F6F-5 Hellcat “White 115”USN Fighter Squadron Eighty Three VF-83. by Eduard – A Carrier Killer in 1/48 Scale

F6F-5 Hellcat “White 115” by Eduard – Carrier Killer in 1/48

Historical Background – The Hellcat That Dominated the Pacific

The Grumman F6F Hellcat was the United States Navy’s answer to the highly maneuverable Japanese Mitsubishi A6M Zero. Entering service in 1943, it quickly became the backbone of the US carrier fleet in the Pacific Theater. The improved F6F-5 version, introduced in 1944, featured a more powerful engine, better aerodynamics, and improved visibility.

 Over 12,000 Hellcats were built, achieving an astonishing kill ratio of 19:1. The F6F-5 saw service in some of the most decisive battles of WWII and was known for its ruggedness, power, and ease of carrier operation.

The Kit – Eduard’s F6F-5 in 1/48

Eduard delivers one of the best Hellcat kits in 1/48 scale. The surface detail is crisp, the panel lines and rivets are well-rendered, and the fit is excellent. The only minor downside is the limited aftermarket options, as most are designed for the older Hasegawa kit, which doesn’t match Eduard’s level of precision.

Construction – Upgrades and Custom Work

Engine & Cowling Swap

Although the kit cowling is accurate in dimension and shape, I replaced the engine with a Verlinden aftermarket engine, which fit perfectly after careful measurements. This gave a substantial upgrade in visible detail.

Folding Wings – A Scratchbuilt Challenge

Using scale drawings, I carefully cut the wings to simulate the folding mechanism. The build required custom hinges and internal structure inside the wing fold. Additionally, the entire wheel bay was scratchbuilt for added realism.

This step was one of the most complex parts of the build but also the most rewarding.

Painting and Weathering

• Base Color: Gloss Sea Blue FS 35042 – Model Master

• Technique:

  1. Lightened with white and sprayed on raised rivets and panel edges.

  2. Second pass in matte tone for mid-depth.

  3. Third coat included a tiny amount of red for subtle modulation across panels with a fine airbrush needle.

• Weathering:

  • Oil wash: Raw Umber (light and controlled – carrier-based aircraft were kept relatively clean).

  • Exhaust stains: H343 Soot and Model Master FS 33531 Sand over the upper cowling.

  • Dusting: Final pass with Humbrol 155 Matt Brown.

F6F-5 Hellcat Color Chart – Scale Model Paint References