Vought OS2U Kingfisher: The Tireless “Observer” of World War II
The Vought OS2U Kingfisher is one of the most recognizable American observation aircraft of World War II. It was designed in the late 1930s by Vought-Sikorsky for use by U.S. Navy ships and was distinguished by its maneuverability and durability in rescue, reconnaissance, and artillery support operations.
Historical context
With its first flight in 1938, the Kingfisher became the U.S. Navy’s primary observation aircraft. It operated either as a floatplane for landing or as a wheeled system for use on land bases. Kingfishers undertook countless missions, from patrolling Pacific islands to rescuing pilots who had fallen overboard. Simple, reliable, and robust, it was an integral part of the American war machine at sea.
Technical specifications
Crew: 2 (pilot & observer/gunner)
Engine: Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior (450 hp)
Length: 10.3 m
Wingspan: 10.94 m
Maximum Speed: 266 km/h
Range: 1,560 km
Armament:
• 1 x 7.62 mm front machine gun
• 1 x 7.62 mm rear machine gun
• 2 x 100 lb bomb capacity
Why the Kingfisher is a must for modelers
The clean design, large surfaces and distinctive silhouette make the OS2U Kingfisher an excellent base for realistic weathering. The worn metal parts from the salt water, the detailed cockpit and the special decals from the World War II era are points that you can highlight on your model.
Kits and Upgrades in All Scales
To get you started on your own Kingfisher project, I have prepared a complete list of kits and aftermarket products for all scales:
Kit:1/32 Scale
✅Kitty Hawk 1/32 Vought OS2U Kingfisher – excellent detail and etchings.
Upgrades (PE & Resin):
Eduard Big Ed for Kitty Hawk kit – includes photo-etched cockpit panels, seats, and exterior details.
Kit: 1/48 Scale
✅ Revell-Monogram 1/48 OS2U Kingfisher– classic kit with good fit.
✅ Academy 1/48 OS2U-3 Kingfisher – newer version with cleaner parts and better fit.
Upgrades (PE & Resin):
Eduard PE set for Revell/Academy kit – interior details & seats.
Quickboost Resin engine & camshaft – for realistic nose.
Kit: 1/72 Scale
✅ Airfix 1/72 OS2U Kingfisher – ideal for beginners, simple assembly.
✅ Valom 1/72 OS2U-1 Kingfisher – limited edition, resin and photo-etched.
Enhancements (PE & Resin):
Eduard Zoom set for the Airfix kit – adds cockpit detail.
CMK Resin engine & floats – for more realistic performance.
Accessories & Paints
For a realistic finish to your Kingfisher, you can use:
AK Interactive US Navy WWII Aircraft set– all the necessary colors for fuselage and floats.
Tamiya Panel Line Accent Colors – for wash on seams and rivets.
Ammo by Mig pigments – for creating salt, rust and dirt effects.
Curtiss SC-1 Seahawk By:Gary Wickham