1. Plastikmodellbauclub Nürnberg e.V.
 
back to index MF 3   back to homepage
  Model and photos by Wilfried Eck  
     

Grumman EA-6A "Electric Intruder", Monogram 1/48
Reserve Carrier Air Wing 20, VAQ 209, September 1985

The Original:

The EA-6A was, as can be seen from the prefix "E", a variant of the all-weather bomber A-6A for the suppression/interference of enemy radar signals ("electronic counter measures"). A streamlined container on the fin accommodated the Bunker-Ramo AN/ALQ-86 system, the AN/APN-153 navigation radar was placed in the nose radome (due to less space required, the nose radome could be kept shorter with the same external shape). An AN/APQ fire control radar for AGM-45 "Shrike" rockets was available, but in practice the EA-6A did not use the "Shrike", which was connected to a radar signal. The existing machines were distributed between US Navy and Marne Corps, main operational use was at Vietnam.


Only 28 were built. 11 from rebuilt A-6A, 15 new, first flight on 26.04.1963. In the middle of 1970 it was replaced by the EA-6B Prowler in front service, but continued to do service in reserve and training units until 1993 the last one was taken out of service.

 

Modelling:

The pictures are new, the model isn't. Almost 30 years have passed since its construction. Since this type is almost forgotten nowadays and also the kit will be available only on a model exchange, the question is why I am coming with it today. It's quite simple: When I rearranged something, the list of what had to be done to make this model fell into my hands. There was no A-6A at that time, only the EA-6A "Electric Intruder", Monogram-typical with accurate outer contour and raised panel lines. - Usable if one did not set too large requirements. But if the model should look less "model-like" and more realistic, a lot was needed. Etched and resin parts were not so "in" at that time.


At the beginning there was the question how the Intruder should look like. As the decals for the VAQ-209 were for an aircraft in aircraft carrier use, there were two options: Either in parking position with folded wings (that's the way it is) or unfolded in flying position with crew is sitting inside. As a result for me the latter.


What was necessary in detail can be taken from said (translated) list for an exhibition.

  List of Alterations
   
01 Sand off raised panel lines, replace by engraved ones.
02 Replace air intakes by homemade ones.
03 Cut out navigation light sections, insert clear parts (colors by permanent ink).
04 Remove boundary layer fences, cut slits and insert sheet metal parts (Coke can).
05 Remove slats, file insides to appropriate form (= thin rear edges).
06 Build up new wing fronts.
07 Insert rails for slats.*
08 Remove flaps, make new ones from plastic sheet.
09 Thin out front of of former flap apertures.
10 Insert detailed new flap rails.*
11 Sand elevators thinner, especially rear ends.
12 Sand rudder to sharp rear end.
13 Replace too thick engine exhausts by scratch built ones.
14 Add details to front landing gear.
15 Add details to main landing gear.
16 Rework and detail ejection seats.
17 Carve pilot figurines from plastic stock, belts and details various materials.
18 Mould new canopy and insert it.
19 Replace tank arm.
20 Antennas and pitot tubes scratch metal parts.
21 Painting and decals as usual (no "ageing").
* Slats and flaps inserted after painting was done.

 


 "VAQ 209 Intruder returning from carrier duty " (markings soon to be removed).