More Dutch aircraft

Oops, it’s already August and this is only my third post of the year… In my defence, I’ve been rather busy starting a new job back in April, finishing my PhD in June and starting a new hobby of learning how to fly gliders.

While I did do a fair bit of hobbying this year, I haven’t gotten ‘round to posting about it. So, here is a quick post of three more Dutch Aircraft. First up is a Spitfire Mk. V of 322 (Dutch) Sqn. RAF with the markings of Jan Leendert Plesman. After the war, 322 Sqn. would become the first squadron of the newly formed RNLAF. The kit is by Airfix and the markings were cut and assembled from an aftermarket decal sheet for the RAF New Zealand squadrons.

Up second is a Gloster Meteor F. Mk.4 of 324 Sqn. stationed at Leeuwarden AB c. 1950. The kit is by Special Hobby and was built as is. The aircraft is very tail heavy and the instructions do not mention that you should weigh down the nose. So, having already closed up the hull and finding out that she would not stand up straight, I was forced to fill the main landing gear bay with air rifle pellets. There may have been some mild swearing involved.

And finally, a Hawker Hunter F. Mk.6, also of 324 Sqn. stationed at Leeuwarden AB, c. 1957. This is an older Revell kit that I bought second hand and was built as is. Upon opening the box I found that it held two full kits with instructions and decals. So, if I ever want a second Dutch, a Belgian or a British Hunter I’m sorted!

If including only operational jets of the RNLAF (so no trainers), I’ve only got the Thunderjet, the F-86K version of the Sabre, and the F-35 left to build. I’m skipping the first, as it’s essentially identical to my Thunderstreak but with straight wings. I think the F-86K may be one of the ugliest jets ever built, plus getting hold of a decent and affordable kit is quite tricky. So, I’m still unsure if I’ll ever add one of those to the collection. I’ve already got an Italeri F-35 with Dutch markings in my stash, but it may be a little while before I get around to it. It’s a bit too modern for my liking.

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