Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat - Learning Curves and Carrier Decks

This Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat represents a United States Navy carrier-based fighter assigned to the USS Ranger during World War II. The model is the older Tamiya kit built in 1/48 scale, consistent with all of my aircraft builds.

The F4F Wildcat was the primary U.S. Navy fighter during the early years of the war, entering service in 1940. Although it was outperformed in speed and maneuverability by aircraft such as the Mitsubishi A6M Zero, the Wildcat proved to be a rugged and dependable fighter. Its ability to absorb battle damage, combined with effective armament and disciplined tactics like the Thach Weave, allowed U.S. Navy and Marine pilots to remain competitive during critical early battles including Coral Sea, Midway, and Guadalcanal. The Wildcat helped hold the line until more advanced fighters such as the F6F Hellcat and F4U Corsair entered widespread service.

From a modeling standpoint, this project served as a personal learning platform rather than a showcase piece. It was my first serious attempt at building an aircraft model in over forty years, following my earlier Stuka build. The Wildcat became a deliberate testbed for multilayer paint chipping and weathering techniques, making it something of a guinea pig for experimenting with new methods and materials.

Considerable time was spent debating whether to reduce the level of weathering, but in the end I chose to leave it as completed. The finish reflects both the harsh realities of early-war carrier operations and the learning process itself - a snapshot of technique development rather than a polished endpoint.

While not intended as a definitive or competition-focused build, this Wildcat marks an important step in returning to aircraft modeling and rebuilding skills that had been dormant for decades. It stands as a reference point for growth, experimentation, and progress in subsequent aircraft projects.

Royal Air Force MQ-9 Reaper -Persistence at Altitude

This build represents a United States–manufactured MQ-9 Reaper operated in Royal Air Force service. The model was finished primarily with acrylics, using multiple very light airbrushed layers to introduce subtle tonal variation and simulate sun fading from extended operations at altitude rather than heavy operational wear.

The MQ-9 Reaper evolved from earlier unmanned systems into a true long-endurance, multi-role platform, capable of intelligence gathering, surveillance, and precision strike missions. In RAF service, the Reaper has played a significant role in modern expeditionary operations, emphasizing persistence, sensor capability, and stand-off engagement rather than traditional air combat.

From a modeling perspective, this build focused on refinement and correction as much as assembly. Resin was used for the laser-guided bomb optics, while the forward sensor turret lens was created by cutting and stripping a DVD disc of its multi-hued layers and inserting it into the optics housing to achieve a realistic glass effect. “Remove Before Flight” tags were added using fine scale wiring for attachment points.

One notable correction involved the lower rudder assembly, where the kit omitted the bottom delineation lines entirely. This error appears frequently in other builds of this kit, but was corrected here by scribing the missing lines and enhancing them with Tamiya black panel liner to create proper shadow depth and definition.

The kit itself, produced by Kinetic, proved challenging. Instructions were vague and inconsistent, and many of the decals were subpar. As a result, several upper surface markings were airbrushed instead of using the kit-supplied decals to maintain consistency and scale fidelity.

Overall, this project emphasized problem-solving, subtle surface treatment, and attention to modern aircraft details rather than dramatic weathering. The finished model reflects the clean, utilitarian appearance typical of operational MQ-9 Reapers while highlighting the technical nuances that define contemporary unmanned aircraft.

Bayraktar TB2 - A Modern Naval UAV in Ukrainian Service

This build represents the Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicle as operated by the Ukrainian Navy. The model was built in 1/48 scale from the Clear Prop kit and finished in acrylics, with an intentionally restrained finish to reflect the relatively clean appearance typical of operational UAVs rather than heavy service wear.

The Bayraktar TB2 is a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned combat aerial vehicle developed and produced by Baykar in Türkiye. Since entering service, it has been adopted by multiple countries and has gained particular prominence through its extensive operational use during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In Ukrainian service, the TB2 has been employed in reconnaissance, target acquisition, and precision strike roles, demonstrating the growing importance of unmanned systems in modern naval and joint operations.

Compact in size but highly capable, the TB2 exemplifies a shift away from traditional crewed aircraft toward persistent, networked platforms able to operate with reduced risk to personnel. Its success has made it one of the most recognizable UAVs of the current era.

From a modeling standpoint, the focus of this build was on clean lines, correct proportions, and a subtle surface finish rather than aggressive weathering. The result is a scale representation that reflects both the technical simplicity and operational effectiveness that define the TB2 in real-world service.

Type 212 Submarine - Modern German Naval Power

This model represents the German Navy’s Type 212 submarine, built in 1/350 scale and finished using acrylics with oils applied for subtle weathering. As with all of my submarine builds, the model is mounted on a standardized, hand-cut hardwood base painted to resemble a miniature slipway for consistent display.

