TMN: A Scooter & Challenger II in 48th from HobbyBoss in August...

An early Scooter & a very hot Challenger are the two latest releases (in 48th scale) from HobbyBoss for August. We look at the colours, decals, & built-up kit in our preview...

A Scooter & Challenger II in 48th from HobbyBoss in August...

British Challenger II (OP.Telic), Iraq, 2003

by Hobbyboss

Model: 84853

1/48th scale

Product Link

Further development of the Challenger 1 by Vickers Defence Systems resulted in the Challenger 2 MBT, of which 386 have been ordered by the British Army, with deliveries running from 1994 through to 2000. Oman has ordered 18 Challenger 2 MBTs. With the introduction of Challenger 2, all remaining Chieftain and Challenger 1 MBTs will be phased out of service with the British Army. Although similar in appearance to Challenger 1, the Challenger 2 MBT has many improvements, including a brand new turret armed with the latest 120mm L30 rifled tank gun firing a new APFSDS-T (Armour Piercing Fin Discarding Sabot Tracer) projectile with a depleted uranium penetrator.

The colour schemes presented in this kit

The decals in the box

The new computerised fire control system, all-electric gun control and stabilising system, and stabilised sights for the commander and gunner give a high degree of first-round hit probability under both day and night conditions. Standard equipment includes a thermal camera over the mantlet of the 120mm gun which provides a picture for the gunner and commander, as well as an NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) system, mounting points for additional fuel drums at the rear, and mounting points for a Combat Dozer Blade at the front of the hull.

Model Length: 237.5 mm Width: 81 mm

Total Sprues 7 sprues

The kit consists of over 190 parts.

Newly tooled parts in accurate detail

The CAD images of this kit in development with features highlighted

A-4C Sky Hawk

by Hobbyboss

Model: 81789

1/48th scale

Product Link

The A-4C Skyhawk was a pivotal variant of the Douglas A-4 series, designed as a lightweight, carrier-capable attack aircraft for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Introduced in 1959, the A-4C featured significant upgrades over its predecessors, including improved radar systems, an all-weather flying capability, and a redesigned cockpit layout for enhanced pilot safety and efficiency. Its compact delta wing design eliminated the need for folding mechanisms, making it ideal for operations on smaller aircraft carriers. Powered by a Curtiss-Wright J65-W-16A turbojet engine, the A-4C could reach speeds up to 655 mph and carry a versatile payload of bombs, rockets, and missiles across five hardpoints.

The colour schemes presented in this kit

The decals in the box

Masks are provided in this kit

In combat, the A-4C Skyhawk proved its mettle during the Vietnam War, where it was extensively used for close air support and precision strikes against ground targets. Its agility, reliability, and ability to deliver a heavy ordnance load made it a favourite among pilots, earning nicknames like “Scooter” and “Heinemann’s Hot-Rod.” The aircraft’s small size and nimble handling allowed it to evade enemy defences more effectively than larger jets. With over 600 units produced, the A-4C became the most numerous variant of the Skyhawk family, serving not only in U.S. forces but also in the air arms of countries like Argentina and Israel, where it continued to see action well into the late 20th century.

Model Length: 274 mm Wingspan: 174 mm

Total of 7 sprues

The kit consists of over 120 parts.

- Detailed fuselage & w/accurate design

-Detailed cockpit

The kit made up by hobbyboss modellers