History

Developed to meet a 1957 US Navy requirement for a high-performance ASW helicopter with boat-type hull and retractable landing gear, and all-weather capability. Designated S-61 (HSS-2), the prototype first flew on 11 March 1959; seven preproduction aircraft (YHSS-2) successfully completed service trials in 1960. US Navy ordered initial 10 S-61B/HSS-2 for delivery starting September 1961. Aircraft redesignated SH-3A Sea King in 1962. Also produced under licence by Agusta, Mitsubishi and Westland. VERSIONS S-61A: Amphibious transport, generally similar to the US Navy's SH-3A. Accommodation for 26 troops, 15 litters, cargo, or 12 passengers in VIP configuration. General Electric T58 turboshaft engines standard, but Rolls-Royce Gnome H.1200 offered as alternative.
Courtesy:- aviastar.org

First Impressions

147 light gray parts on 7 sprues.
17 clear parts on 1 sprue.
Clean moulding, crisp detail.

Fuselage

Four parts make up the main fuselage.
Details moulded to cabin interior walls.
Seating for aircrew and 20 seats for marines.
Large sliding door can be installed open to show off interior.
No shroud for tail rotor cover at junction with main rotor housing
The shroud can be found in Eduard's exterior PE set for the Sea King

Rotor Blades

5 blade assembly with blade droop moulded in.
Blades can be assembled folded or open for flight,

Empennage

Four part construction.
1 piece tail rot

Landing gear

Fixed landing gear with tread moulded into tire.
Tires are not moulded weighted

Accuracy

I don't compare models to drawings or published measurements. When assembled it will look like a Sea King.

Paint ,Decals and Markings

Paint manufactures Aqueous Hobby, Mr Color and Model Master are noted.
Exterior paint colours are marked but no Interior colours so you will have to search the web for cockpit photos.
High quality Cartograf decals are in register and appear to be colour correct.
Decals for one aircraft:-
Shirase Flight Division Yokosuka District, HS-101 J.M.S.D.F, Tateyama AB.

Related reviews:
Westland Commando HC.4
Sikorski SH-3D Sea King
Westland Sea King AEW.2

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