White Ensign Models 1/72 Sunderland Depth Charge Compartment Detail Set First Look

By Michael Benolkin

First Look

White Ensign Models was not content with producing a nice array of resin warships in 1/350 and 1/700 scale, nor even expanding into their Colourcoats range of accurite color paints. Now they've pushed into the realm of photo-etched detail sets with one of the first being a spectacular detail set for the Revell/Germany 1/72 Type VIIB U-Boat.

This this set and two companion sets, White Ensign Models has expanded into aircraft details, with this set targeted for the venerable Airfix 1/72 Short Sunderland flying boat. The Sunderland served the RAF as a long range reconnaissance and anti-submarine platform. Developed from the Empire Class Flying Boat, the Sunderland had an endurance of over 13 hours.

The Airfix kit has been around for quite a while and is a nice replica of this subject. Even in 1/72 scale, the aircraft is quite large with the fuselage measuring in at almost 14.5 inches. With all of this potential, it is only natural that WEM would expand from ships to flying boats.

This set boxes in the depth charge compartment that is visible through the openings in the fuselage sides. As you can see in the image above, the detail etched into these parts is quite nice. In addition to boxing in the compartment, replacement depth charge racks are also included to dress up the dollies that slide out under the wings from inside the compartment.

This set is designed to work with White Ensign Models' Detail Set PE7202 - Exterior Details and PE7206 - Cockpit Details, both of which are also reviewed here on Cybermodeler Online.

As you can see in the photo, the detail set is not complex, but it is thorough and will turn the 'office' of the Sunderland into a scale replica.

My sincere thanks to White Ensign Models for this review sample!