The V-22 Osprey is produced jointly by Bell Helicopter and Boeing Rotorcraft Systems. The unique tiltrotor design allows the aircraft to operate as an helicopter (vertical landing and take-off) but with a cruise speed in excess of 200 kts. Initially deployed with the U.S. Marines, the Osprey replaces the CH-46s.
In 1/48th, the Osprey is produced by Italeri. The kit went through a couple of iterations: the early box didn’t have some of the external sensor present in the later release. However, a number of sites have reported a number of inaccuracies in the kit, even in its most current form.
Assembly of the kit is easy. Details are a bit lacking. I wish more details were provided in the main cabin and cockpit. Decals are provided for a single prototype machine.
In term of aftermarkets, I am not aware of resin or PE enhancements for this kit. However, Flying Leathernecks provide a gorgeous set of decals (FL48012 “Tiltrotor Teufelshunde”), which allows the depiction of multiple aircraft (see picture below).
Kit Summary:
- Italeri 2622
- Scale: 1/48
- Availability: Excellent
- Status: In Production
- Estimated Street Price: $35