Avro Shackleton AEW.2

by Len Thompson

Avro Shackleton AEW.2

from Squadron.com

The illustrious Shackleton was the last in a line heavies designed and build by A.V. Roe, which could be traced back through the Lincoln and Lancaster to the Manchester twin-engine bomber.

Back in 1971-74, twelve of the MR-2 sub variant were converted to the Airborne Early Warning role. This involved fitting the ancient APS-20F(I) radar, which had first been used in 1944.

This radar was used in the Fleet Air Arm’s Skyraiders and Gannets before being fitted to the Shack!

The kit is the Revell (originally Frog) kit in 1/72. Built out of the box, it makes up as a MR-3. The model was converted with the excellent Aeroclub conversion set. This involves adding a new lower nose with the radome, changing to tail wheel configuration, changing the wing tip shape, new canopy etc.

Those who have built this model will know that it is covered in millions of oversized rivets. A lot of sanding is needed to remove them. The model was also rescribed. The fit left something to be desired especially around the engines. A fair bit of filler was needed. Aeroclub also supply good white metal replacement exhausts. I reworked the tail surfaces, which originally featured moving parts, to look a little better.

The aircraft was used by 8 Sqn RAF, from Lossiemouth in Scotland. The model was finished in Humbrol Dark Sea Grey, with the decals also from Aeroclub. These are printed by Fantasy Print Shop and are first class.

Click the thumbnails below to view larger images:

Model, Images and Article Copyright © 2002 by Len Thompson
Page Created 11 March, 2002
Last updated 04 June, 2007

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