Trumpeter 01616 RA-5C Vigilante (1/72) – Plastic Model Kit

Trumpeter 01616 RA-5C Vigilante is a precisely crafted 1:72 scale plastic reconnaissance aircraft model, designed for demanding model aircraft enthusiasts. The kit depicts the American carrier-based strategic reconnaissance aircraft RA-5C Vigilante, one of the fastest carrier aircraft in the history of U.S. aviation.

• Scale: 1/72
• Operator country: United States of America
• Operational use: US Navy aircraft carriers
• Material: high-quality polystyrene plastic
• Length of finished model: 317 mm
• Wingspan: 137 mm
• Number of parts: precise multi-part sprues
• Included in the kit: decals for three liveries, clear cockpit canopy
• Category: plastic model kit

Historical Background

The RA-5C Vigilante is the reconnaissance version of the supersonic North American A-5 attack aircraft, developed in the late 1950s for the United States Navy. The aircraft gained popularity as a long-range reconnaissance platform, used primarily during the Vietnam War (1960s-70s – Cold War era). These planes carried out dangerous missions over heavily defended areas, providing critical intelligence data to the US Navy and allied forces.

Model Features

The Trumpeter kit is highly accurate – with a meticulously reproduced fuselage, distinct panel lines and surface details, finely rendered landing gear bays, and a detailed cockpit section with a clear canopy. The model is aimed at intermediate to advanced modelers, offering a satisfying level of detail. The included decals allow you to build authentic color schemes of units operating from carrier decks. Due to the number of small parts and advanced details, this model is recommended for those with some aircraft modeling experience.

Product Evaluation

This kit is especially recommended for collectors and naval aviation enthusiasts, as well as modelers interested in the Cold War era. It offers realistic details and extensive upgrade potential. The model's build difficulty level is rated at 3/5 (intermediate). The kit does not include glue or paints – these must be purchased separately.