The display base includes three reference elements: the national flag of origin, a 1/350 scale human figure for size comparison positioned just above and to the right of the flag, and a QR code that can be scanned with a cellphone camera (see the side-view photo) to access detailed information about the submarine class.

The Type 212 is a post–Cold War design and was the first operational submarine class to employ air-independent propulsion (AIP) using hydrogen fuel cells. This technology allows the submarine to operate submerged for extended periods without snorkeling, significantly reducing acoustic and infrared signatures. Designed primarily for operations in the shallow and confined waters of the Baltic and North Seas, the Type 212 emphasizes stealth, endurance, and advanced sensor integration over sheer size or speed.

From a modeling standpoint, the clean hull form and minimal external clutter characteristic of modern submarines were preserved, with weathering kept restrained to reflect a well-maintained contemporary naval vessel rather than a heavily worn platform. The goal was accuracy, proportion, and presentation rather than exaggerated surface effects.

  

 

PLA Navy Type 035 “Ming” Class Submarine - Post-Cold War Diesel-Electric Design (1/350)

This model represents the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy Type 035 “Ming” class submarine, built in 1/350 scale and finished using acrylics with oils applied for restrained weathering. As with all of my submarine builds, the model is mounted on a standardized, hand-cut hardwood base painted to resemble a miniature slipway for consistent presentation across the collection.

The display base includes three reference elements: the national flag of origin, a 1/350 scale human figure positioned just above and to the right of the flag for size comparison, and a QR code that can be scanned with a cellphone camera (see the side-view photo) to access additional background information on the submarine class.

The Type 035 Ming class was a Chinese development derived from the earlier Soviet Romeo-class design and represents a transitional step in China’s submarine evolution during the late Cold War and post–Cold War period. Although based on older Soviet technology, the Ming class incorporated incremental improvements in propulsion, sensors, and hull refinement over time. These submarines formed the backbone of China’s conventional submarine force for decades before being gradually replaced by more modern designs.

Operationally, the Ming class emphasized coastal defense, regional patrols, and training roles rather than extended blue-water missions. While lacking the stealth and endurance of later air-independent propulsion submarines, the class played an important role in bridging the technological gap between early imported designs and China’s indigenous modern submarine programs.

From a modeling standpoint, weathering was done in a way to depict a used and weary Chinese sub which has been obscured by time and history.

USS Miami (SSN-755) - Los Angeles-Class Fast Attack Submarine, Post-Cold War Era (1/350)

This model represents the United States Navy Los Angeles–class fast attack submarine USS Miami (SSN-755 USS Virginia (SSN-774) is the lead boat of the Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarines and represents the United States Navy’s post–Cold War approach to undersea warfare. Designed to replace aging Los Angeles–class submarines, the Virginia class emphasizes stealth, versatility, and advanced sensor integration rather than raw speed alone. 

Unlike earlier Cold War designs optimized primarily for deep-ocean submarine hunting, the Virginia class was developed to operate effectively in both open-ocean and littoral environments. These submarines are capable of intelligence gathering, special operations support, land-attack missions, and traditional anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, reflecting the broader mission set of modern naval operations.

This model is presented in 1/350 scale and was finished using acrylics with oils applied for subtle weathering. As with all of my submarine builds, it is mounted on a standardized hand-cut hardwood base painted to represent a simple slipway. Each base includes the national flag of origin, a 1/350 scale human figure for immediate size comparison, and a QR code that links to detailed historical and technical information about the submarine depicted.

This build was intended to capture the clean lines and understated presence of the Virginia class, emphasizing function over spectacle and reflecting the quiet, persistent role these submarines play in modern naval strategy.

USS Miami was part of the prolific Los Angeles–class, a class that formed the backbone of the U.S. Navy’s attack submarine force from the late Cold War through the early post–Cold War period. Designed for speed, stealth, and versatility, these submarines were optimized for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface operations, intelligence gathering, and land-attack missions using cruise missiles. Their combination of nuclear propulsion, advanced sonar systems, and high sustained speed made them dominant undersea platforms for decades.

Commissioned in 1990, USS Miami served during a transitional era in which the U.S. Navy shifted from Cold War deterrence toward regional conflict response, surveillance, and power projection. The Los Angeles–class proved highly adaptable to this changing mission set, remaining operationally relevant well beyond their original design expectations.

Weathering on this model was intentionally kept restrained, reflecting a maintained fleet submarine rather than a heavily worn hull. The emphasis was placed on clean lines, correct proportions, and an accurate silhouette, allowing the form of the Los Angeles–class design to speak for itself without excessive visual effects.

