ACA12250 - Academy - 1/48 Hughes Tow Defender 500D

The Hughes 500D Tow Defender (Academy 12250) is a 1/48 scale model kit of the lightweight American utility helicopter adapted for anti-armour and observation roles using the TOW missile system. Based on the versatile Hughes 500 series—developed from the OH-6 Cayuse—the 500D Tow Defender represents a Cold War-era battlefield helicopter known for its agility, low operating cost, and multi-role capability. Equipped with side-mounted TOW missile launchers, this armed variant was designed to provide mobile anti-tank support and reconnaissance for modern ground forces.

Academy’s kit captures the compact airframe of the Hughes 500D with finely engraved surface detail, a detailed cockpit interior, and accurate external weapon mounts, making it a popular subject for Cold War and modern helicopter model enthusiasts.

Box Contents:

• Injection-moulded plastic sprues
• Detailed Hughes 500D light utility helicopter model (1/48 scale)
• TOW missile launcher system with side-mounted pylons
• Finely engraved fuselage and rotor detailing
• Detailed cockpit with instrument panel and seating
• Realistic skids landing gear assembly
• Main rotor and tail rotor components
• Optional external equipment and antenna details
• Clear parts for cockpit glazing
• Waterslide decals with military markings
• Illustrated assembly instructions