This makes the third (at least) Seahawk kit produced in 1/72 scale. Back in the olden days, Airfix produced a very simplified version that had all the shapes right, and was well received by the pocket money crowd of the day. Aeroclub produced some upgrade parts for it so that it could be made into a more presentable model. Frog did one that was probably older than the Airfix version as it had the head molded in the cockpit. Thanks for the reminders about this one.

Not that long ago, MPM/Special Hobby did several boxings with their usual addition of photo etch and other bits in their short run line. This is the latest and may well be the best of the bunch as it provides all the detail most would want without having to rely on non-styrene substitutes (though I'm sure there will be aftermarket for it).

The kit is molded on four grey and one clear sprue with a superlative level of detail in the engraved panel lines. The forward fuselage pieces are split horizontally and include the full wings. The tail is vertically split and this allows for the later tall tail version to be kitted with minimal changes in the rest of the sprues. The cockpit tub is nicely detailed with a respectable seat as well as raised detail on the side consoles and instrument panel. A decal is also provided. Nicely molded intake and exhaust trunks are done with the little vanes for the intakes molded in place. There is sufficient room in the nose for weight as this one will probably need it.

Wheel wells are fully boxed in and the correct shape. The arrestor hook looks as if it can be posed up or down. A very clear two piece canopy assembly is provided and is protected from scratches with bubble foam. For things under wings there are two drop tanks and eight rocket rails. The rocket bodies are molded onto the stubs with a separate tail fin piece. One needs to open holes for these items if one wishes to install them. I appreciate that Hobby Boss isn't already opening these holes and gives us the option to build a clean aircraft.

Markings are provided for three planes. One is the box art aircraft in extra dark sea grey over white with 806 Squadron in the late 1950s. These markings are almost identical to a warbird that is flying in the UK. The other British plane is an 810 Squadron plane from the Suez Crisis in 1956 with the black and yellow bands. This is in extra dark sea grey over sky. For some odd reason, Hobby Boss seems to think that these planes have large serial numbers on the top of the wings as well as the underside. They do not so toss the second set of large serials. The third option in extra dark sea grey over white is an Indian Navy plane from the INS Vikrant in the 1960s. The two decal sheets are very nicely printed and should work very well. The instruction sheet includes Hobby Boss' nicely drawn construction steps and the full color markings guide includes several paint options. I should mention that the paint instructions call for dark sea grey on the uppers and this is an acceptable shade as the extra dark sea grey quickly weathered when exposed to the elements.