A FLIR (Forward-Looking Infra-Red) system allows a helicopter to literally see in the dark by detecting heat differences and turning them into images. FLIR can help pilots fly their aircraft at night and in fog, or to detect warm objects against a cooler background. FLIR have been installed on special operations aircraft for some time. Recently, with operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, the need for more aircraft having FLIR was realized. To fulfil a need for a FLIR that could be mounted as the mission dictated, a Quick Mount FLIR was developed that could be mounted on any H-60 quickly with minimal modifications being made to the aircraft. The standard FLIR location was under the front nose of the aircraft and required extensive modification to fit. The Quick Mount FLIR attaches onto the left side step sponson with only a few bolt with this kit.
Conversion Set
Cobra Company continues to provide exciting, new upgrades to the venerable 1/35 Academy Black Hawk kit. The latest one on the market is the UH-60 Quick Mount FLIR that has been added to some of the latest Black Hawks now in service. This FLIR mount allows any aircraft that is not usually fitted with a FLIR to quickly be fitted with one with minor modifications to the airframe.
Cobra Company provides five castings to add the Quick Mount FLIR to any Academy UH-60 kit. The parts are cast in smooth grey resin with no flash and require very little clean-up. They are easily removed from the pour blocks with a razor saw and then sanded to fit. The instructions provide clear pictures that show where to place the new pieces into position. The set includes new, wider step sponsons for both sides with the left one being shortened to allow the mount for the FLIR room to be attached. Also included are the bracket with modified pilot’s step, the mounting plate, and a very nice FLIR head.
Conclusion
Overall, this is a great set that will update the Academy kit nicely. With this set, you can make an up to date UH-60L by adding it to the Academy kit.
Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE.
SUMMARY
Highs: Perfectly cast resin. Compact, yet full of details.Lows: None noted.Verdict: Cobra Company has another great set that will be very useful and is easy to use. I highly recommend this set.
About Gino P. Quintiliani (HeavyArty) FROM: FLORIDA, UNITED STATES
Retired US Army Artillery Officer, currently a contractor at MacDill AFB in the Tampa, FL area. I have been modelling for the past 40+ years, really seriously on armor and large scale helos (1/32, 1/35) for the last 35 or so.
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