ICM – 72186 – OV-10D+ Bronco US attack and observation aircraft

Description:

Unassembled plastic model kit in 1/72 scale of a U.S. North American Rockwell OV-10 Bronco reconnaissance and light attack aircraft developed in the 60s and retired in mid 90s, in a OV-10D+ variant.

Developed under the NOGS program, the second-generation Bronco, known as the D-model, underwent significant modifications to the OV-10A airframe. Notably, it incorporated a forward-looking infrared night-vision system with a turret-mounted camera beneath an extended nose, a distinctive departure from the A-model’s short rounded nose. Equipped with larger engines and fiberglass propellers, the D-model also featured chaff dispensers along the booms and infrared-suppressive exhaust stacks to diminish its heat signature. Seventeen units were converted from the OV-10A. Subsequently, the D+ model marked the next phase of the USMC upgrade, involving extensive reworking of A and D aircraft at MCAS Cherry Point Naval Air Rework Facility. This upgrade included the installation of new wiring, strengthened wings, and a transition in engine instrumentation from round dials to tape readouts.

Box share several parts with the first release ICM – 72185 – OV-10А Bronco except for decal sheet, which contains 4 new markings of the USMC (U.S. Marine Corps) in the 90s, including two markings for 1991 Desert Storm operation in Iraq, and the main fuselage sprue, changed by a new one to address differences between the old OV-10A variant from the late 60s and early 70s with the latest D+ series which lasted in service till the mid/late 90s.

Despite OV-10D+ was an observation an reconnaissance aircraft it retained some armament and attack capabilities, and all the four schemas mount some of the rocket launchers common to the type as LA-10A, LAU-68 or LAU69A while rest of the pylons/hard points are used by external fuel tanks to increase aircraft autonomy and range.