This is my latest build. It represents an M270A1 MLRS Launcher from C BTRY, 1-39 FA (MLRS), 3 ID during the invasion of Iraq, 2003. I was the A BTRY (TAB - Firefinder Radars) commander in the Bn at the time. 1-39 FA is called the Phoenix Bn since it had been activated and deactivated multiple times over the years. The red phoenix with crossed cannons below it was the Bn symbol and was stenciled on all of our vehicles.

It is built using the Dragon M270A1 kit. I also added PE for the radiator grill, engine intake, and a few other pieces from the Royal Model MLRS detail set. I replaced the older, triangle block tracks with a set of newer, square block, indi-link tracks from the Meng M2A3 kit. I also added the GPS antenna on top of the launcher box (green square). The M26 rocket emerging is a rocket from the Dragon Patriot PAC 3 set. They happen to be the same basic size and look close enough. The storage box on top is scratch-built from bass wood sheet.

Most of the decals were made by me on computer decal paper. I also used a few smaller ones from an Echelon kit and the older Dragon M270 kit.

Here it is. Sorry, I didn't take any in-progress pics.











As always, all comments welcomed.

Looks awesome, Gino!

Great work!

Thanks Richard. It was a fun build.

Just out of curiosity what is the purpose of the box on top of the launcher?

The box on top is a storage box. The crew would put their gear, MREs, water bottles, etc. inside of it.

Excellent work Gino!
I like your "in action" display a lot. It looks very dynamic and interesting.

Cheers
Walter

Thanks Walter. I like showing how the vehicles are actually used. I may do a Bradley firing a TOW soon.

Thanks Gino!

MLRS is a thing of beauty!

Outstanding work ! I like a lot the rocket launch with its smoke, congrats Gino ! Is the rocket included in the kit ?

Thanks Alex. The M26 rocket does not come in the kit. It is actually a Patriot PAC-3 missile left over from the Dragon Patriot PAC-3 kit (I reviewed/built it here). The kit includes 4 missiles, but it can only fire one at at time, so you can only use one. The missile is basically the same size and looks like the M26 MLRS rocket, so it works for me.

Nice work, Gino

Thanks Jason.