Wingman Models 1/48 IAF AS.565 Panther 'Atalef' Conversion Set First Look
By Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | November 2015 | Manufacturer | Wingman Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | IAF AS.565 Panther 'Atalef' Conversion | Scale | 1/48 |
| Kit Number | 48020 | Primary Media | Resin, Photo-Etch |
| Pros | Builds into super-detailed Panther 'Atalef' | Cons | Nothing noted |
| Skill Level | Intermediate | MSRP (Euro) | 40.00€ |
First Look
Wingman Models released this interesting conversion set for the Kitty Hawk Models' 1/48 SA.365 Dauphin kit into the AS.565 Panther and adds the special sensor suite and crew station for the Israeli Atalef aircraft. This set consists of parts cast in gray resin as well as photo-etched details. Also included in this set and not shown include decals for the Atalef of 119 Sqn and a set of yellow-tape paint masks.
This set provides a blanking plate to close off the left main cabin door (not present on this aircraft), a replacement right main cabin door, and main cabin details to include a sensor operator's station, updates to the front cockpit, and the sensors and mounts for the airframe exterior. The photo-etch set includes new Fenestron tail rotor fan, access panel doors, antenna mounts, windshield wipers, and more.
The well-illustrated instructions walk you through the conversion steps and provide full-color images of the full-scale Atalef to see what the model should look like when you're finished. One of the more frustrating parts of a good conversion is finding applicable decals when you're finished, but you won't have that problem here. This set provides a set of decals to replicate one of several 119 Sqn Atalefs. The distinctive bat silhouette that appears on the tail is accomplished with a combination of paint masks (included) and decals.
If you want a very distinctive look for your Kitty Hawk kit, Wingman Models has a really nice conversion for you!
My sincere thanks to Wingman Models for this review sample!