1/72 Hasegawa F-15C

43rd Fighter Squadron Group Build  

by Ken Middleton

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Background

This is my Hasegawa F-15C in 72nd, built for Waco’s 43rd Fighter Squadron Group Build. The markings depict the squadron when based at Elmendorf, AFB, Alaska. This was the last base the unit was at before being disbanded, and was recently resurrected at Tyndall AFB, Florida, and now flying the F/A-22 Raptor. 

The Kit

This kit is the best one in 72nd scale to make a C or late model A version of the F-15. The nozzles always give me trouble in terms of lining the petals up as I go around. I usually have to do a bit of filling. I wanted to tackle the nozzles first as they are one of the toughest parts. The right one ended up a bit egg-shaped.

One of the "arms' was broken off the speed brake even before removing it from the sprue. I raided another kit for a replacement. 

The radome is molded as part of the forward fuselage, so care must be taken to eliminate the seams on the top and bottom. 

Based on the timeframe of the markings, I added AIM-9 Sidewinders and AIM-7 Sparrows for weapons. 

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Decals

I used Repliscale decals for the markings. The lighter grey sections basically disappeared when applied on the lighter grey camo. There was a serial number that went on the base of the tail, but you couldn't see it! So I took it off.

I also had a minor disaster putting the left stabilator on... the pin broke off, so I wanted to add a new metal one since I was shipping this, and didn't think a butt-joint would be strong enough. I drilled a tiny hole, but the heat (I think) caused the top of the stabilator to cave in. So now I had a small hole. I filled it with putty, sanded and touched up with paint. It looks OK I guess. I inserted a paper clip portion for the new pin.

Shipping to Florida

Here’s a shot of the model in its shipping box. Even with the care taken, one of the stabilizers broke off, but Waco fortunately was able to fix it. Thanks Waco.

 

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It was an honor to participate in this group build, and have the model displayed at the 43rd Fighter Squadron. I have wanted to build an Alaskan F-15C for a while, and this fit the bill perfectly. I was sent some terrific 43rd FS and F/A-22 memorabilia by Waco for participating in the build.

Ken

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Photos and text © by Ken Middleton