 

Type 039 Song-Class Diesel-Electric Submarine - People’s Liberation Army Navy, Post-Cold War Era (1/350)

This model represents the Chinese Type 039 Song-class diesel-electric submarine, built in 1/350 scale and finished using acrylics with oils applied for restrained, realistic weathering. As with all of my submarine builds, the model is mounted on a standardized, hand-cut hardwood base painted to resemble a miniature slipway, ensuring consistent presentation across the collection.

The display base incorporates three reference elements: the national flag of origin, a 1/350 scale human figure positioned just above and to the right of the flag for size comparison, and a QR code that can be scanned with a cellphone camera (see the side-view photo) to access additional historical and technical information on the submarine.

The Type 039 Song-class marked a significant step forward for the People’s Liberation Army Navy as China transitioned from older Soviet-derived designs toward more indigenous submarine development. Introduced in the mid-1990s, the Song-class incorporated improved hydrodynamics, reduced acoustic signature, and more modern combat systems compared to earlier Chinese diesel-electric submarines. While still conventionally powered, these boats represented an important bridge between legacy designs and later, more advanced classes such as the Yuan-class.

Designed primarily for coastal defense, sea denial, and regional operations, the Song-class enhanced China’s undersea warfare capabilities during the post-Cold War period, particularly within the Western Pacific and surrounding littoral regions. Their introduction reflected China’s broader naval modernization efforts as it expanded its focus on asymmetric and area-denial strategies.

 

Astute Class Nuclear Attack Submarine HMS Astute - Royal Navy, Post-Cold War Era (1/350)

This model represents HMS Astute, lead boat of the Royal Navy’s Astute-class nuclear-powered attack submarines, built in 1/350 scale and finished using acrylics with oils applied for subtle, realistic weathering. As with all of my submarine builds, the model is displayed on a standardized, hand-cut hardwood base painted to resemble a miniature slipway, ensuring uniform presentation throughout the collection.

The display base incorporates three reference elements: the national flag of origin, a 1/350 scale human figure positioned just above and to the right of the flag for size comparison, and a QR code that can be scanned with a cellphone camera (see the side-view photo) to access additional historical and technical information about the submarine.

The Astute-class represents the most advanced attack submarines ever operated by the Royal Navy. Designed to replace the Trafalgar-class, these boats feature a fully nuclear-powered propulsion system that eliminates the need for refueling over the submarine’s service life, significantly increasing operational endurance and flexibility. HMS Astute was commissioned in 2010 and marked a major leap forward in British undersea warfare capability.

Equipped with advanced sonar systems, modern combat management architecture, and the ability to deploy both Spearfish heavyweight torpedoes and Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles, the Astute-class is optimized for intelligence gathering, anti-submarine warfare, surface strike, and support of special forces operations. Extreme emphasis was placed on acoustic stealth, making these submarines among the quietest in the world.

Weathering on this model was deliberately restrained to reflect a modern, well-maintained frontline submarine rather than a heavily worn hull. The focus was placed on capturing the clean geometry, sail profile, and overall proportions characteristic of contemporary nuclear attack submarines, allowing the design sophistication of the Astute-class to remain the visual focal point.

 

USS Connecticut (SSN-22) - Seawolf-Class: The Quietest Hunter

This model represents USS Connecticut (SSN-22), a Seawolf-class nuclear-powered attack submarine of the United States Navy, built in 1/350 scale and finished using acrylics with oils applied for restrained, realistic weathering. As with all of my submarine builds, the model is displayed on a standardized, hand-cut hardwood base painted to resemble a miniature slipway, providing consistent presentation across the collection.

The display base incorporates three reference elements: the national flag of origin, a 1/350 scale human figure positioned just above and to the right of the flag for size comparison, and a QR code that can be scanned with a cellphone camera (see the side-view photo) to access additional historical and technical information about the submarine.

The Seawolf class was conceived during the final years of the Cold War as the ultimate U.S. Navy attack submarine, designed specifically to counter the most advanced Soviet submarines of the era. Emphasis was placed on extreme acoustic stealth, very high sustained speed, deep-diving capability, and heavy weapons load, resulting in one of the most capable submarines ever constructed.

USS Connecticut, commissioned in 1998, is one of only three Seawolf-class submarines built, as the collapse of the Soviet Union led to the program’s early termination due to cost and shifting strategic priorities. Despite the limited production run, the Seawolf class set new benchmarks in quieting technology, sonar performance, and undersea survivability, directly influencing the design of subsequent U.S. attack submarines, including the Virginia class.

Capable of carrying a large payload of torpedoes and cruise missiles, the Seawolf class features eight torpedo tubes and advanced combat systems optimized for anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and special operations support. The class remains among the fastest and quietest nuclear attack submarines ever fielded.

