1:48 ICM Conquerors of Europe`s Sky

[Fran]

1:48

Conquerors of

Europe`s Sky

ICM

Catalogue number 48324

Price: around 81,95€

 

ICM continues to launch combo kit set that are a very good option to the modeler.

Today we are checking the 1/48 “Conquerors of Europe’s Sky” combo set (catalog number 48324) that includes three iconic World War II aircraft: the B-26C Marauder, P-51D Mustang, and Spitfire Mk.XVI.

So, three models in one box and its quite bix box. Packaging is typical ICM latest, each kit is served in the separate plastic bag. There are 454mm and 362 parts for big twin-engine B-26C Marauder, 207mm wingspan and 136 parts for Sptifire Mk.XVI and 235mm wingspan with 80 parts for P-51D Mustang.

Let's crack the box!!

 One thing curious about this set…. It’s the first time that ICM release a C version…

This B-26 contains an extra sprue that doesn`t exist in the B version.

 As for the Spitfire and the Mustang, these are older kits. ICM has made significant strides in improving the quality of their kits and as we going to show the new release feature crisp molding.

  

The ICM 1/48 scale B-26B and B-26C model kits are very closely related, as they represent variants of the same aircraft family — the Martin B-26 Marauder — with minor but important differences. In real life, the B-26B and B-26C were mechanically and structurally identical, with the only real-world difference being the location of manufacture:

·         B-26B: Built at Baltimore, Maryland

·         B-26C: Built at Omaha, Nebraska

 

 As for the B-26 B click here

 For the G version click here

 

Now as for the  C version, a new sprue. The K sprue.

The sprue K provides the specific parts for this version, featuring spars for attaching the wing root, a new instrument panel, and the wheels' rims for the landing gear. This sprue is also available in the G version but not on the B version box.  But for this sprue to make the C version you only need the wheels hubs a vent, a small gondola and boomerang antenna.

 

 

There`s a different between these two and the B-26C as they are from older moldes when ICM was still growing to the actual quality and finesse.

First up is the P-51D Mustang

It comprising around 80 parts, this model is more straightforward to assemble of all three. It offers a detailed cockpit and well-molded surfaces, making it a favorable choice for those looking to enhance their modeling skills.

 

 

Considering that the kit was released in 2001 as the P-51C and in 2003 https://www.scalemates.com/kits/icm-48153-north-american-p-51d-15--1080729 with parts for the D variant, the kit has held up surprisingly well and is very easy to build. Of course, the kit can't compete with newer Czech kits in terms of detail, but it can be assembled quickly:

So The P-51D the parts have good surface detail but not as good as the B-26C. Also the sprues have a few flash that will take a bit more time to clean up.

  

Now the Spitfire.

The kit dates back to 2001 and has held up relatively well for its age - https://www.scalemates.com/kits/icm-48061-spitfire-mkix--211640

The spitfire has more in-box detail with a full engine.

The cockpit detail is quite good from the box.

 

 

 

As I said with the P-51, the Spitfire is much older than the B26C, Its not the new ICM detail level.

Although it comprising around 136 parts, the build is quite straight forward and building the engine will take some time and I suspect that if you put the engine you will not close down the engine panels.

You can see the age on the molds as you have some flash to clean. And there’s no location tip, as it’s a limited run mold, back when ICM use them

  

So the B-26 C comes with Two Pratt & Whitney R‑2800 engines (27 parts each), offering impressive realism comparable to high-end kits. However the engine gondola panels are not removal. )

 

In the Spitfire you can put the Merlin full exposed.

 

 

As for the instructions of all models despite Spitfire and Mustang are older models kits, the instrucions are in the ICM modern state with only ICM color chart and clear parts indication.

 

 

 

 

On the B-26 instruction is provide a canopy mask templates.

 

         The clear parts, are much better in the B-26 than thety are in the Spitfire and the Mustang, so you can see ICM evolution along the years also in the clear parts. However, all the clear parts have no distortion or bubble but the B-26 ones are more refine and clear.

 

 

While the P-51 model kit does not bring any engine, the Spitfire and the B-26 C gives the modeler that option, but only the spit you can put it in sight.

 

The B-26 C also have a pitot issue on the wing and fuselage, that I mention before when I review the B-26B.

 

 

For the B-26 C, you got a large decal sheet with very good color and definition.

 

 

Despite being a combo box, ICM don’t leave the modeler with a single option in the B-26 C but all 3 options:

 

1.    B-26 C-45-MO 42-107783 “Thumper”, 441^st Bombardment Squadron, 320^th Bombardment Group, France, 1945;

2.   B-26 C-45-MO 42-17534 “Belle Ringer”, 441^st Bombardment Squadron, 320^th Bombardment Group, France, 1945;

 

3.   B-26 C-45-Mo 42-107729 “Stud Duck”, 34th Bombardment Squadron, 17^th Bombardment Group, France, Longvic, April 1945;

 

As for the instructions, typical modern ones from ICM with good location parts indication and color references only by ICM colors.

 

Moving for the little friends, The P-51D and the Spitfire Mk XIV.

 

The P-51 only have a small decal sheet with a single scheme. P. McKennon famous “Ridge Runner”

P-51 D , Maj. P. McKennon, 4^th FG, Spring 1945

 

 

As for the Spitfire, a bigger decal sheet means that you have two schemes:

 

-      Spitfire LF. XVI E, 74 Sqn., Drope, Germany, April 1945.

-      Spitfire LF. XVI E, Sqn. Ldr, K. Pniak (7 victories) OC n.º 308 (Krakov) Sqn. England, Summer 1945

 

Conclusion

 

Priced around €80–€90, the “Conquerors of Europe’s Sky” set offers a substantial value, especially considering the inclusion of three aircraft models being the new B-26 with 3 decals options. A single B-26 cost almost the same thing.

This set, consisting of two older models (Spitfire/Mustang) and a brand-new kit (Marauder), is a beautiful tribute to all those pilots who risked their lives in WWII. Lest we forget!

Highly recommend

 

My truly thanks to ICM for making this combo box!!!