Homepage Text - January 2012

Tuesday,    Jan 3 1  2012

Hot Babe of the Week!  this week  from Twobobs is courtesy of Lt "Swift" Hesse. Swift sent us pics and got a hold of me a couple of months ago and said, "Hey Bob, do up our CAG jet!" We'll put this one in the hopper and get to it as fast as we can Swift. Thanks for the pics.    Enjoy!      Bob


Burt Gustafson has done a first class OOB on his 1/48 Scale Kinetic 2000B.  Burt finished his attractive Mirage trainer in French Air Force (Armée de l'Air) with drop tanks and missiles.  I love the look of this one Burt.

Alvis 3.1 is here with some Top Secret pics of his 1/24 PanzerPorschen 928.  This is a model of the actual ARC Moderators car that they prowl the forum in as they deal with spammers and problem threads.  It has a trailer hitch...but that is another story.......check out the license plate.  Too cool!!!

Hakan SÖYLEMEZOĞLU has done a fantastic job on his 1/72 Revell F-16D Block 50 AKINCI.  This Turkish F-16 has a full weapons load with RBF tags and fill weathering.  Wow....this F-16 is very realistic.  Wonderful work Hakan.

Here's a product article for the 1/32 F-4 J VX-4 Vandy 1 "Black Bunny" Dry Transfer + Water-Slide Decals from Hobby Decal.


Here's a product article for the Phantom West Poster from Reid Air Publications.  Each print is available in 11 x 16 or 16 x 25 inches. They'll be adding additional sizes and additional prints at a later date. Most of the images are pulled straight from their books, so if there is a specific image you'd like a print of, they can easily do a custom print. 


Here's a product article for the 1/48 S-25-L Air-to-Ground Rocket from Aerobonus.  This latest release is a set of two Russian S-25-L Air-to-Ground Rocket.  This rocket is suitable for the Su-17, Su-22, Su-24, Su-25, MiG-27 and the MiG-29. 


Monday,   Jan 30  2012

  Liberation of Camp Pangatian, Philippines 

This weeks Twobobs Newsletter is up.  Bob has images of the instruction sheets for the new F-5F Double Trouble sheet which is released for sale this coming Friday!  This sheet has 6 different jets with the Platypus nose and great looking aggressor camo schemes.  This sheet is going to be a hot seller.

Artur Oslizlo has done an exceptional job on his 1/48 Hobbyboss MiG-17F.  Artur added an Aires resin cockpit, Quickboost gun barrels and wheels and then finished it off with Syrian markings and a full weathering job over the desert camo.  Wow...I love how this MiG-17 looks.

Tony Feredo is here from the Philippines with his 1/48 Tamiya Ki-84 Hayate (Frank).  This is a Ki-84 that served in the Philippines during WW2 and Tony has captured the chipped paint job perfectly. Excellent work Tony.

Rod Bettencourt has mastered the fine art of bare metal finishes as you will see with his 1/48 Hasegawa F-104G.  Rod added Eduard photo etch set and a Verlinden seat to his Luke AFB Starfighter and ended up with a flawless looking F-104.  Wow Rod......your photos look like a real jet.

Here's a product article for the 1/32 IAF F-4E 'Kurnass' conversion set from IsraCast

This conversion set is available directly from Sprue Brothers Models.


Here's a product article for the 1/32 Su-27 Missile Pylons from Zactomodels.  These resin Su-27 Missile Pylons correct the shape of the kit missile pylons to provide you with a higher level of accuracy and detail on your next big Su-27.


Here's a product article for the 1/72 F6F Hellcat Headrest from QuickBoost.  This latest release gives you 3 different types of headrests for the F6F Hellcat from Eduard. 


Here's a product article for the 1/48 T-28 Trojan Landing Gear from Scale Aircraft Conversions.  These are designed for the Monogram kit.

Saturday,   Jan 28  2012

  Space Shuttle Challenger Accident 1986  


Friday,   Jan 27  2012

  Russia - End of Leningrad blockade  (1944) 

ARC Auto was updated today - - - - - - ARC Armor was updated today - drop by and check them out.....plenty of great models to see.

Dragan Cvetic starts today with his stunningly attractive 1/72 Aircast SOKO NJ-21 Jastreb.  Dragan added scratchbuilt details such as a scratchbuilt canopy and cockpit details and then finished it off with a great looking camo scheme and decals from Balkan Models.  I really do like the look of this one.

Olaf Sprenger joins us today with his 3rd article on ARC.  This is Olaf's 1/48 Revell IAF Bell AH-1F Cobra finished off with great noseart for an Israeli Cobra.  Olaf got everything looking just right and the finished model looks fantastic from any angle.

Alex Cimenti is here with 2 gorgeous looking 1/72 Italeri Lockheed F-104G Duo.  Alex chose to build his baremetal Starfighters in the markings for the Norwegian Air Force jet and Belgian Air Force.  Alex did some added detailing and then finished both of them off with great looking markings and flawless bare metal finishes. 

Here's a product article for the 1/32 F-16C Blue Fox Bandits decal sheet from  Twobobs Aviation GraphicsThis sheet features three Lizard and Flanker scheme jets from the 18th AGRS at Eielson AFB.  These markings represent the final configuration schemes of these jets.

11th AF Lizard scheme along with the 354th OG Flanker scheme are part of this sheet.  A "line" lizard jet is also represented on this decal sheet.

The 1/32 &1/72 Braille Scale Sale! is still on but items are selling out so get 'em while they are only $5.  Includes most 1/72 and 1/32 sheets...only $5.  Supplies are going fast.


