I hit a mental block a few months ago on two of my works in progress.
I spotted an old copy of 'Model Boat' magazine with an article about a Vietnam era
mini aircraft carrier. The plans were by Glynn Guest, renowned model boat builder.
Called an A.T.C.H. Armoured Troop Carrying Helicopter landing pad. It allowed troops &
supplies to be transported nearer to possible landing grounds, It also allowed refuelling and
re-arming of the helicopters without having to return to their main bases. Casualties could also
be retrieved to these mobile bases.
The plans I had seen were very basic 1/48 stand off scale (about 30ft should be ok)
I decided from the start that I wanted rudders instead of the differential steering of the plans.
I also wanted to recess the prop shafts as per the real vessels, little did I know how much internal
space I would lose going this route.
Also I differed from the plans with regard to materials used, I wanted to use just what I had in my stash.
Although the basic structure is all balsa wood, I covered this in plasticard as it is a medium I enjoy
working with, and I had plenty in stock.
This also allowed me to scribe and rivet where appropriate.
Although not historically correct, it does represent a military force that was not really portrayed very
much during the Vietnam conflict.
The Brown Water Navy.
A book I also read about the time I saw the Model Boats article was 'Brown Water Black Beret,' a very interesting
story of some of the history of this small Navy and those who served in it.
This is my take on the A.T.C.H.
Part one is the basic build.