Arma Hobby 1:72 FM-2 Wildcat Training Cats Limited Edition

The Arma Hobby 1:72 FM-2 Wildcat “Training Cats” Limited Edition is a highly detailed injection-moulded plastic kit representing the Grumman FM-2 Wildcat, a late-war US Navy carrier fighter used primarily aboard escort carriers for convoy protection and anti-submarine operations.

About this edition

The “Training Cats” Limited Edition focuses on post-operational and training-unit aircraft, showcasing FM-2 Wildcats used in stateside and carrier training environments after frontline service. These aircraft often carried distinctive, more varied marking schemes compared to combat units, making the kit especially attractive for display variety.

The FM-2 itself was the final and most refined Wildcat variant, featuring a more powerful engine and improved performance at low altitude—perfect for escort carrier operations in the Atlantic and Pacific theatres.

Kit features

✔ 1:72 scale injection-moulded plastic kit
✔ Limited Edition release with special marking options
✔ Highly detailed surface engraving and panel lines
✔ Multiple US Navy training squadron decal schemes
✔ Optional canopy and cockpit detail parts
✔ Fine reproduction of FM-2-specific airframe differences
✔ Designed for accurate late-WWII carrier aircraft builds

Marking options

This edition typically includes multiple schemes representing:

• Carrier Aircraft Service Units (CASU)

• Naval Air training and modification units

• Late-war escort carrier aircraft

• Post-war evaluation and training aircraft

These varied options make it ideal for collectors or builders wanting something beyond standard combat Wildcats.

Skill level

Intermediate

Best suited for modellers with some experience due to:

• fine cockpit detail

• small-scale alignment work

• decal precision on naval markings

It is still very builder-friendly thanks to Arma Hobby’s modern tooling quality.

Recommended finishing approaches

✔ US Navy tri-colour or Gloss Sea Blue schemes
✔ Light operational weathering (salt, exhaust staining)
✔ Subtle carrier wear effects
✔ Clean training aircraft presentation builds
✔ Display-focused “factory fresh” finishes

Ideal for

• WWII US Navy aviation enthusiasts

• Carrier aircraft collectors

• Late-war Pacific theatre modellers

• Training and non-combat scheme builds

• 1:72 scale detail-focused aircraft builders

Summary

The Arma Hobby FM-2 Wildcat “Training Cats” Limited Edition is a refined, detail-rich kit that showcases the final evolution of the famous Wildcat in a less commonly modelled training and post-operational context—offering a great mix of historical interest and display flexibility.