Here's a product article for the 1/32 Israel AF F-16C Block 40 Conversion Set from IsraCast.

This resin conversion set is available directly from Sprue Brothers Models


Here's a product article for the 1/18 VF-84 F-14A "Jolly Rogers" Desert storm Nose Art decal sheet from Fightertown Decals.  This new decal sheet is for guys that believe in "Go big or go home".  This sheet is for 1 Tomcat with VF-84 F-14A "Jolly Rogers" during Desert Storm, but the best part of this decal sheet is the sexy noseart which you can see in all its glory. 


Here's a product article for the 1/32 EF 2000A Typhoon wheel bay set from Aires.  This highly detailed wheel bays are designed for the Revell kit.


Here's a product article for the 1/72 Hal Ajet T.2 resin model kit from Pro ResinThis kit includes markings for one of the 2 seat trainer prototypes.


Thursday,  Jan 26  2012

  Australia Day 

  India Republic Day 

ARC Armor was updated today - for the Australian and Indian National Days......plenty of great models to see.

Hiroyuki is here to honour the Indian Republic Day with a beautiful looking 1/72 Zvezda Su-30 MKI.  Hiroyuki  added parts from the Tamiya Su-27 kit as well as Eduard photo etch and finished it all off with decals from Begemotdecals.  Very nicely done Hiroyuki.

Aaron has done a gorgeous job building and finishing his  1/48 Highplanes CAC CA-27 Avon Sabre.  This is a 76Sqn Sabre wearing a great looking Panther scheme and the a couple of air-to-air missiles.  The finish and the markings all come together to make this a great looking Aussie Sabre....the perfect jet for the Australia Day update here on ARC.. 

Aaron joins us from Australia on this special day with his sharp looking 1/48 Hobbyboss F-111C Pig RAAF.   Aaron went with markings for a 6 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force F-111 in one of the better paint schemes worn by this jet.  I love the in-flight pose...well done Aaron.

Aaron is here with his attractive looking 1/48 Hobbycraft Canada Hawker Sea Fury FB.11 RAN.  Aaron gave it a full weapons load and posed it as an in-flight bird from the Royal Australian Navy on the HMAS Sydney.

Aaron joins us with his fully loaded and perfect looking 1/48 Douglas A-4G Skyhawk RAN.  Aaron went with a camo scheme that is a treat to the eyes and then posed it as an in-flight Skyhawk.......can't beat that.  I love the way it looks.

Aaron has done a stellar job on his 1/48 Hobbyboss F/A-18A Hornet RAAF.  His Hornet has drop tanks and a weapons load along with full weathering and some great looking Aussie markings...check out the tail art.  This is an attractive looking model.

Aaron is here with a very special Australian Canberras from the Vietnam War.  This is his 1/48 Airfix GAF Canberra Mk.20 with pre and post-shading to get the perfect SEA weathered look.  Aaron tells this history of this bird and what eventually became of her.  Very nicely done Aaron.

Here's a product article for the 1/32 EF-2000 Perfect Storm Tiffies decal sheet from Twobobs Aviation GraphicsThis sheet features markings for the Trumpeter and Revell Germany kit of this very important RAF fighterOne complete set of correct stencils and enough options for three different aircraft.

The 1/32 &1/72 Braille Scale Sale! is still on but items are selling out so get 'em while they are only $5.  Includes most 1/72 and 1/32 sheets...only $5.  Supplies are going fast.


Zoltan Pocza Embraer is here with a product article for the ERJ-190-100IGW 190AR (C-FHNV) - Air Canada (ACA) / Canada print from Deployment Productions20% off of any products for every ACTIVE, registered ARC community members!


Here's a product article for the 1/48 Yak-38 Forger A Air Intake Covers from QuickBoost QuickBoost These are designed to fit the Hobby Boss kit.

Here's a product article for the 1/72 Pratt-Read LNE-1 glider model kit from Czech Master Resin - CMR ModelsThis model kit includes markings for 4 different aircraft.


Wednesday,   Jan 25  2012 
ARC Auto was updated today - - - - - - ARC Armor was updated today - drop by and check them out.....plenty of great models to see.

John Doerr is here with a trio of MiG-17's.  These are his 1/48 Hobbycraft and Smer Egyptian MiG 17s with resin cockpits and aftermarket decals.  I love the job John did on the camo schemes and if you read his article you will learn which kit is the better of the two....Hobbycraft or Smer.  Excellent work John....all 3 MiG's look fantastic. 

Carmel J Attard is with a truly exceptional model of the 1/72 Execuform T-29A/B Convair 240, C131A &600.  This was quite the involved project, but in the skilled hands of Carmel it goes along smoothly.  I enjoy the look of the finished model very much.....it is simply beautiful from every angle. 

Robert Martino reworked the 1/48 Monogram F-86 Sabre Jet to created his model of a Sabre with the RCAF 1959 Golden Hawks Aerobatic Team.  Robert did some excellent work and shows just how nice these Monogram kits are.  I love the look of Robert's Sabre.

Just released!!!

Here's a product article for the 1/32 F-15C Eifel Eagles decal sheet from Twobobs Aviation Graphics.  This sheet features F-15C Eagles from the 36th TWF of historic Bitburg AB in Germany. Multiple time frames are captured on this sheet with a great selection of squadron and wing commanders aircraft as well as MiG killer and special scheme aircraft. Three different stencil styles are included.

Only 250 sheets were be printed.


Here's a product article for the 1/48 Bf 110 C/ D main undercarriage wheels from Eduard.  

These resin wheels are available directly from Sprue Bros.


