This is my Hasegawa CF-188A in 1/48 scale built last summer using Leading Edge sheet # 48-024. It was built OOB. This kit was much easier to build than I expected and the detail still impresses me after sitting on the shelf for 6 months. The Hornet modeled, 188795, is normally with 416 "Lynx" Squadron. The Balkan Rats were a group of CAF Hornets from various units sent to Europe to help out with NATO operations over Kosovo.

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The only problem during assembly was my own fault. I didn't securely attach the spotlight to the inside of the nose. While masking the light I accidently pushed into the fully assembled nose. After much swearing and model shaking, I retrieved the part. Now I had to attach it from the outside. I had to enlarge the opening to get that part in place. Microscale Micro Crystal Clear was used to fair in the spotlight to the exterior.  I also discovered later on that the main gear shock absorbers on Canadian Hornets is different than thier US counterparts. I used parts K46, part K45 should have been used... I'll get it right next time.

The air to air weapons are from the spares box. The GBU 10's are from Hasegawa's weapons set "D" I traded 2 JDAM's to Mark Lynam to get these... Thanks Mark.  I'd also like to thank Lyle "Tilt" Katchur, Tom Calbury, and Scott Hemsley for the great references and answers to my questions. And Uncle Rick Chin for stepping up to the plate as well with the great prices and service at Uncle Bill's Hobbies. And Thanks to all the ARCer's for the great inspiration, you know who you are. Last but not least... Thanks to Steve B, I couldn't have done this kit without ARC.

Charlie 'Cheetah' Arsenault

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