AH-1G Cobra and M8A1 US Landing Mat LIMITED EDITION!, 1/48 - ICM 48298

The ICM reference 48298 is an assembly model kit at 1/48 bringing together an attack helicopter AH-1G Cobra and a ground element M8A1 US Landing Mat. This limited edition makes it possible to depict an American Cobra on a section of metallic landing surface, to create a scene inspired by the forward bases used during the Vietnam War.

The subject depicted

The AH-1G Cobra was developed as a specialized attack helicopter and saw combat starting in 1967. Its narrow silhouette, tandem crew seating, and short wings carrying armament make it one of the most iconic American military helicopters of this period.

The M8A1 US Landing Mat reproduces a metal surface used by US Army engineer units to set up landing zones and airfields as close as possible to operational areas. The plates could be assembled in rows or in a checkerboard pattern to form suitable surfaces for military aircraft.

The ICM 48298 model kit

This set combines the AH-1G Cobra with an M8A1 surface section, providing a display-ready base that is directly suitable for a diorama or for staging on a shelf. The 1/48 scale offers a good balance between the model’s presence, painting work, and the ability to add extra landscaping details.

The kit includes 169 + 64 parts. The dimensions given for the model are 295 x 71 mm. Four AH-1G decorations are offered:

• AH-1G 66-15262 « Hulk », Company D, 227th AHB, 1st Cavalry Division, Phuoc Vinh, summer 1970 ;
• AH-1G 68-17068 « Cindy Ann », 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, Phuoc Vinh, August 1970 ;
• AH-1G 68-17077 « Corsair », Company D, 227th AHB, 1st Cavalry Division, Lai Khe, 1970 ;
• AH-1G 68-15101, H Troop, 10th Cavalry, Pleiku, autumn 1972.

Assembly and finishing

Combining the helicopter and the M8A1 surface encourages careful attention to the final presentation. Using a suitable primer generally helps achieve uniform paint coverage on the parts of an assembly model kit. Painting the metal surface can be enhanced with tone variations, signs of wear, and progressive weathering to strengthen the realism of the display.

Applying the decals is best done on a smooth, glossy surface, before applying a suitable protective varnish for the desired finish. Model glue, paints, primer, cutting tools, fine abrasives, and weathering products are useful additions for assembling and bringing this 1/48 scene to life.

Technical features

• Brand : ICM
• Reference : 48298
• Type : military helicopter model kit with landing surface
• Subject : AH-1G Cobra and M8A1 US Landing Mat
• Scale : 1/48
• Period depicted : after 1950, Vietnam War
• Number of parts : 169 + 64
• Dimensions provided : 295 x 71 mm
• Decors : 4 options for AH-1G Cobra