I still remember building the Matchbox kit, and how difficult it was for a beginning modeller to get the wings and struts to align, but the thing had a strange beauty in its ugliness. If I ever decide to go back to WW2 modelling, Walrus will definitely be one of the first subjects (and a nice excuse to learn rigging this time over). Therefore, inspiration strikes:
- Just how big an engine could you mount on the Walrus without the power egg tearing itself free from the mountings? Puller instead of pusher propeller?
- Since the Swordfish could carry RP-3 rails, could the Walrus too? Upgun it too in order to better fight the U-Boot menace? More bombs than it could possibly carry?
- Radar-equipped Walrus, there's plenty of room for scopes'n'stuff in the cabin?
- Vought is too busy building Corsairs to build Kingfishers, so US Navy adopts the Walrus, which is just an excuse to see it in the tri-tone camouflage?
- Captured Walrus in KG200 markings?
- Walrus in Korean War markings, pressed again into service for air-sea rescue role since helicopters of the era didn't have much range?
- A Walrus with a more up-to-date engine and other equipment, and modern guns (thinking of Miniguns here), in service of a PMC/mercenary outfit/undercover SOF unit in the 70's or 80's in a brush war somewhere (note how I didn't mention Rhodesian Air Force... whoops!)
- Post-war civilian use as a boat without wings?