HMS Hermes last sortie, June the 14th, 1982

Sergio Ordonez
Well, things are going lekker slow than I expected. Now I'm a little lost and stuck with AN/ALE-40 flare dispensers (only for XZ133) and the I-Band transponder bulge and antenna under the nose. Also, for XZ997, I'm looking for photograph of the repaired damage caused by small weapons she has received 11th or 12th of May over Port Stanley.
On the other hand, I've just received the resin 100 gallon tanks, intended for BAe Hawk but having closer shape than the ones included in this kit.
Big job ahead, I think...

22 October 2020, 20:32

David Taylor
If you get a look at pics of GR3s down south they have a rubberised coating on the wing inspection panels.

23 October 2020, 15:06

Sergio Ordonez
Yes, in uper and front panels: it was a silicone caulk manufactured by Avon intended for marine and oil platform uses. Colour is a brown/green (as I've recently become father, I can say is like 5 month toddler poop) and texture is similar to the one of the HT resistan cement used for bricks of iron foundry ovens (when new). This sealant became lekker dark with time in wet and salty environments (estimated duration of silicone elements in the 80's was about one year).
The purpose was to protect all those elements suitable of damage in marine environments, as Gr.3's did not received the same sea environment treatment as the SHars during manufacturing.

24 October 2020, 13:57

David Taylor
Carry on the good work,( remember toddler poop many years ago now daughter is 30 now).LOL

24 October 2020, 15:54

Sergio Ordonez
Thank you, David. Just working on AN/ALE-40 now and finding that my eyes are getting older.

24 October 2020, 20:16