Trumpeter 02809 1/48 RA-5C Vigilante hot Aircraft Model Kit

Basic Info

• Brand：TRUMPETER
• Item No：02809
• Scale：1/48
• Subject：US Navy RA‑5C Vigilante carrier‑borne supersonic reconnaissance aircraft
• Finished Dimensions：Length 475 mm, Wingspan 336.7 mm
• Photo‑etched Parts：Not included
• Total Parts：237 pieces

Kit Contents

• Complete plastic sprues for RA‑5C Vigilante
• Detailed reconnaissance sensor canoe and tail‑cone components
• Clear transparent parts for cockpit canopy and windows
• Masking film for instrument panel
• Waterslide decals for US Navy RVAH‑5 marking scheme (USS America CVN‑66)airkitpro....
• Instruction manual
• Note: Pilot figures are NOT included

Kit Features

• Accurately reproduces the distinctive large under‑fuselage reconnaissance sensor pod of RA‑5C variant
• Fine recessed panel lines and surface detail for fuselage, wings and twin‑engine nacelles
• Detailed cockpit interior with instrument‑panel detail
• Canopy can be assembled in open or closed state
• Main landing‑gear and nose‑gear structure fully reproduced
• Correct shape of air‑intakes, tail stabilizers and exhaust nozzles
• Unassembled plastic kit, glue and paint are not included. After‑market photo‑etch sets are available separately for further fine‑detail upgrade.

Recommended Builders

Suitable for intermediate‑advanced aircraft modellers, not recommended for absolute beginners.

Historical Background

The RA‑5C Vigilante was a carrier‑based supersonic reconnaissance aircraft of the United States Navy. Originally designed as a nuclear‑capable strike bomber A‑5, it was later converted for high‑speed tactical reconnaissance missions. Entering service in 1964, RA‑5C performed vital photo‑reconnaissance missions over North Vietnam during the Vietnam War, flying at Mach 2.1 maximum speed. Operating from US Navy aircraft carriers, it mapped enemy positions and assessed bombing damage. The type retired from active service in the mid‑1970s.