Here's a product article for the 1/32 AIM-9DGH Sidewinder Missiles from Zactomodels.

Here's a product article for the 1/72 F6F Hellcat Cooling Gills from QuickBoost These are designed for the Dragon kit.

Tuesday,    Jan 24   2012 

Hot Babe of the Week!  this week  from Twobobs is courtesy of Keith Svendsen. Keith was a Flight Test Engineer out at Edwards AFB back in the day and this is but a small snipet of the mountain of F-5 pics that he has shared with us over here at Twobobs. So many schemes out there from Luke, Edwards and Nellis that have never been done. Thanks Keith!  Enjoy!      Bob


Yoav Efrati joins us with a very rare and interesting aircraft today.  This is his 1/48 Eduard MiG-21MF and what makes this interesting is it is a Egyptian MiG-21 flown by a Russian pilot against Israel. Yoav tells this fascinating story from 1970 and then you get to enjoy the wonderful photos of his MiG-21.....that's a pretty sweet deal.

Fabrice Godart joins us from friendly Belgium with not one but 2 models.  These are his 1/72 Academy SB2C-4 Helldiver and F4U-1 Corsair in the colours and markings from 1945.  It's great to see them Fabrice, they both look excellent.

Gavin Parnaby has extensively reworked and heavily detailed his 1/72 Italeri B-57G.  Gavin did all this with a combination of aftermarket parts and scratchbuilding.  He details all the modifications with pictures and detailed text.  Wow this is an amazing project Gavin....well done!!!

Here's a product article for the 1/32 F-4 Long nose Pitot tube set from Hobby DecalThese are finely crafted metal parts.

Here's a product article for the 1/72 Modern Soviet Russian pilot figure (standing pose) from Fairy Hobby.

Here's a product article for the Phamtom Poster from Reid Air Publications.  This poster is available in 2 different sizes.


Here's a product article for the 1/48 Yak-38 Forger A Air Scoops from QuickBoost These are designed for the Hobby Boss kit.

Monday,    Jan 23  2012

Lunar New Year - Spring Festival

This weeks Twobobs Newsletter is up.  Bob has some big beautiful images of the F-15C Digital Flanker instruction sheets.....oh man these look good!!!  Bobs also has the latest news on the much anticipated T-6 Texan II and F-5F decal sheets and F-4 Phantom Stencils is up.  Bob has some big beautiful images of the F-15C Digital Flanker instruction sheets.....oh man these look good!!!  Bobs also has the latest news on the much anticipated T-6 Texan II and F-5F decal sheets and F-4 Phantom Stencils is up.  

Serge Dompierre has done a flawless job on his 1/48 Hasegawa CF-18A.  Serge got all the details correct such as the spotlight and then finished it in the markings for Alouette 425 Squadron based at CFB Bagotville PQ (Quebec).  Serge gave it  a couple of drop tanks which is fairly standard for the CF-18A.  Great photos Serge....they look very realistic.

Suat ÖZKUL has done an exceptional job on the 1/48 Eduard BF-108 B Taifun.  Suat  gave it photo etch seatbelts and other detailing and a beautifully done weathering job and then finished it off with an early war camo scheme.

Denis COUDERT joins us from Dijon, France with his eye catching 1/48 Revell F104G Strafighter "Tiger Meet 1978".  This is an older kit and it's got opened panels and airbrakes and then give it an excellent looking paint job with a brush and the good looking Tiger stripe scheme.  Wow I can't believe this model is brush painted.....that is amazing.

Here's a product article for the 1/35 Israeli Air Force H-60 Blackhawk decal sheet from IsraDecal.

This decal sheet from Isracast is available directly from Sprue Brothers Models.


Here's a product article for the 1/72 F9F-2 Panther Undercarriage Covers from QuickBoost These are designed for the for Hobby Boss kit.

Here's a product article for the 1/48 J29 Tunnan photo etch detail set from Maestro Models.  These include pre-painted parts and is designed for the cockpit and exterior of the  J29 Tunnan. 


Here's a product article for the 1/48 Ar 234C Landing Gear from Scale Aircraft Conversions. These are designed for the Hasegawa/Revell kit.

Friday,   Jan 20  2012 
Jean-Charles GODDET has done an astounding job on his 1/72 Revell Lockheed Martin F-22A Raptor.  Jean-Charles  used a large variety of aftermarket items from Aires and Eduard and this finished off this magnificent Raptor with a perfect paint job with a slight metallic sheen and decals from Twobobs Wow this is an impressive model.

Kenan TURHAN joins us today with a vewry rare plane.  This is the triple engined 1/72 Revell Blohm & Voss BV 138.  Kenan added scratchbuilt details to the interior and then dressed up the exterior with moveable flight controls and finally pre-shaded the panel lines to get that perfect weathered look.  This is one very cool looking sea plane.

Iván Aceituno C. has been very busy making the perfect 1/48 Hobbyboss Republic F-105G THUD.  Iván added many aftermarket detail items as well as plenty of scratchbuilt details including a photo etch boarding ladder.  His finished model was then given a beautifully weathered SEA camo scheme and display on a tarmac diorama base.  

Just released!!!

Here's a product article for the 1/48 F-15C Eifel Eagles decal sheet from Twobobs Aviation Graphics.  This sheet features F-15C Eagles from the 36th TWF of historic Bitburg AB in Germany. Multiple time frames are captured on this sheet with a great selection of squadron and wing commanders aircraft as well as MiG killer and special scheme aircraft. Three different stencil styles are included.


Here's a product article for the A-10A Thunderbolt II print 103rd FW, 118th FS Flying Yankees CT 78-621 & CT 78-613 - 2007 from Deployment Productions.


