FFG-36 USS Underwood started

 The styro foam is being glued to the base for the USS Underwood. 

I had to glue the hull together to mark the base cutout. I have ordered the Pontos photo etch upgrade for this kit. This diorama is for a fellow retired sailor who works for me. This is the ship he has the fondest memories of being on.

U-575 UPDATE

 U-575, the diorama base has its base coat of black paint applied. The TBM Avenger assembly has started.

I will add some cockpit details and a pilot to the plane since it will be in flight. I will also add rockets under the wings as the plane shot these after its first pass.

USS Chicago 10 May 1997 Complete

Fletcher Class Completed

Figures for Chicago

There are 64 1/350 scale figures on this, and they are working some even have mops swabbing! The Camera cannot focus on these and I will have to use a magnifying glass to work with them. Insane!

Fletcher Progress

 Rigging being added

 Covers for the searchlights and other optical equipment will be covered, applied tissue paper, then will paint the covers.

 Anchor chains and chain securing mechanisms applied

Overall view of the Model

Fletcher nearing completion (in items left to complete not necessarily in time)

 The man overboard life lines are now stored in the racks around the boat. Made from Black thread white glue blobs painted white to simulate the floats.

 No particular detail here, but manning the ship with scale figures needs to start. I have made some molds and need to start casting figures. I plan on also trying to build them from scratch. I will need at least 15 to 20 figures I think to bring the ship to life.

 Bow crash is complete, I need to order additional anchor chain and make all the anchor chain securing details add the jack staff and the bow of the model will be complete.

 Depth Charge racks and railings being installed.

After much anguish and frustration I completed adding all of the photo etch parts to the 20 MM Oerlikon antiaircraft cannons and mounted them on the ship.