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1/48 Italeri AH-64D Longbow Apache |
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RSAF '061' |
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by David Bey |
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1/48 Italeri AH-64D Longbow Apache |
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RSAF '061' |
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by David Bey |
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I built this as a commission build for a friend. Initially, I wanted to use the Hasegawa kit as it was more accurate straight from the box, but after finding none in the city of Singapore, I had to settle with the next best, shape-wise, which was the Italeri kit. This was my second time attempting this kit, and I was not much better off. I had also intended to submit it for the Helo GB, but due to LITENING II pod works and lack of stencils, it was delayed.
The cockpit in the Italeri kit
represents an A model apache. D models are different in that there are 2 large
MFDs for the CPG and the pilot. I attempted to scratchbuild the MFDs. I also
junked a few pieces of the suggested cockpit, after viewing reference photos
RSAF birds also have a few other
external differences: the laser warning receivers on the tail boom and just
above the intakes; as well as a HF antenna on the tail boom. Furthermore, the
italeri kit had incorrectly shaped fuel tanks, of which I attempted to
correct. Alas, the grilles on the rear end of the fuel tank were not easy for
me to replicate and I left them off.
The kit was then painted in standard US Army helo green, which to me was a mix of gunze 301, olive drab, black, and FS36118. Reference photos showed that under strong sunlight, the helo green looked more dark gray. Decals were a mix of custom decals done on an inkjet, and Hasegawa kit stencils which were VERY kindly provided to me by Andrew DeBoer.
The pictures you see here were
taken with a flash, hence the washing out of the helo green. I resolve also to
only always build the Hasegawa apache from now on.
Happy 41st Birthday Singapore!
References:
David
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Photos and text © by David Bey
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Singapore National Day 2006 
