With Italeri’s 1/72 new-tool kit on the horizon – and the existence of various others in major scales – the Austrian publisher’s new book on the punchy AMX fighter-bomber is welcome indeed.
Overlooked by mainstream firms for many years, until Kinetic released its 1/48 styrene examples, the building of AMX models has largely fallen to the realm of boutique resin kits… particularly in 1/72 scale. While Kinetic’s kits are respectable (and there have since been 1/48 kits by Hobby boss), if you build exclusively in 1/72 you’ll be eagerly awaiting Italeri’s recently announced AMX, due later this year.
Regardless of your chosen scale, a good reference is invaluable… and Harpia Publishing’s new softback work on the type offers plenty of background and photographic cues on the AMX. Inevitably,it begins by describing how two nations – Brazil and Italy – looked to update their air forces with a light fighter-bomber that could accomplish roles such as close air support and photo-reconnaissance. Through serendipity and a shared need, the two countries jointly developed the AMX; it’s a type that has exuded little glamour, but is highly capable and is much loved by the crews that have flown it.
A multi-faceted approach
This publication melds well-researched narrative and personal accounts with excellent imagery, showing both Brazilian and Italian airframes throughout their careers. AMXs from the latter nation are described in detail first, the text detailing entry into service, operational/combat flying (Balkans, Afghanistan, Libya), user units and capabilities. The same treatment is afforded to Brazilian examples and, throughout the focus on both countries’ AMXs, the photos offer plenty for modellers, from colour schemes and weathering to weapons and other stores carriage.
There are also illustrations of unit badges and production lists, but arguably even more useful is the selection of 35 colour profiles, for inspiration and detail for any airframe you choose to emulate. While the AMX now equips just a handful of units, it has delivered sterling service and remains a fascinating modelling subject. Certainly, aftermarket decals will begin to appear once Italeri’s new kit hits the shelves and, armed with Harpia’s handy reference, fans of the type can have a ball producing worthy replicas. The 146-page book costs £28.95 and is available in the UK via Casemate Publishing.
Read about Harpia's book Modern USMC Airpower
AMX
Brazilian-Italian fighter bomber
By: João Paulo Zeitoun Moralez
Format: 281 x 212mm
ISBN: 978-1-9503940-8-1