Here's a product article for the 1/48 F-5E Tiger II Control Levers from QuickBoost These are designed for the AFV Club kit.

Here's a product article for the 1/48 Ar 234B Landing Gear from Scale Aircraft Conversions.  These landing gear are designed to fit the Hasegawa/Revell kit. 

Thursday,   Jan 19  2012 
No update today....we were surprised by 6" of snow (snow is rare where I live) and that closed the local schools.  Plus I went to the Dentist and had to get a surprise root canal done .....which has disrupted my work schedule.  It was one of those days.  There will be an update on all 3 ARC sites on Friday.

Wednesday,   Jan 18  2012 
ARC Auto was updated today - - - - - - ARC Armor was updated today - drop by and check them out.....plenty of great models to see.

Serge Dompierre has been persistent and turned out a sharp looking 1/48 Classic Airframe CF-5A. This model kit does have some fit issues but that didn't stop Serge from not only finishing it, but her did a darn fine job on it.  He used detail items from Belcher Bits and chose the good looking markings for the CAF Bluenose Squadron Squadron based at CFB Bagotville.

Victor De Jesus is here with his impressive looking 1/48 Monogram A-1H Skyraider.  This is an older kit, but Victor did a fantastic job on it with full weathering including gun smoke and exhaust stains.  He chose to give it a full weapons load and finished in a SEA camo scheme.......which looks excellent.  Victor built this Skyraider as a Christmas present to a retired Air Force neighbor.

Carmel J Attard joins us with some gorgeous photos of his very sleek looking 1/72 Airfix Hunter FGA9.  Carmel used a conversion set from Pavla Models to make his Hunter into the prototype.  This did require some effort and Carmel gives a full explanation in his article of all that he had to do to get this remarkable model finished.  I love the photos of his model flying over Malta......it looks beautiful there.

Just released!!!

Here's a product article for the 1/72 F-15C Eifel Eagles decal sheet from Twobobs Aviation Graphics.  This sheet features F-15C Eagles from the 36th TWF of historic Bitburg AB in Germany. Multiple time frames are captured on this sheet with a great selection of squadron and wing commanders aircraft as well as MiG killer and special scheme aircraft. Three different stencil styles are included.


Here's a product article for the 1/24 pre-painted Bf 109K-4 placards from  EduardThis set is designed for the Trumpeter kit.

This pre-painted photo etch set from Eduard is available directly from Sprue Bros


Here's a product article for the 1/32 F-100 Super Sabre Intake Correction kit from Zactomodels.

Here's a product article for the 1/72 F9F-2 Panther Wing Fences from QuickBoost These are designed for the Hobby Boss kit.

Here's a product article for the 1/72 Spitfire Mk II LR Conversion Kit from 3D-KITS.co.ukThis conversion set gives you 1 long range underwing fuel tank and marking for 2 different Spitfires.

Tuesday,    Jan 17   2012 

Hot Babe of the Week!  this week  from Twobobs is courtesy of Gabe Pincelli. These pics are from quite some time ago and were taken on the inaugural flight after this T-45 received it's CoNA paint job. Thanks a bunch Gabe!   Enjoy!      Bob


Alexandre Vidigal has done a stunning job on his 1/48 Tamiya Messerschmitt Bf109-E.  This is the E-3 version of the 109 as it appear early in the war.  Alexandre  gave his 109 subtle weathering and then built  a display base to complete the look.  It looks wonderful Alexandre.

Daniel Radford has done an outstanding job detailing and finishing his 1/48 Hobby Boss F111 D/E.  Daniel dressed up the cockpit with some resin seats and then posed the canopy in the open position to show off the cockpit detailing.  The exterior was given a beautifully done camo scheme with sexy noseart.  Very nicely done Daniel.

Yoav Efrati is here with some photos of the recent IPMS Israel 27 December 2011 Nationals.  Yoav included 41 photos to give you  a small taste of all the great model on display at this contest.

Here's a product article for the 1/72 Spitfire Dry Transfer Stencils from Hobby Decal.


Here's a product article for the Vertical Viper Poster from Reid Air Publications.  Each print is available in 11 x 16 or 16 x 25 inches. They'll be adding additional sizes and additional prints at a later date. Most of the images are pulled straight from their books, so if there is a specific image you'd like a print of, they can easily do a custom print. 


Here's a product article for the 1/72 EA-6B Prowler ICAP-2 (early) cockpit set from AiresThis is a multi-media cockpit set that includes resin and photo etch parts.


Monday,    Jan 16  2012

  Martin Luther King, Jr. Day  

I have changed the header on ARC and removed the separate frame for the top header.  This one project took years to complete and required editing every webpage on ARC.  The number of hours required for this one change are staggering.  I believe this will make ARC much easier to use as you can now see the URL for each webpage.  Plus webpages that show up in a Google search will have the header at the top of them....this was not the case before.  I hope you like the new look, I feel it was worth the effort.

This weeks Twobobs Newsletter is up.  Bob has images of the instruction sheets for the F-5F Double Trouble Bandits.  These have the "platypus" noses and the extended LEX fences.  This F-5F sheet and the T-6B Texan II sheet will be available on the Twobobs website the 24th of January.  And the Digital Flanker sheet is coming shortly after that.

Adam Gudynowski did some fantastic work on his 1/48 Academy MiG-21MF b/n 6814.  Adam added an Aires cockpit and then pre-shaded the panel lines before finishing his MiG in the Dolphin scheme and Polish Air Force markings.  I love the look of the finished model.

