Monogram 1/48 A-7B Operation Linebacker

I built this one as part of the Vietnam War Aircraft GB here on FSM run by jeaton. I chose this kit for the fact that it was a simple build and would not take too long, as long as I did not let myself get sidetracked and stuck to what was in the box as much as I could. I was in the process of moving when the GB kicked off and started out quite simple once my move was completed and I was able to get my bench up and running again. I did do a small upgrade in the cockpit, modified the upper landing gear doors and Sidewinder rails to match reality. 

The Monogram kit is a 1979 revamp of an Aurora molding first released in 1969 with open hold for a cockpit and retractable landing gear. I did swap out some of the ordnance, but I kept the kit TERs and Mk.82 500 lb. LDGP bombs because they were decent enough. After looking across every A-7 Vietnam war photo that I could find online, I settled on the warload molded as it had the TERs and Mk.82s, but also some Rockeye CBUs and Shrike ARMs for a nice variety of weapons that is historically accurate for the time. The Shrikes and Rockeyes came from Hasegawa weapon sets.

As for the aircraft itself, I chose VA-93 because I really liked the sharkmouth markings, and because they flew the A-7B for three deployments in Vietnam between 1970 and the cease fire in 1973. In particular I wanted to model an aircraft from the Linebacker period. I was able to track down a website with information on all A-7s built, their Buereau of Aeronautics numbers, squadron assignments with Modex if known, and fate. From a few decal sheets I was able to cobble together markings for this aircraft NF 314 Bu.No. 154506. Originally assigned to VA-125 when built, it was transferred to VA-93 on USS Midway in 1972, likely when she was sent back to line in response to North Vietnam’s “Easter Offensive” in spring 1972. Not quite yet six months after they had returned from their last combat cruise aboard USS Midway in November 1971. After a short period at Dixie Station off South Vietnam flying against the NVA ground forces, USS Midway and VA-93 moved north to Yankee Station and participated in Operation Linebacker strikes from early May 1972 throughout the summer, and into the fall of 1972. NF 314/154506’s luck ran out six months later on November 10, 1972 while flying armed reconnaissance. Damaged by AAA, the pilot was able to guide the mortally wounded aircraft out over the Gulf of Tonkin where he successfully ejected and was rescued. One of three, and the final, combat loss for VA-93 during Operation Linebacker.

Thanks for looking, comments and critiques are welcome