F-111A Aardvark, 1/48 - Hobby Boss 80348

The F-111A Aardvark Hobby Boss 80348 is a military aircraft model kit to be assembled at 1/48. It recreates the first operational version of the General Dynamics F-111, an American twin-engine aircraft with variable geometry, designed for all-weather attack missions.

The F-111A Aardvark

The F-111 is one of the most distinctive fighter aircraft from the Cold War era. Its silhouette stands out in particular for its variable-sweep wings, which can be deployed or retracted depending on the flight phase. The F-111A variant served with the US Air Force and took part in the early operational deployments of this family of aircraft.

At a 1/48 scale, this subject lets you build an imposing replica of an iconic American strike aircraft—especially appealing for collectors interested in late 20th-century American military aviation.

The Hobby Boss 80348 model kit

This Hobby Boss reference is an injection-molded plastic kit consisting of 541 parts. Once assembled, the model measures 483 mm in length with a 400 mm wingspan. The 1/48 format highlights the complex lines of the F-111A, its elongated fuselage, and the distinctive wing configuration.

The box includes decals to create two US Air Force display options. Decals should be applied to a smooth and glossy surface to help them integrate properly, before applying any protective clear coat if desired.

Assembly and finishing

Careful preparation of the parts, removing mold lines, and doing test fits are useful steps when assembling an aircraft model of this size. Applying a suitable primer before painting helps with checking the seams and achieving a smooth, even finish.

Painting can be enhanced with weathering techniques suited to military aircraft: light washes along structural panel lines, tonal variations on panels, and well-controlled signs of use. A plastic model glue, paints, finishing putty, fine sandpaper, and precision tools are relevant additions for the build.

Technical specifications

• Brand: Hobby Boss
• Reference: 80348
• Type: military aircraft model kit to be assembled
• Subject: F-111A Aardvark
• Scale: 1/48
• Material: plastic
• Number of parts: 541
• Length (assembled): 483 mm
• Wingspan: 400 mm
• Decals: 2 US Air Force markings