Lars Opland is here with a very special model today.  This is his 1/72 Khee-Kha Art Products Waco YKS-6 Ellis Air Transport, which is a bi-plane float plane.....it doesn't get much cooler than that.  Lars gives an in-depth report of the build process with in-progress pics as well as pics of the splendid finished model.  Markings are for a plane in Alaska.  Wow....I love it.

Luiz Delazari joins us from Brazil with photos from the recent 10th IPMS Curitiba Contest.  This was a well attended show and if you click on the link in this article you can see hundreds of models that were on display at this show.  No doubt about it....the folks in Brazil know how to put on a successful show.  Wonderful work everyone.

Here's a product article for the 1/48 Ultracast Early P-51 Mustang RAF Fishtail Exhausts from Ultracast.  This resin item is available directly from Sprue Brothers Models.


Here's a product article for the 1/32 U.S. Navy A-1H/J Skyraiders decal sheet from Zotz DecalsThis decal sheet features 3 different Skyraiders and all have colorful or interesting markings.

Here's a product article for the 1/48 U.S. Recognition Lights from QuickBoost.

Friday,   Jan 13  2012 
Artur Domanski has done a beautiful job on his 1/24 Airfix De Havilland Mosquito FBIV.  Artur used gun barrels from Master and finished his Mosquito in Polish 305 Sqn. markings.  This is a wonderful looking Mosquito and it's great seeing one in Polish markings.

Bruno Monti Colombani has done an exceptionally fine job on his multi-shaded bare metal 1/48 F-104N.  Bruno used the Cutting Edge upgrade set for F-104N and finished his Starfighter with Alclad II.

Benny Attar is here with 31 photos from the recent Israel IPMS annual exhibition - 2011.  There is some very skilled modelers in Israel and you will enjoy seeing the aircraft and armor models in Benny's photos.  Thanks for sharing Benny.

Ken Middleton is here with a product article for the 1/72 RF-4C No-Gun Shoguns decal sheet from Twobobs Aviation Graphics.  Enough markings for two complete jets from this recce group out of Kadena.  RAM 1985 and 1986 markings are represented on this sheet.

This sheet is currently on sale for $3.00....buy it while supplies last.

The 1/32 &1/72 Braille Scale Sale! is still on but items are selling out so get 'em while they are only $5Includes most 1/72 and 1/32 sheets...only $5Supplies are going fast.


Here's a product article for the 1/48 VFA-143 F/A-18E Pukin' Dogs of War decal sheet from Fightertown Decals.  This decal sheet includes 6 different marking schemes.


Here's a product article for the 1/72 F6F-3N/5N Hellcat Night Exhaust, Antennas from QuickBoost.  These are designed to fit the Eduard kit.


Here's a product article for the 1/72 Hawker Siddeley Buccaneer S.Mk.2A model kit from Czech Master Resin - CMR ModelsThis model kit includes markings for 7 different aircraft.


Thursday,   Jan 12  2012 
No update today...I've been putting in long hours rebuilding the product article archiving system.

Wednesday,   Jan 11  2012 
ARC Auto was updated today - - - - - - ARC Armor was updated today - drop by and check them out.....plenty of great models to see.

Alexandre Vidigal starts today with an exceptionally attractive 1/48 Tamiya Messerschmitt Bf109-E4/7 Trop wearing a partially striped desert camo.  Alexandre added Eduard photo etch and Master Model gun barrels and then finished off his 109 is a beautifully weather desert camo on a diorama base.  WOW!!!  

Carmel J Attard joins us today from sunny Malta with a rare model.  This is his flawless looking 1/72 Airmodel F8U-3 Super Crusader III.  Carmel explains the history behind this prototype that lost the competition to the F-4 Phanom II.  This is a vacuformed kit and in Carmel's skilled hands it builds into a remarkable looking model.  Look carefully at the photos and you will see his model flying over Malta. 

Vladimir Bilbija has done a beautiful job on his 1/72 Eduard profi pack L-39 Albatros.  Vladimir finished his Albatros in Iraqi Air Force markings and put it on a diorama base that is partly covered in original sand from the Sahara.  Wonderful work Vladimir.

Here's a product article for the 1/72 1/48 1/32 Gridiron Viper F-16C decal sheet from Twobobs Aviation Graphics.  Here's a decal sheet that is a first as far as I can recall.  The Super Bowl is without a doubt one of the biggest sporting events in the US.  Super Bowl XLI on Feb 4 2007 took place at the Miami Dolphins Stadium in Miami, Florida between the Chicago Bears and the Indianapolis Colts. 

This sheet is currently on sale for $3.00....buy it while supplies last.

The 1/32 &1/72 Braille Scale Sale! is still on but items are selling out so get 'em while they are only $5Includes most 1/72 and 1/32 sheets...only $5Supplies are going fast.


Here's a product article for the 1/24 Pre-paint photo etch Bf109G-6 Placards from Eduard.

This pre-painted photo etch set from Eduard is available directly from Sprue Bros


Here's a new image for the upcoming 1/32 Skyraider decal sheet from Zotz Decals.


Here's a product article for the 1/32 Su-27 Early Tail Stinger from Zactomodels.


Here's a product article for the 1/48 Fw Ta 152C-0 Exhausts from QuickBoost.

These resin exhausts are designed for the Hobby Boss kit.


Here's a product article for the 1/48 F-14 Tomcat Landing Gear from Scale Aircraft ConversionsThese landing gear are designed to fit the Hasegawa kit.


