Royal Australian Navy A-6E Intruder "Operation Sheep"

[BradG]

In the late 60's, Communism was the threat around the world and with it looking increasingly likely that New Zealand would fall to a Communist dictator, Australia decided that it needed to bolster it's carrier strike force. With the retirement of the Sea Venom ans Sea Fury, strike aircraft were limited so we purchased two squadrons worth of A-6 Intruders from the US, freeing up the Skyhawks to perform the dedicated CAP duties they were optimised for. In 1970 New Zealand fell to Communism and Australia, unwilling to have a 'Cuban Missile Crisis' in this part of the world launched Operation Sheep, the invasion of New Zealand. A-6's from HMAS Melbourne deployed to soften up the landing areas and interdict all forces moving around the target area. Australia's Intruders retained the outer pylon from earlier models that was wired for air to air missiles, this aircraft scoring a Skyhawk kill over the beach head. After a successful invasion and brief fight, the dictatorship was overthrown and democracy returned to the country, thanks in part to RAN Intruders.

The kit is the old Fujimi model in 1/48, with weapons and bomb racks/missile rails added from the spares box. Decals come from a Red Roo Gannet set.

[RayS]

Noice!

Now where did I put my 1/72 Intruder and Gannet decals

[Graeme H]

Great rendition there Brad, like it a lot

[Wedgetail]

A great bit of alternative history there Brad, and a top looking A-6E Intruder to go with it.
You're out of the gates early this year mate. You should be able to easily eclipse your last years tally of built kits.
Cheers,
Wayne.

[Adam the Akrodude]

Very cool! I think the RAN bought a much larger carrier around that time though didn't they to launch the A-6s?

[Camthalion]

Looks good. Colour scheme is very nice