Kovozávody Prostějov (KP) – KPM0495 – Cessna U-17B “Asian users”

Description:

Unassembled plastic model kit in 1/72 scale of a U.S. Cessna 185 Skywagon utility aircraft.

The Cessna U-17 is a military variant of the Cessna 185 Skywagon, developed for utility, liaison, and light transport roles. It was widely used during the Vietnam War and in various military forces around the world. The aircraft retained the high-wing, taildragger configuration of the civilian Cessna 185 but was modified for rugged operations, allowing it to operate from unprepared airstrips and in harsh environments.

Powered by a Continental IO-520 engine producing 300 horsepower, the U-17 could carry up to six people or cargo, making it ideal for reconnaissance, medical evacuation, and personnel transport. It was especially valued for its STOL (short takeoff and landing) capabilities, enabling it to operate in remote areas where larger aircraft could not land. The U-17 saw extensive use by the U.S. Air Force under the Military Assistance Program (MAP), being supplied to allied nations, particularly in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Some were even equipped with light armament for counter-insurgency missions. Today, many U-17s remain in service with air forces and civilian operators, proving their durability and reliability.

Update with new decal sheet of kit tooled in 2022. The new decal sheet include three markings, focusing in Asian users of the type, and include South Vietnam, Royal Thai and Pakistani markings.