Tuesday,    Jan 10  2012

 Russia - Soviet counteroffensive under Stalingrad. The beginning of the end (1943) 

Hot Babe of the Week!  this week  from Twobobs is courtesy of Larry Parker. I've been sitting on these pics for a little while now but since the decal sheet artwork is almost complete, I'll put it out there for you guys to use as references. Enjoy!      Bob


Ronald Beelen got everything looking flawless on his 1/48 Eduard MiG 21 SMT. This is the Eduard "profipack" kit so Ronald was able to added extra detail to his 'Fishbed' before giving a very realistic multi-shaded bare metal finish complete with very careful weathering.  I really like how this MiG 21 turned out.

David Rapasi is here with a very special 1/48 Tamiya Corsair Mark I.  This is the last Birdcage Corsair built by Vought for the British and Dave gave it one of his amazing faded camo jobs.  Check out the photos and enjoy....WOW!!!

Vladimir Bilbija joins us from Serbia with photos  from the recent  IV. New Year's Cup that was held in an aircraft Museum.  I can't think of a better place to hold a model show than a museum.  It looks like it was quite the enjoyable show Vladimir.  Thanks for sharing the photos with everyone.

Here's a product article for the 1/48 P-51 Dry Transfer Stencils from Hobby Decal.

Here's a product article for the The Early Viper Guide: The F-16A/B Exposed from Reid Air Publications.


Here's a product article for the 1/72 F9F-2 Panther Exhaust Nozzle from QuickBoost This exhaust nozzle is designed to fit the Hobby Boss kit.


Monday,   Jan 9  2012 
ARC Auto was updated today - - - - - - ARC Armor was updated today - drop by and check them out.....plenty of great models to see.

Today is the final installment for Silly Week 2012.  We haven't seen anything from Alvis 3.1 this year and he is making up for that big time today.  I would like to extend my thanks for everyone that joined in with their wacky models for Silly Week this year...I know this helps us all start the New Year off on the right foot.  Thanks to everyone for making Silly Week such a success.

This weeks Twobobs Newsletter is up.  Bob has some images of the Digital Flanker instruction sheets....wow this one if going to sell out fast!!!  Bob also has a sneak peek of three of the six jets that are on their forthcoming F-5F "Double Trouble Bandits" sheet.  Welcome to the New Year Bob!!!

Alvis 3.1 starts off with his diorama of the 1/48 Iranian Stealth Drone: Captured!  This is very Top Secret and you heard about it first....here on ARC.  This Iranian Drone was actually shot down over area 51.....Alvis 3.1 has the full story in his article complete with photos of the offending aircraft.  

Kees Kuyper is here to make you grin with his Bonneville Spaceshuttle Record Car.  Haven't you ever wondered what happened to the Space Shuttles after they were retired.......now you know!!!

Alvis 3.1 is here with an amusing story of an airliner that flew out of Moncton NB.  This is his Canada1/144 Sukhoi 100 Superjet: Down East International finished off with custom markings.  Read Alvis 3.1's story for all the details. 

Alvis 3.1 joins us with a classic.  This is his Tales from Area 52* 1/72 USN C-13S White Swan with is a USN Space shuttle made from the B-1 bomber and space shuttle wings.  But read his article for the whole humourous story behind this graceful looking space shuttle.  Nicely done Alvis 3.1....keep on doing what you're doing.

Here's a product article for the 1/32 F-15A F-15C Improved Baz Conversion Set from IsraCast

This conversion set is available directly from Sprue Bros


Here's a product article for the 1/48 F7F-3N Tigercat Gun Barrels from QuickBoost.  These are designed to it the Italeri kit.


Here's a product article for the 1/72 CF-104 Starfighter decal sheet from WINTERVALLEYThis decal sheet features natural metal RCAF CF-104's stationed in Germany and Canada and also comes in 1/48 and 1/32.


Saturday,   Jan 7  2012 
Larry "The Artilleryman" Schmidt has a fun build when he kit bashed his 1/72 Airfix Sea Wimpy using floats from the Airfix Ju.52/3m.  Larry explains the build in more detail and once I saw the finished model I couldn't help noticing how this aircraft looked like a very viable design.  Thanks for sending it in Larry.......it's always a treat for me when I see any plane on floats. 

Dave Bailey, aka "The Rat" joins us on the last day of Silly Week with his 1/72 Hawk Supermarine Swift in What-if markings for an aircraft in the Suez Crisis of 1956.  Dave's what-if story seems quite plausible.......the Suez stripes make it quite the good looking jet .  Thanks for helping make Silly week such a success this year Dave.

Friday,   Jan 6  2012 
ARC Auto was updated today - - - - - - ARC Armor was updated today - drop by and check them out.....plenty of great models to see.

Hal Elsberry has been very busy kit bashing his 1/48 Revell A-24D Wart Hind.  This is a kitbash of the A-10 Warthog and the Mi-24 Hind attack helicopter.  The finished model looks quite convincing......which is quite surprising and a true testament to Hal's kit bashing skills.

Bill Arnold is here to make you grin with his very light hearted Hawk Drag Hag.  Bill built his Drag Hag mostly out of the box with a slight mod.  This is one very funny kit and I'm sure Bill had fun building it.  Well done Bill...I love it.

KH Lee is here with his very funny story of the 1/72 Tigris HSS – World’s most expensive attack helicopter.  It's a great looking model of this very expensive helicopter and KH explains the whole story in his article.

Here's a product article for the 1/72 JAS-39 Press to Test Gripens decal sheet from Twobobs Aviation Graphics.  This sheet includes enough markings to build four complete Gripens.  These are all demo or test jets and the most colorful is the blue tailed test jet from the Empire Test Pilot School from the UK.

