The basic model for the Hovercraft was actually, at first, a... G.I. Joe toy whose superstructure was modified to fit the 1/35 scale so that figures, tank turrets, and various accessories could be added... Its interesting shape made it possible to turn it into a realistic vehicle. This machine never actually existed and was inspired by American hovercrafts and patrol boats in Vietnam that crisscrossed the rivers and the sea...
View of the disassembled model and modifications to the structure...
A major remodeling effort to change the scale. The toy’s overly crude parts were removed and replaced with more realistic pieces from the surplus box.
Various items were tested and added, such as tank turrets, to enhance realism and stay true to the equipment of the era.
- The upper part of the roof, originally designed to hold figures, is sealed off with plastic card...
- The upper front section is reworked to accommodate two M113 turrets and one M5 turret...
- The area beneath the propellers is hollowed out and replaced with fine wire mesh...
- Resin parts from 155mm cannons will serve as torpedo tubes...
First cut...
Rear view - The pylons equipped with antennas were discarded because they looked too “sci-fi.” The same goes for the propeller protection “wheels”... Two complete B-24 Liberator engines have replaced the original ones...
Another view... The starboard engine cowling hasn't been redone. The engine section has been enhanced with added parts, which allows the whole assembly to be shown... The radar on the roof, which is too modern, will be removed... A Ford Mutt 151 jeep is positioned at the front...
Miniature test...
Photo of the original toy showing the forward cargo hold panel and the upper cover...
Since these two parts are missing from the model used, the front will be closed off and the upper section occupied by the jeep and its crew...
The driver's cab, rebuilt to a scale of 1:35, with various accessories...
Painting
First base coats applied with an airbrush using shades of green—always starting with the darkest and working toward the lightest. HUMBROL oil-based paint.
The removable parts on the engines let you paint them separately from the rest of the model... which is really handy...
Progress "in line with" the Greens... We also note the new roof-mounted radar, similar to the PBR type...
Installation of a resin raft at the stern and the first signs of dirt on the air tube...
Removing the stains...
The Jeep
The jeep, which also came from the surplus bin, is given its "Vietnam" livery after being cleaned and primed...
The finished model...
The figurines
The jeep in position, surrounded by soldiers...
After painting, the figures are arranged realistically on the vehicle...
The model on its display stand after having a coat of satin varnish applied to the top...
