History

The McDonnell-Douglas F-4 used several variants of the Martin-Baker Mk 5 and Mk 7 ejection seat, depending upon the customer. The Mk 5 was designed to meet the needs of the US Navy's combat aircrews in high performance jet aircraft. After the F-4 Phantom was selected by the USAF, the seat was modified to suit that service's slightly different requirements

First impressions

Both US Navy and USAF seats are offered by Hypersonic, with subtle differences in the seat cushions and emergency oxygen bottles. In the photo, the darker grey resin is the USAF seat. Each set includes two seats.

seat

The seats come complete with moulded-on harnesses. There is a mould pedestal on the base of the seat which needs careful removal but which may be used to hold the seat during painting. The face curtain rings have a resin web which must be cleaned out before they may be glued in place. A short segment of wire is provided to represent a prominent cable on the left side of the seat. The instructions detail where it is to be placed. There is a secondary activating handle at the front of the seat pan which is moulded with its guard shield in place. It is not as clearly portrayed as I have seen in other aftermarket parts.

A basic painting guide is offered but the modeller should study photos to get a good feeling for how these seats looked in service.

Hypersonic Models products are available for purchase directly from their website

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