PSP Airfield & USN/RN Escort Carrier Deck

This time Arma Hobby came out with something rather different – diorama bases for your 1:72 aircraft models. Let’s take a look.

Disclaimer

The review sample was kindly provided by the manufacturer. Thanks, Arma Hobby.

Background

The “FM-1 & FM-2 Wildcat” double released at the end of 2021 by Arma Hobby included (in addition to the 1:72 scale models mentioned in the title, of course) a rather unusual bonus – a pair of laser-engraved plywood bases mimicking fragments of an escort aircraft carrier's deck (see review). The interest it attracted (as well as complaints about the impossibility of buying these accessories separately) didn't went unnoticed by the manufacturer. Although we had to wait a bit, two brand-new (not a repeat of those from the mentioned two-pack) bases finally arrived.

Bases

First one, titled “PSP Airfield” comes with catalogue number 70059, while item 70060 is the “USN/RN Escort Carrier Deck”. Both in 1:72 scale of course.

The manufacturer used simple but quite neat cardboard envelope packaging, which contain a single stand made of plastic. The display area is a 152x152mm square and the height of the item is 5.5mm.

“PSP Airfield” replicates the surface of a temporary runaway made of PSP (perforated steel planking), also known as Marston Mat. A solution used during the Second World War by the US.

“USN/RN Escort Carrier Deck” is, you guess it – a section of an Allied escort aircraft carrier deck. Compared to the plywood stands available back in the day with the Wildcat combo – definitely looks duller.

In both cases, the recessed lines marking the individual surface details run parallel to the edge of the base, which may not be to everyone's taste.

As a bonus, you get access to a 3D file with several accessories that can be used to spice up the presentation of your model. Of course as long as you have a suitable resin printer, or at least access to one.

What you do not find in any of the packaging is any tips on how to paint these bases. Instead, a QR code printed on the sleeve points to the articles on the manufacturer's website.

Summary

New accessories from Arma Hobby are certainly an interesting proposition for modellers wanting to present their models in a slightly more appealing way. The fitting ones, of course.

Nice.

MMXXIV