Curtiss Wright VZ-7 Aerial Platform VTOL (1958)

SCALE: 1/72

INITIAL RELEASE: 2004

MEDIUM: Resin

RARITY: (2)

 

 

 

 

VZ-7 Test "Hop"

 

ABOUT THE DESIGN

ABOUT THE KIT

In the 1950s, the U.S. Army developed several prototype "flying jeeps" designed to carry small amounts of men and machinery over rough terrain.  In 1957, the Army contracted with Curtiss-Wright to develop one such machine; the result was this one-man "aerial platform" that achieved lift via four horizontally mounted propellers.  Curtiss-Wright delivered two prototypes in 1958 and while the machines proved to be very easy to handle and maneuver, neither was able to meet the altitude and speed requirements called for in the Army's contract.  The program was cancelled in the mid-1960s when it became abundantly clear that the job for which "flying jeeps" were intended could be  performed more easily and efficiently by conventional helicopters like the Huey HU-1D.

Anigrand Craftswork of Hong Kong specializes high-quality models of  exotic, off-beat subjects, and this spindly little 1950s-era experimental is no exception.  In 1/72 scale, this model is a mere 3.25 inches long, yet the casting of the pieces is superb.  Flash is minimal and the detail, for its size, is excellent.

This model was built from an original issue.

To purchase this model, visit Dmcmodels at www.resin-plane-kits.com.

 

Original Box Art

 

X-Planes & Prototypes

1900-1930s

1940s

1950s

1960s

1970s

1980s

1990s

2000 and Beyond

Home  X-Planes   Concept Aircraft   Real Space   Concept Spacecraft   Pop Culture   Grab Bag