THE SUBJECT

The Boeing EA-18G Growler is an American carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft, a specialized version of the two-seat F/A-18F Super Hornet. The EA-18G replaced the Northrop Grumman EA-6B Prowlers in service with the United States Navy. The Growler's electronic warfare capability is primarily provided by Northrop Grumman. The EA-18G began production in 2007 and entered operational service with the US Navy in late 2009. Australia has also purchased twelve EA-18Gs, which entered service with the Royal Australian Air Force in 2017. ~wikipedia~

THE BOX

As usual ACADEMY present a great piece of artwork to lure you in. Plus they provide nice information about the markings options color references and a bit of information regarding the subject. Inside there are multiple bags to protect two or three sprues each. Clear parts are bagged separately, but mine was slightly scuffed. Not a big deal considering the parting seam has to be polished yet if it were something else that was clear I'd suggest they place a bit of rubberized foam over the part. That said, they package the items well for shipping. If you find the top a tight fit... you're not alone.

DECALS

ACADEMY have wisely bundled this kit with superbly printed Cartograf decals. If you don't know by now, Cartograf are well regraded in the hobby as a premier producer of transfers and they did not disappoint. Even under a magnifier you can read all the information. Truly astounding for a 1/72 scale.

INSTRUCTIONS and MARKINGS

Instructions come on two pamphlet style foldouts that are a nice size to read yet small enough as to not get in the way. Suggested paint manufacturers are Humbrol, GSI Creos, Lifecolor, TESTORS/MODEL MASTER, Vallejo and AK Interactive. 13 easy to follow steps get you the end and the color call-outs. Nicely printed, the color markings sheet has three schemes;

• EA-18G VAQ-141 "SHADOWHAWKS", BuNo. 166928, USS George H. W. Bush, 2010
• EA-18G VAQ-141 "SHADOWHAWKS", BuNo. 166928, USS George Washington, 2013
• EA-18G A46-306, BuNo. 169153, No.6 Squardron, RAAF, 2015

THE PLASTIC

You'll notice right away that the detail is terrific. Nicely scaled recessed panel lines, rivets and raised parts adorn the model. At first I thought they were a little soft and we can debate that sometime, but I thought a test would better. I used some Flory Models dark clay wash on the bare plastic to see what result could be achieved (please see photo at the bottom of the review). My conclusion is a micro filler primer and a lacquer paint would be best... the decision, of course, is yours. There is some flash, but only a trace of burring. ACADEMY have used plenty of slide molding to accentuate parts and graciously added walls to protect others. The connections point are small and well thought out and I couldn't find any sink marks or bothersome mold release points. The surface though is slightly rough in areas and smooth on others. I've never been next to one of these birds so I will assume this is ACADEMY's representation of the real aircraft. The one piece canopy is very clear yet a tiny center seam runs the length. Well worth the effort to polish considering the cockpit has some nice detail and decals to liven it up.

CONCLUSION

After paint, wash, decals and a dull coat this model will be stunning in any of the markings provided and I can't wait to begin working on it. It's well worth the purchase for an interesting subject and should be a very rewarding end result.

Special thanks to ACADEMY and MRC for sending along this kit for review.

When shopping for this model please mention you saw a review on KitMaker Network Aeroscale. Thank you and happy modeling.