aircraft in the US Marine Corps, and in 1994 they were finally withdrawn from its combat. However, the operation various modifications of these aircraft continued in other countries. 

Review

This offering from ICM is provided in a substantial cardboard tray, with a flip top lid with a card cover that provides the artwork. The contents are provided in three re-sealable plastic bags, with the clear parts having their own bags within these bags. An examination of the contents reveals no obvious issues, but with two models being packaged over three bags the risk of damage is possible. The contents of this release enables the modeller to build an OV-10A and OV-10D+ Broncos. The instruction booklet is loose in the box, with the decals protected between its pages. Due to these models being released for the 2nd time I have kept the review Brief.

The cockpits of both models are good, with very little differences between the two offerings. Decals are provided for the instrument panels. Having seen builds of these models, I do know that further enhancements can be made by the modeller, but it is my opinion the average modeller will be happy with what is provided, with the exception of the harness detail. The area of the fuselage surrounding the cockpit has further cockpit detail moulded on the inner face. The portion of the fuselage surrounding the cockpit is made up of three main panels, plus the stubby weapons wings. There are a number of holes that will need to be drilled, and I am pleased to say that the needed drill size has been included in the model. 

The nose wheel strut causes me some concerns, as there is small mating surfaces between the three parts that make it up, and I am a little bit concerned about its strength. The exterior areas of the fuselage have a nice level of panel detail that again should please most. The wing structure is made up of a single upper piece, with wing spars added at the start of the twin booms - I believe this is to prevent drooping. The underside of the wings is made up of four individual panels, some drilling is again required and again the drill size has been provided. 

Flight control surfaces have been provided separately, including ailerons which you can position as desired. The external detail of the panels lines and rivet lines is well replicated. The canopy of the aircraft is made of four parts, and is a very large structure which will allow a good view of the cockpit interior. I am pleased to see that the thickness of the clear parts has prevented distortion when looking through it. The booms of the models have good external detail as previously mentioned, concerning external areas. With the wheel bays being assembled prior to addition to the booms, I again have concerns over the strength of the wheel struts, as I believe it will take very little to break them. The vertical control surfaces are again provided as separate pieces enabling display as desired. 

The tails horizontal area has again been provided with separate control flaps for positioning as wished. The wheels of the model are moulded in two halves, but the tread detail replicated should hide the joint. A nice inclusion by ICM is a pattern for cutting the masks for the clear areas. Perculiaries of the D+ variant concerns some details of the cockpit interior, the area below the nose - where a doomed structure is installed, and some aspects of the engine venting system. Included with this release ia a weapons pack which consists of:

AIM-9 Sidewinder

LAU-10A

LUA-68

LAU-69A

100 Gallon Fuel Tank

150 Gallon Fuel Tank

The placement of these items on the tow models has been covered under the assembly instructions. 

Two finishing option have been provided for each model, in the case of the OV-10A :

155428, Marine Observation Squadron 2 (VMO-2), Saudi Arabia 1991

155454, Marine Observation Squadron 2 (VMO-2), Saudi Arabia 1991

The two versions of the OV-10+ are:

155473, Marine Observation Squadron 2 (VMO-2), Saudi Arabia 1991

155494, Marine Observation Squadron 2 (VMO-2), Saudi Arabia 1991

Conclusion

This release from ICM brings together two models of the same aircraft, with the slight differences being areas that the modeller can pick out. The models themselves are of a good quality, but as with everything in life it will be up to the input of the individual as to how much effort and after market they will put into get everything just so. The most obvious issue being the lack of harness detail. The oddities of the Bronco make this a pleasing aircraft to build, with the large glazed area making any efforts the modeller makes with the cockpit interior worth while. All we need to wait for now is the release of aircraft in use with other countries such as the Luftwaffe.

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