Starfighter 1/72 F4D-1 Project Pilot (NOTSNIK) Conversion Set First Look
by Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | April 2018 | Manufacturer | Starfighter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | F4D-1 Project Pilot (NOTSNIK) Conversion Set | Scale | 1/72 |
| Set Number | 7221 | Primary Media | Resin |
| Pros | Nicely detailed rocket | Cons | Nothing noted |
| Skill Level | Experienced | MSRP (USD) | $15.00 |
First Look
Starfighter Decals has released this conversion set to accompany a decal sheet that depicts the first space test program for the Naval Ordnance Test Station at NAS China Lake. Almost a year after the Soviet Union's successful orbiting of Sputnik I, Project Pilot was established to develop a satellite launch system as well as an anti-satellite (ASAT) missile. Under the guise of Project Pilot, the Pilot-1 was a surface-launched system while Pilot-2 was an air-launched version. The Navy provided an F4D-1 to serve as the air launcher, and after modifications were completed at China Lake, the F4D-1 attempted six launches out of NAS Point Mugu. While NACA was pulling together available technologies to get the US into the space race, the Navy was following this parallel path with 0 out of 10 total launches (six from the F4D-1) successfully reaching orbit (though one was thought to have reached orbit, but this couldn't be confirmed).
Cast in gray resin, this detail set replicates the Pilot-2 rocket with the upper fuselage, lower rocket motor/fuel cells, rocket motor bells, stabilization fins, and launch pylon for the F4D-1 Skyray. This set will allow you to recreate a unique piece of early spaceflight history.
You can purchase this detail set directly from Starfighter on their website.
My sincere thanks to Mark's Models for this review sample!