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Finally, the ailerons attach to the wings via tabs, which ensure a solid join to the wing. Unfortunately, the tabs fix both ailerons in the ‘down’ position. The answer to this problem is as simple as snapping the tabs off one aileron and gluing it in the opposite ‘up’ position. Alternatively, both sets of tabs could be removed and the ailerons glued in the neutral position. On balance, even considering the disappointing cockpit, Trumpeter’s 1/32-scale P-40B is still an impressive kit. Construction Construction starts with the engine.

As supplied by Trumpeter, the ends of the pipes are hollowed out but the hole is too shallow to bear close scrutiny. The end of each pipe was drilled deeper before attaching them to the engine block. The balance of construction proved more satisfying than this irksome introduction. The basic engine and cockpit assemblies were quickly completed and test-fitted inside the fuselage halves. The kit-supplied engine looked so good that the decision was taken to display it prominently in the finished kit.

His father served in the First Australian Infantry Force (AIF) during World War I, being wounded on several occasions. His brother joined the Second AIF the same day as Len joined the RAAF. Following additional study at night school and on his own initiative, Len applied for aircrew training during 1943 and graduated as Sergeant Pilot on 1 July 1944. On 14 November 1944, Sergeant Pilot Leonard Waters was posted to 78 Squadron RAAF, flying P-40N Kittyhawks from Noemfoor in New Guinea. 78 Squadron was later based on Morotai, then finally at Tarakan.