Platz have re-released their X-47B in a new form with GBU-27 guided bombs. The basic kit is unchanged from the initial release (reviewed HERE by Matthew Robeson), but with an additional sprue along with a new set of decals.

Arriving in a glossy top-opening box, the kit comprises:
29 23 12 x grey styrene parts
Decals for 4 x colour schemes

The moulding throughout is crisp and blemish-free. There’s no trace of flash or sink marks on the sample kit, and the few light ejector pin marks are tucked pretty well out of sight. The exterior surface has a satin finish with very neatly engraved panel lines.

Based on my experience building the original kit, I can vouch that the fit is excellent and trouble free. The unusual air intake is cleverly designed to drop in and follows a panel line.

With no cockpit to worry about, assembly is very quick. The only detail sections to concentrate on are the nicely moulded undercarriage and weapons. The kit offers a choice of extended or folded wings and, despite its tricycle undercarriage, doesn’t require weight in the nose.

The original GBU-31 1,000lb bombs are still included, but an all-new sprue offers a pair of GBU-27 Paveway IIIs. The new parts are moulded to the same high standard as the rest of the kit, and the “bunker busters” include separate fins and new-style launch racks.

Instructions & decals

Platz have printed the assembly guide as a large fold-out sheet with bi-lingual Japanese/English text and captions. The diagrams are clearly drawn and simple to follow, and Gunze Sangyo and ModelMaster paint matches are offered along with FS numbers, so you should be able to find suitable colours wherever you’re based.

As usual in Platz kits, the decals are custom-printed by Cartograf and, as you’d expect, they are excellent. The thin and glossy designs are in perfect register and have almost no excess carrier film. The sheet offers markings for a pair of prototype aircraft - #501 and #502 - plus two notional “operational” schemes with insignia for CVW-8 and CVW-14.

Conclusion

Platz’s X-47B is a great kit - simple enough to make an ideal “weekend build”, and radical enough to turn heads anywhere. Recommended for modellers of all abilities wanting a glimpse into the possible future of naval aviation.

Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE.