Product Description

ICM 1/48 Douglas B-26K Counter Invader (Kit No. 48279)

The B-26K Counter Invader was one of the most heavily armed attack aircraft of the Vietnam War. Developed by On Mark Engineering from surplus Douglas A-26 Invaders, the B-26K featured strengthened wings, more powerful engines, wingtip fuel tanks, modernized avionics, and an incredible weapons payload designed for counterinsurgency operations.

Flying primarily with the 609th Special Operations Squadron from Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, the Counter Invader became a feared night attack aircraft along the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

ICM's 1/48 scale B-26K is widely regarded as the definitive Counter Invader kit. Unlike earlier conversion-based projects, ICM created entirely new tooling for the unique wings, fuselage modifications, tip tanks, pylons, cockpit upgrades, and enlarged tail surfaces required for an accurate B-26K. The result is an exceptionally detailed model that captures the appearance and firepower of this legendary Special Operations aircraft.

Features

• Scale: 1/48

• Manufacturer: ICM

• Kit Number: 48279

• Newly tooled B-26K-specific wings

• Enlarged vertical tail and rudder

• Wingtip fuel tanks

• Detailed cockpit with dual controls

• Detailed bomb bay

• Highly detailed Pratt & Whitney R-2800 engines

• Eight underwing pylons

• Extensive weapons selection

• Fine recessed panel lines

• Four Vietnam War marking options

Finished Model Dimensions

• Length: Approximately 16 inches (410mm)

• Wingspan: Approximately 18 inches (460mm)

Skill Level

Intermediate to Advanced

The model features a relatively high parts count and benefits from careful dry fitting, particularly around the wing and nacelle assemblies.

Paint & Glue Required

Paint and cement required for assembly and sold separately.

Historical Background

The B-26K was developed in the early 1960s as part of a modernization program for surviving A-26 Invaders. On Mark Engineering strengthened the airframe, fitted more powerful 2,500-horsepower engines, installed larger propellers, and added eight underwing hardpoints capable of carrying bombs, rockets, gun pods, and napalm.

Operating over Laos and Vietnam, Counter Invaders flew armed reconnaissance, truck hunting, close air support, and interdiction missions. Their ability to carry large weapons loads while loitering over targets made them highly effective despite their World War II origins.

Review Summary

What Modelers Like

• Outstanding accuracy for the B-26K variant

• Completely new wings and B-26K-specific tooling

• Excellent recessed panel line detail

• Detailed engines and cockpit

• Large and impressive weapons selection

• Strong fit and engineering throughout most of the build

Scale modeling reviewers consistently praise ICM for investing in the new tooling required to accurately portray the Counter Invader rather than relying on shortcuts.

Things to Consider

• Main wheels are considered slightly oversized by some reviewers

• Soft plastic requires careful sanding

• Some locating holes may need deepening during assembly

• Complex aircraft with a relatively high parts count

• Engine nacelles benefit from careful test fitting.

Working Title Models Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8/5

Many reviewers consider the ICM Counter Invader the best B-26K ever produced in plastic. One detailed review awarded the kit a 9/10 score and praised ICM for accurately reproducing the unique modifications of the On Mark conversion.