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1/350 AN/SPS-49 Radar
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November 2025 |
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| The AN/SPS-49 is a long-range, two-dimensional air search radar developed by Raytheon for the US Navy. It was first introduced into service in 1975 and provided naval vessel with long-range air surveillance, offering contact bearing and range. It has since been used on a wide variety of combatants in US and allied navies. | |||||||||
| THE PARTS | |||||||||
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The
Swordfish Models AN/SPS-49 Radar come printed on a raft with a multitude of trees
to support the lattice antenna. Like other Starfish issues, this accessory comes
in a clear, plastic clamshell package attached with a disk of clear adhesive. I
found the parts attached quite firmly, but a squirt of rubbing alcohol allowed the
raft detach nicely- and after drying, the disk was sticky again.
Photos just can't do justice to this accessory; the lattice work is so incredibly fine and delicate, simply removing the radar from the trees will be a challenge. I found the trees were removed easiest with an ultrasonic cutter, then a fresh scalpel. I would not use nippers, for fear of transferring the shock into adjacent details. The parabolic reflector of the radar appears a little bit undersized, but has the proper number of supports. The feed horn emitter looks great. |
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| CONCLUSIONS | |||||||||
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The
set of two AN/SPS-49 Radar Antenna runs for €9.50, which is approximately $11.00
US. They would be a great accessory for any Cold War US ship- or any ship still in
service that is still equipped. Highly recommended. Thanks to Swordfish Models for
providing the review sample.
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