The 1/32 &1/72 Braille Scale Sale! is still on but items are selling out so get 'em while they are only $5Includes most 1/72 and 1/32 sheets...only $5Supplies are going fast.


Here's a product article for the 1/48 VAW-115 E-2C Hawkeyes "Liberty Bells" decal sheet from Fightertown Decals.  This decal sheet includes markings for 6 different 1/48 E-2C Hawkeyes with VAW-115.


Here's a product article for the 1/48 F-16C Fighting Falcon Block 50/52 cockpit set from Aires.  This is a multi-media cockpit set that includes resin and photo etch parts and is designed for the Kinetic kit.


Here's a product article for the 1/72 Supermarine Spitfire LF Mk.XVIE model kit from Czech Master Resin - CMR ModelsThis multi-media kit includes markings for 6 different aircraft.


Here's a product article for the 1/72 Mk II Spitfires conversion set from 3D-KITS.co.uk.  This conversion set works with the Tamiya and Airfix Spitfire kits and includes markings for 4 aircraft.


Thursday,  Jan 5  2012 
Dave Bailey, aka "The Rat" is here to mark all the Star Trek fans grin.  This is his AMT Galileo 7 Shuttlecraft sporting the markings for Pan Am.....this one made me grin when I saw it.  Dave of course has the background story on his Pan Am Shuttlecraft. 

Andrew Williams is here with something that seems so obvious.....but I've never seen it before....nor did I ever think of this idea.  This is his 1/35 Tamiya Pink Panther......and it's quite nicely done as well.  Peter Sellers is up in Heaven with a big grin on his face today. 

KH Lee has done some impressive scratchbuilding to create this 1/72 Valkyrie Fighter.  This is Richthofen’s Valkyrie Fighter from the animated steam punk film “War of the Worlds: Goliath” which is yet to be released, but looks like it will be an interesting movie.

Mario“Hiurawa” Binsar aka Lifeline is here with his 1/48 “Spooks” Hughes 500.  This particular chopper supposedly belongs to the “Seaspray” unit and Mario tells the story of this secret real life unit.  The cool part about this model is how well it turned out....then ponder the fact Mario built it over a day or 2 as far as a quickie group build.

Here's a product article for the 1/48 T-6B Texan II decal sheet from Twobobs Aviation GraphicsThis sheet features 3 colorful T-6B Texan II's including 2 with the US Navy and 1 with the USMC.  This decal sheet is for the new 1/48 T-6B Texan II model kit from IBEX Plastic Models. IBEX Plastic Models.

Zoltan Pocza is here with a product article for the new Embraer E-190AR (OH-LKI) - Finnair / Finnland print from Deployment Productions.  

20% off of any products for every ACTIVE, registered ARC community members!


Here's a product article for the 1/48 T-6 Texan II / CT-156 Harvard II decal sheet from Caracal Models.  This new decal sheet from Caracal Models includes markings for 4 aircraft in 4 different paint schemes from 4 different countries (Canada, Greece Iraq, and Morocco).

This sheet is sold out, but it is possible to buy partial sheets if you are after markings for a particular aircraft. 


Here's a product article for the 1/48 T-6A Texan II model kit from IBEX Plastic ModelsThis is a multi-media injection molded model kit that includes markings for USAF and Israeli Air Force aircraft...including the Israeli Air Force Aerobatic Team.

Here's a product article for the 1/48 Navy Wheel Chocks NWC-4/5 from Wheelliant.  This wheel chock set features a set of 4 resin Navy Wheel Chocks NWC-4/5 Wheel Chock with Nylon Rope.  These are the late production style with polyurethane blocks with fixed bar.

Wednesday,   Jan 4  2012

  Union of Myanmar Independence Day 

ARC Auto was updated today - - - - - - ARC Armor was updated today - drop by and check them out.....plenty of great models to see.

Hal Elsberry has been very busy creating his Weird Ohs Goose figure and diorama.  This is one of the characters from the Mad Max movie and I must say Hal really went to town creating his one.  Spend some time and have a long close look at the photos.....this is quite the amazing model. 

Dave Bailey, aka "The Rat" is here with a very colourful 1/72 Airfix Folland Gnat target drone.  Dave explains the whole story how the Gnat ended up as a target drone and if you look closely you will see a sidewinder just about to explode.  I loved seeing it Dave...you're on a  roll this year.

Konley Kelley is here to mark this year being the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic.  This is his 1/350 Minicraft RMS Titanic and 1/1 daughter duo.  Konley is a master at digital editing and posed his daughter on the bow of the mighty ocean liner.  What a great idea.....I love it. 

Kees Kuyper has made me laugh with his very messed up International Financial Crisis Plane.  Wow....without  a doubt this has the be the most messed up aircraft I have ever seen and it odes resemble the financial crisis that continues to plague Europe.  Thanks for the laugh Kees...Happy New Year.

Here's a product article for the 1/72 F/A-18F Rockin' Rhinos #2 VFA-11/VFA-106 decal sheet from Twobobs Aviation Graphics.  Two aircraft are represented in their new Super Hornet markings.  Enough marking options for two complete jets.

This sheet is currently on sale for $3.00....buy it while supplies last.


Here's a product article for the 1/32 AIMS Resin Ju88A-0 Conversion Set from AIMS.  

This conversion set is designed for the Revell kit and is available directly from Sprue Bros Models. Sprue Bros Models.


Here's a new image for the upcoming 1/32 Skyraider decal sheet from Zotz Decals.

Here's a product article for the 1/32 Su-27 Wingtip Pylons from ZactomodelsZactomodels also has a selection of highly detailed 1/32 missiles.

