Hasegawa 02528 - 1:72 EA-18G Growler VAQ-131 Lancers 2025

Plastic model kit of the electronic warfare aircraft EA-18G Growler “VAQ-131 Lancers 2025” in 1:72 scale

Hasegawa 02528 is a kit for self-assembly representing the American carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft EA-18G Growler. Based on the two-seat F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter, it took over the role of jamming and suppressing the enemy's radar and communications systems in US Navy service.

This is a limited edition with a new decal sheet, representing aircraft of the VAQ-131 “Lancers” electronic attack squadron. The model reproduces the distinctive electronic warfare pods that set the Growler apart from the base Super Hornet.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with airframe parts
• Clear parts for the canopy
• Electronic warfare pods
• Waterslide decal sheet with markings of the VAQ-131 “Lancers” squadron (2025)
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Specifications:

• Scale: 1:72
• Catalogue number: 02528
• Manufacturer: Hasegawa
• Assembled length: approx. 254 mm, wingspan: approx. 189 mm
• Difficulty level: intermediate

Note: The kit does not include glue, paints or modelling tools. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Assembly:

A model of moderate difficulty. The cockpit and seats are best painted before the fuselage is closed. Care should be taken with the assembly of the underwing pods and stores according to the instructions.

Modern US Navy carrier aircraft are usually painted in a two-tone, low-contrast grey scheme; the instructions provide paint suggestions. Decals are best applied over a gloss coat, and the model finished with a satin or matt varnish, with the panels and detail emphasised using a wash.

Tools required:

• Modelling nippers for removing parts from the sprues
• Modelling knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper for cleaning up sprue-gate marks
• Plastic cement
• Brushes in various sizes
• Modelling paints (acrylic or enamel)
• A wash to bring out the detail

About the aircraft – Boeing EA-18G Growler:

The EA-18G Growler is an American carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft developed from the F/A-18F Super Hornet strike fighter. In US Navy service it replaced the older EA-6B Prowler, taking over the jamming of enemy radar and communications and the suppression of enemy air defences.

The Growler retained most of the base aircraft's hardpoints, so it can carry electronic warfare equipment and weapons at the same time. Aircraft of this type operate from carrier decks and form an important part of the protection of strike aviation.

Original aircraft specifications (EA-18G Growler):

• Crew: 2 (pilot and electronic warfare officer)
• Powerplant: two afterburning turbofan engines
• Wingspan: approx. 13.62 m
• Length: approx. 18.31 m
• Maximum speed: approx. Mach 1.8
• Equipment: jamming pods plus anti-radiation and air-to-air missiles

About the manufacturer – Hasegawa:

Hasegawa is a Japanese manufacturer of model kits based in Shizuoka, a city regarded as the centre of the Japanese modelling industry. The company has been active since the 1940s and has developed its range of injection-moulded plastic kits since the 1960s. Hasegawa is best known for its aircraft models in 1:72 and 1:48 scale, valued for finely reproduced, subtly recessed panel lines and good parts fit. A hallmark of the brand is its frequent limited editions with dedicated decal sheets representing specific, often commemorative aircraft. The range also includes ship, vehicle and car models as well as modelling accessories. Hasegawa kits are recognised and available among modellers worldwide.