US A-37A Dragonfly Light Ground-Attack, 1/48 - Trumpeter 02888

The Trumpeter 02888 reproduces the Cessna A-37A Dragonfly, a lightweight American ground-attack aircraft, in the form of a static model kit to be assembled at 1/48. This reference allows you to create a detailed representation of the first A-37A version of the Dragonfly.

The Cessna A-37A Dragonfly

The A-37 Dragonfly is derived from the Cessna T-37 jet trainer. Developed for military missions during the Vietnam War, the A-37A version in particular received a reinforced airframe, more powerful engines, wingtip fuel tanks, hardpoints under the wings, and a 7.62 mm GAU-2B/A rotary machine gun. This compact aircraft is especially popular with enthusiasts of American military aviation from the Cold War era.

The Trumpeter 1/48 scale kit

The kit is made from injection-molded plastic and includes more than 170 parts. Once assembled, the model measures 203 mm in length with a 241 mm wingspan. At 1/48 scale, each dimension of the real aircraft is reduced by a factor of 48—an appropriate format for displaying a light attack aircraft, along with its armament and landing gear.

The box includes seven sprues, a photo-etched sheet, rubber tires, and a metal barrel. The parts let you recreate the cockpit, control surfaces, and the Dragonfly’s characteristic elements. Decals and a painting/decorating guide are included with the assembly.

Assembly and finishing

As with any plastic model kit, assembly requires careful preparation of the parts before gluing. Primer makes it easier to paint and helps you check the joints after sanding. Small photo-etched parts will be easier to handle with fine tweezers and should be attached using an appropriate adhesive.

A meticulous finish can highlight the airframe panel lines, the landing gear, external stores, and the weathering/patina of a tactical support aircraft. Glue, paints, cutting tools, abrasives, and finishing products are required to complete the build.

Technical specifications

• Brand : Trumpeter
• Manufacturer’s reference : 02888
• Catalog reference : 9362888
• Type : static model aircraft kit (assembly required)
• Subject : US A-37A Dragonfly Light Ground-Attack Aircraft
• Scale : 1/48
• Material : injection-molded plastic
• Number of parts : more than 170
• Assembled length : 203 mm
• Wingspan : 241 mm
• Reported contents : 7 sprues, photo-etch, rubber tires, metal barrel, decals and decorating guide