Here's a product article for the 1/48 MiG-21 PFM GP-9 Cannon Pod from QuickBoost This cannon pod is designed for the Academy kit.


Tuesday,    Jan 3   2012 

Hot Babe of the Week!  this week  from Twobobs is courtesy of Chris "Spliff" Russell, F-15E WSO extraordinaire. Spliff sent me these pics eons ago but I thought they'd make a good Hot Babe for all of you in the middle of a dark Eagle build.    Bob


Bill Arnold is here with something amusing I've never seen before.  This is his Hawk Model's Bopped Out Steel Pluckers which is a re-issue of an old Hawk kit.  Bill had a good time building it and did a first class job on it......the guy on the right reminds me of one of the Beatles.  Pretty funny stuff Bill....and a treat to see.....thanks!!!

Dave Bailey, aka "The Rat" is here with a first on ARC.  This is the little known Wingnut, by Wingnut, scale unknown.  Dave was very careful and managed to accurately replicate the complicated paint scheme of the second one of these that was tested.  His article thankfully explains the whole story of this secret weapon.  VERY funny  stuff Dave.

Hal Elsberry is here with one of the coolest solutions to a smashed model.  This is his 1/48 P-61 Caricature.  Hal was very creative and got his P-61 looking like a perfect P-61 Caricature....wow this looks great.  I love it Hal.

Here's a product article for the 1/48 F-18E/F Super Hornet VFA-11 & VFA-136 decal sheet from SB Decals.  This decal sheet features 3 different F-18E and F's from VFA-11 Red Rippers & VFA-136 Knighthawks. 

You can buy this decal sheet and thousands of other items directly from the Sprue Brothers site They are famous for their prompt service.

This sheet is on sale for $8.49....marked down from $14.50 


Here's a product article for the 1/72 F-16 Pitot Tube & AOA Probe set Type 1 from Hobby DecalThese are designed for the Hasegawa kit.

Here's a product article for the The Modern Phantom Guide: The F-4 Phantom Exposed book from Reid Air Publications.  This book includes over 1,000 (1069 to be exact) color images spread over 228 pages illustrate the definitive resource material on the McDonnell-Douglas F-4 Phantom.  

Here's a product article for the 1/72 F9F-2 Panther Pitot Tube, Antennas from QuickBoost.  These are designed for the Hobby Boss kit.

Monday,    Jan 2  2012
ARC Auto was updated today - - - - - - ARC Armor was updated today - drop by and check them out.....plenty of great models to see.

This weeks Twobobs Newsletter is up.  Bob has images of the upcoming F-15C Digital Flanker sheet...wow this sheet is going to sell out fast.  Bob has put all 3 scales on one sheet.  The Eifel Eagle sheets are selling fast....so buy yours while you can.  Bob also has New Years Greetings for all of you.

Hal Elsberry gets things fired up today with one of the more outrageous models I've seen in quite a while.  This is his Drag Hag model that I followed with much interest during the build process on the ARC forums.  Hal reworked almost every area of the figures and added exceptional detail......the blood shot eyes of the hag as well as the baby are beautifully done.  This is one very cool looking diorama of exceptional build quality. 

Amen has been very skilled and creative with this 1/48 Revell F-117A Nighthawk.  The cockpit has lights added as well as running lights to the fuselage.  But it is the camo pattern that steals the show....what a cool looking camo pattern.  The markings are for a Greek What-if Nighthawk and Amen even created modified Squadron markings.  This has got to be one of the coolest looking F-117s ever seen....I love the way it looks.

Dave Bailey, aka "The Rat" has been very creative with his tail dragger 1/144 Academy DC-4.  Dave include the full history of this odd aircraft which starts in the dark days of WW2.....it's an amusing read and surprisingly believable.  Well done Dave......very amusing and convincing.

Here's a product article for the 1/32 F-16 Fighting Falcon Control Levers from QuickBoost.

Here's a product article for the 1/32 CF-104 Starfighter decal sheet from WINTERVALLEY This decal sheet features natural metal RCAF CF-104's stationed in Germany and Canada and also comes in 1/48 and 1/72.

Here's a product article for the 1/48 G.91 Landing Gear from Scale Aircraft Conversions.  These landing gear are designed for the Italeri/ESCI kit.

Sunday,   Jan 1  2012

 Cuba  -  Anniversary of the Revolution 

 Haiti Independence Day 

 Sudan  Independence Day 

Happy New Year everyone!!!      I hope everyone has a Fantastic 2012!!!

Silly Week 2012 begins today!!!  There is still room for more articles.....so don't be shy.

Dave Bailey, aka The Rat is a regular during silly week and he starts this year off with a very creative 1/72 Hobbyfix CR-100.  This is the top secret Canadian Spy plane that was a combination of the CF-100 and the U2.  Dave has a very amusing article to go with his model.  Canadians will love the name of this jet......read Dave's article to learn the name.....the 1972 Hockey series is also part of the story.  Too funny Dave!!!  Thanks for the giggles.

Terry Davis is starting his New Year with some Bungee Jumping.  This is his highly modified Surfer Dude figure turned into Bungee Dude.  Terry gave him a  sunburn, chest and armpit hair and much more.  This is one very cool figure diorama and it did make me grin when I saw it.  Way to go Terry!!!

Kees Kuyper is here with his LISS - Limited International Space Station.  This is the sort of space station that gets built after various budget cuts due to economic reasons.  Kees includes a story with his model.......which includes a Space Shuttle booster rocket as part of the LISS.  Very Creative Kees.....welcome to 2012.