1:700 U.S.S. Arkansas CGN-41 Carson 727124 500727124

The 178m-long USS Arkansas (CGN-41) was a nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser of the US Navy that was commissioned in 1980. Her primary mission was to use her Harpoon, SM-2MR and ASROC missiles, Phalanx 20mm guns and Mk 46 torpedoes against air, surface and submarine threats to defend aircraft carrier task forces. Additionally, CGN-41 also carried Tomahawk cruise missiles. Because Arkansas was nuclear-powered, she was able to keep pace with similarly propelled carriers. Her first tour of duty was off the coast of Lebanon supporting the multinational force in late 1982. In 1986 USS Arkansas also deployed to the coast of Libya in the wake of US strikes against the country in retaliation for terrorist actions. The 9,473-ton ship was eventually decommissioned in July 1998.

Not so long ago a 1/700 scale replica of the USS Virginia (Item No.7090) joined Dragon’s Sea Power lineup of model kits. That release was significant as it was the series’ first modern subject, which obviously meant all the parts were brand new toolings. Now the Virginia’s sister ship has joined Dragon’s fleet. Although the kit doesn’t have any new parts, it does contain all the appropriate markings via Cartograf decals to depict USS Arkansas. This impressive kit is finely detailed - for example, the superstructure carries fine detail such as hoses and ladders molded in place. The bridge itself is a product of a three-directional slide mold, and a generous collection of photo-etched parts like radar antennas and railings provides finesse. To exhibit USS Arkansas, the modeler has the option of building a full-hull or waterline-hull version.