Boeing E-3 (AWACS) Sentry 1/200 Scale Diecast Metal Model by Amercom

1:200 Scale Diecast Metal - Boeing E-3B (AWACS) Length: 8.75"  Wingspan: 9”

This Sentry model has its landing gear modeled in the extended position and is fixed. A display stand with information about the particular model is included.

At a 1/200 scale, this model is compatible with the airline models (it is basically a 707). What is interesting is that the cockpit windshield in this model is actually made of clear plastic with very detailed painting. I mention this because in the airline models it is usually just painted on. 

This is really a "no-play" model or a "display-only" model. It is mostly metal and very heavy. It also has a number of antennas which look great but are very fragile. If you have small kids that like to play with your models, save yourself some frustration (and money) and wait till later to get a model like this one. The box is labeled as not suitable for children under 14.

The maker of this model, Amercom, did a good job with this model, specifically the color scheme and the markings are very crisp and clear. The panel lines and hatches are very nicely done (engraved). 

The packaging of these models is very minimal, nothing more than a simple blister pack with the model sandwiched between two transparent plastic shells. The packaging is really best described as "disposable"; although this is done in part to keep costs down, it nevertheless keeps the model safe and secure.The packaging might be low cost, but it is quite sturdy and serves its purpose well.

The pack measures 10 inches by 10 inches by 3.25 inches.

The Boeing E-3 Sentry, commonly known as AWACS, is an airborne early warning and control(AEW&C) aircraft developed by Boeing as the prime contractor. Derived from the Boeing 707, it provides all-weather surveillance, command, control and communications, and is used by the United States Air Force (USAF), NATO, Royal Air Force (RAF), French Air Force and Royal Saudi Air Force. The E-3 is distinguished by the distinctive rotating radar dome above the fuselage. Production ended in 1992 after 68 aircraft had been built.

In the mid-1960s, the USAF was seeking an aircraft to replace its piston-engined Lockheed EC-121 Warning Star, which had seen service for over a decade. After issuing preliminary development contracts to three companies, the USAF picked Boeing to construct two airframes to test Westinghouse Electric's and Hughes's competing radars. Both radars used Pulse-Doppler technology, with Westinghouse's design emerging as the contract winner. Testing on the first production E-3 began in October 1975.

The first USAF E-3 was delivered in March 1977, and during the next seven years, a total of 34 aircraft were manufactured. NATO, as a single identity, also had eighteen aircraft manufactured, basing them in Germany. The E-3 was also sold to the United Kingdom (seven) and France (four) andSaudi Arabia (five, plus eight E-3 derived tanker aircraft). In 1991, by which time the last aircraft had been delivered, E-3s participated in Operation Desert Storm, playing a crucial role of directingCoalition aircraft against the enemy. Throughout the aircraft's service life, numerous upgrades were performed to enhance its capabilities. In 1996, Westinghouse Electric was acquired by Northrop before being renamed Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems, which currently supports the E-3's radar.