The ‘Bicomando’ version of the Italian World War Two fighter is now available in 1/32 scale.
As part of its extensive array of 1/32 aircraft subjects, Special Hobby launched its FIAT G.50 series in 2013. Several variants have been issued, including the bis and Series II. Indeed, the firm recently re-released its Finnish G.50-II, but the parts have also been adapted to emulate the two-seat version, the G.50B ‘Bicomando’. This sub-type was created by installing a second cockpit where the machine guns sat on the standard fighter airframe.
Special Hobby’s kit differs little from its single-seat predecessors, save for the wholly obvious addition of the second cockpit. This is provided via a new set of fuselage halves, enough components for the second ‘office’, and a repeat of the existing photo-etched brass fret – which offers mostly seat accoutrements.
Above: New fuselage halves help in part to replicate the two-seat G.50 variant.
Decals for four different airframes are supplied and there’s quite the variety of operator:
• Black 136, M.M.6425, Advanced Flying School, Regia Aeronautica, Italy, 1941 (mottle camouflage, yellow engine cowling, white wing/fuselage bands)
• Red 3510, M.M.6477, 1. Jato, 1. Skupina, 1. Zrakoplovna Luka, Croatian Air Force, Zagreb-Borongaj, Croatia, June 1942 (olive green over grey)
• M.M unknown, Luftwaffe, Italian Republic, mid-1943 - early 44 (olive green over grey)
• M.M.6483, 3ᵃ Squadriglia, 2֯ Gruppo Scuola Volo, Aeronautica Militaire, Brindisi, Italy, 1946 (overall aluminium)
As with the firm’s other G.50s, a complete resin engine is also supplied. The kit costs €48.60 direct from Special Hobby, but it’s also available in the UK through Hannants.
