Kit: Amodel [Poland] Modeler: Supawat Putthitornworasit OCT'2013
History: First prototype of amphibia plane rose into the sky in Oct 1947,Very well of speed characteristics were ensured by 2 x10 cylinder engines R-1820-76A, With 1,425 Hp. each., After the test program,U.S.Navy has adopted new hydroplan for armament.First serial amphibia were produced by Grumman company in June 1949 in SA-16A version (Search Amphibia). In January 1956 new version SA-16B was built the larger wing-span. Hydroplanes were actively used during the Korea war and in Vietnam. After long patrolling, additional fuselage tank and x2 suspended vessels under the wing were installed-this allowed to prolong the flight, total duration being 12-14 Hr. In Korea and in Vietnam crews of amphibia managed to save lifts of 229 pilots. In May 1961 new modification of series HU-16B with new big radar AN/ASP-88, with antenna that could be removed to the tail part and additional search equipment has arrived for armament.In total 464 aircraft were built in various modifications
Static model kits
