Academy 9-12637 - ACADEMY 1/144 USAF EC-121 WARNING STAR

1/144 USAF EC-121 Warning Star

This model kit accurately recreates the iconic Cold War early warning and surveillance aircraft. Powered by four Wright R-3350 Cyclone engines, this plane was a pioneering mass-produced early warning platform used extensively by the US Air Force from the 1950s through the Vietnam War. The kit features detailed parts and offers four different marking options, allowing modelers to capture its distinctive design and historical significance.

- Cold War era US early warning aircraft
- Powered by four Wright R-3350 Cyclone engines
- Accurate panel lines and details
- Four marking options included
- Glue and paint required

Highly Detailed Early Warning Aircraft Model

Highly detailed and true-to-life, this Academy 1/144 USAF EC-121 Warning Star model faithfully captures the unique design and complex avionics of the Cold War early warning aircraft. Built on the Lockheed Super Constellation airframe, it showcases the iconic four Wright R-3350 Cyclone engines and authentic surface details from this pioneering surveillance plane.

Delicate Panel Line Expression

The model kit includes finely engraved panel lines that highlight the aircraft's complex surface details, enhancing realism and scale accuracy. These precise lines bring out the contours and structural features of the EC-121, making it an excellent choice for modelers who appreciate detailed craftsmanship. With four marking options included, the kit allows for authentic customization of this legendary early warning aircraft.

Four Marking Options

Background Information

The Lockheed EC-121 Warning Star was a US Cold War early warning and surveillance aircraft. The drive was provided by four engines Wright R-3350 Cyclone 3400 hp each. The first flight of this machine took place in October 1949. In the years 1953-1958 serial production took place, which led to the creation of about 230 aircraft of this type. The machine did not have a permanent on-board armament.

The EC-121 Warning Star was the first true mass-produced early warning aircraft in the history of aviation. The demand for such machines was submitted by the USAAF and the US Navy shortly after the end of World War II, and due to the avant-garde (at that time) of the entire project, the machine did not enter production until 1953. In order to shorten the research and development time, it was decided to adapt the Lockheed Super Constellation transport plane to the new needs. It was modernized mainly by adding a very extensive avionics and radars: search (AN / APS-95) and air (AN / APS-103). During its long service, which lasted until 1982, the machine was modernized and various electronic solutions were tested on it. The only user of these planes was the United States.