Weathering on this model was intentionally kept subtle to reflect the appearance of a modern, well-maintained frontline submarine rather than a heavily worn hull. The focus was placed on capturing the clean lines, sail geometry, and overall proportions that define the Seawolf class, allowing its purpose-built, high-performance design to remain the dominant visual feature.

 

Le Triomphant (SSBN) - Backbone of France’s Sea-Based Nuclear Deterrent

This model represents Le Triomphant, the lead boat of France’s Triomphant-class ballistic missile submarines, built in 1/350 scale and finished using acrylics with oils applied for subtle, controlled weathering. As with all of my submarine builds, the model is mounted on a standardized, hand-cut hardwood base painted to resemble a miniature slipway, providing a consistent presentation across the submarine collection.

The display base incorporates three reference elements: the national flag of origin, a 1/350 scale human figure positioned just above and to the right of the flag for size comparison, and a QR code that can be scanned with a cellphone camera (see the side-view photo) to access additional historical and technical information about the submarine.

The Triomphant class forms the backbone of France’s sea-based nuclear deterrent and represents the culmination of decades of French submarine design focused on survivability, acoustic discretion, and strategic endurance. Designed and built by DCNS (now Naval Group), these submarines entered service beginning in the late 1990s, replacing the earlier Redoutable-class SSBNs.

Le Triomphant was commissioned in 1997 and is one of four boats in the class. Each submarine is powered by a nuclear reactor and designed for long-duration deterrent patrols, carrying submarine-launched ballistic missiles that provide France with an independent and continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent capability. Over their service lives, the class has undergone modernization programs, including upgrades to missile systems and onboard electronics, ensuring continued relevance well into the 21st century.

The Triomphant class emphasizes extreme quieting measures, hydrodynamically refined hull forms, and advanced sonar suites, allowing the submarine to operate discreetly while on deterrent patrol. These design priorities reflect the strategic requirement that a ballistic missile submarine remain undetected at all costs, serving as a survivable second-strike platform.

Weathering on this model was depicted to represent months and months at sea.

 

Borei Class Ballistic Missile Submarine K-535 Yuri Dolgorukiy - First Post-Cold War Russian SSBN

This model represents K-535 Yuri Dolgorukiy, the lead boat of Russia’s Borei-class ballistic missile submarines, built in 1/350 scale and finished using acrylics with oils applied for restrained, realistic weathering. As with all of my submarine builds, the model is displayed on a standardized, hand-cut hardwood base painted to resemble a miniature slipway, providing visual consistency across the submarine collection.

The display base incorporates three reference elements: the national flag of origin, a 1/350 scale human figure positioned just above and to the right of the flag for size comparison, and a QR code that can be scanned with a cellphone camera (see the side-view photo) to access additional historical and technical information about the submarine.

The Borei class represents Russia’s first entirely new generation of ballistic missile submarines designed after the end of the Cold War. Developed to replace the aging Delta III and Delta IV classes, the Borei program reflects a shift toward quieter operation, improved survivability, and modernized strategic deterrence capabilities within the Russian Navy.

K-535 Yuri Dolgorukiy was commissioned in 2013 after a lengthy and complex development period that spanned the post-Soviet transition. The submarine is powered by a nuclear reactor and is armed with the RSM-56 Bulava submarine-launched ballistic missile, providing Russia with a sea-based nuclear deterrent intended to remain credible well into the 21st century. Later Borei-A variants introduced further refinements in acoustics, hull shaping, and onboard systems.

The Borei class features a blended hull form influenced by earlier Akula and Oscar designs, extensive sound-dampening measures, and a focus on reducing radiated noise to enhance survivability during deterrent patrols. These submarines are designed to operate primarily in bastion areas, where layered naval and air defenses increase their strategic protection.

 

Vanguard-Class Ballistic Missile Submarine HMS Victorious (S29) - Backbone of Britain’s Continuous At-Sea Deterrent

HMS Victorious (S29) is one of four Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarines constructed to uphold the United Kingdom’s Continuous At-Sea Deterrent. Entering Royal Navy service during the closing years of the Cold War, the Vanguard class has remained central to Britain’s strategic nuclear posture into the modern era, operating silently and continuously to provide an assured second-strike capability.

This 1/350 scale model of HMS Victorious was completed using acrylic paints with restrained oil weathering to reflect the clean, well-maintained appearance typical of an operational SSBN. Rather than heavy wear, subtle tonal variation and shadowing were used to suggest scale, mass, and the subdued finish of modern submarine coatings. The model is mounted on a hand-cut hardwood base painted to represent a simplified slipway, consistent with my submarine series. Each base includes the national flag of origin, a 1/350 scale human figure for size reference, and a QR code linking to additional historical and technical information on the vessel.