ICM 1/72 CH-54A Tarhe (72001)

This review will tell you more about ICM 1/72 CH-54A Tarhe (72001). Yes, we are finally getting "reduced" version of the big helicopter. Original release came in 1/35, and it takes a lot of space in the finished state. Well, this one should be more compact, but still quite large for 1/72 typical project. For me it will be interesting to see what is actually copied here, and if there are any new features thanks to the scale change. Overall packaging is typical for this brand, so all parts are packed into resealable bags. In total there are 338 parts which should assemble into a model with 376mm length and 271mm main rotor. Yes, dimensions are still quite impressive, so let's open the box and take a closer look together.

By the way, here you can read review with a bigger scale brother.
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Watch this video-review where I show all parts even closer.

First frame is filled with the mix of parts. You will find here cockpit floor, landing gear legs and even large internal spars which will be needed for the proper structure.

Note that external features are quite generous, even though in some places it will require careful brushwork. Rivets are also here, and you can see it on the next photo.

Whole frame is given for fuselage panels and overall parts division is the same as what we saw on the bigger release. Such design should work fine, and I don't think you will have any issues.

It also means that front cab is divided into panels according to the panel lines, and you don't have to worry about awkward gaps.

This frame comes in two, as ICM provides main rotor blades here as well as landing gear wheels. There are also a lot of tiny parts which will require installation with tweezers.

Installation of those should be easy, but definitely needs some time to get everything in place. Molding quality looks great even on the smallest ones here.

Clear frame is packed into separate plastic bag. Molding quality is also fine, and ICM provides masks template in the assembly manual.

Decals sheet is not that big, but you will get all necessary symbols for four markings which you can see below. Printing quality is also fine, cockpit decals are included, but there are no decals for the seatbelts.

Assembly manual is typical for this brand. I show all pages in the video-review.

New helicopter should be already available for purchase. In my opinion it is a great pick for those who didn't have space for the previous release. Overall quality looks great, and parts count is still reasonable. Yes, in some areas you will have to work with tweezers, but it should be worth it. Moreover, ICM gives several assembly options, what should be handy for some build ideas.

Get this and other kits in Modelimex webshop.