Caracal Models CD 48137: EKA-3B Skywarrior

Units:	See Review
Price	$13.99 which includes US shipping
Reviewer:	Scott Van Aken

Though perhaps a tad tardy in regards to the Trumpeter kit for which it is designed, the latest Caracal Models sheet is for the EKA-3B Skywarrior. This is an aircraft close to my heart as it contains a plane I actually worked around when in VAQ-130.

All of these planes are in the matt light gull grey over gloss white scheme of the time. As you can see from the list, three of the options are for VAQ-130. A couple of notes on the 130 planes. VAQ-130 was the training unit for the EKA-3B and also supplied detachments to deployed carriers. Its tail code was VR and why that is on the Coral Sea option is unknown, but there is photo evidence to back it.  Secondly, the tail band color for det 2 was dark maroon and not black. Those of us in det 2 even wore maroon ball caps. In addition, the serial 142339 is a typo as that serial was applied to an ex-USAF F-84B used as a target drone. It should be 142239.

EKA-3B Skywarrior BuNo. 142251, VAQ-130 Det.42, USS Roosevelt - 1970

EKA-3B Skywarrior BuNo. 142664, VAQ-134, USS Ranger - 1970

EKA-3B Skywarrior BuNo. 142659, VAQ-129, USS Hancock - 1970

EKA-3B Skywarrior BuNo. 147655, VAQ-133, USS Kitty Hawk - 1970

EKA-3B Skywarrior BuNo. 142656, VAQ-130, USS Coral Sea - 1969

EKA-3B Skywarrior BuNo. 142339, VAQ-130 Det.2, USS Midway - 1971

This comprehensive set includes sufficient insignia, data markings, and wing walk decals for one aircraft.