Rather than go into a long-winded history of the Skyhawk, here is some information on the A-4H, a version that was built especially for the Israeli Air Force. Basically, it was an A-4E, but designed with an improved 9,300 lb thrust J-52-P-8A. Externally, they can be spotted by their modified square-tipped tail. Unlike the A-4E, they had a ribbon parachute housing under the tail. Since they were operated from land bases, these were deemed necessary to shorten the landing run.

Armament consisted of twin DEFA 30mm cannon in place of the USN 20mm guns. Later modifications were the avionics hump and an extended tailpipe. These two modifications were made in Israel by IAI. The extended tailpipe was to give greater protection against surface to air missiles. A total of 90 A-4Hs were delivered, staring in 1967 after the 6 Day War.

I believe that by now, the A-4 has been retired from the Israeli Air Force.

For an overall look at the sprues and the kit itself, I'll refer you to the A-4C preview done here a few weeks ago. Most of the sprues for both kits are the same. What parts are different, are shown above. Now basically, that means the fuselage with intakes and nose as well as the different tail tips. Only one will be used for the Israeli version.  The other different parts are the extended exhaust cone, the 30mm cannon fairings, parabrake housing and a few other smaller bits. The canopy isn't different, but I wanted you to see a close-up of it. While the kit itself is well detailed, the canopy is a bit off. For one thing, it is too wide. How it will look when done is unknown as I have not built this kit as of yet. It is probable that there will be an aftermarket set to correct this as well as to supply a more detailed interior.

In Hobbycraft's favor is that the kit comes complete with a full ordnance load. This means no need for an expensive additional weapons set. The weapons and racks are very well detailed. 

The instructions are quite typical of those seen on the A-4C. They are minimal, but enough to be able to build the kit. The camo and markings instructions are on the back of the box, just like the other Skyhawks. There is a bit of difference between the decals on the box and the sheet. Specifically the Israeli roundels. I'm sure that the research into the markings is good, but I would have a photo or two handy for the plane you are modeling if you want to be assured of complete accuracy.

The decals of new Hobbycraft kits are excellent and these are no different. You get markings for two A-4E and one A-4H. The H model has the extended tail cone and the 30mm cannon not found on the A-4E. It also has slightly different markings placement.  From the top, you have an A-4H of the Golden Eagle squadron from 1973, then an A-4E from the Valley squadron, also 1973. Finally, another A-4E, this time from the Flying Dragon squadron from 1969. 

The kit appears to be one that will go together with minimal fuss, like most Hobbycraft kits. What's more, you should have a model that you can proudly place on your shelf or show to your friends. After all, that is what the hobby is all about!

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