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Add authentic beyond visual range (BVR) capability to your 1/48 scale jet aircraft models with this detailed 3D printed AIM-7E Sparrow missile set from MPM Hobbies. As the West's principal medium-range air-to-air missile from the late 1950s until the 1990s, the Sparrow represents a cornerstone of modern air combat—and now you can recreate that capability with museum-quality detail on your F-14 Tomcat, F-4 Phantom II, F-15 Eagle, and other fighter aircraft.
The AIM-7 Sparrow (Air Intercept Missile) holds a distinguished place in modern military aviation as an American medium-range semi-active radar homing air-to-air missile that served as the backbone of Western air superiority for over four decades. Operated by the United States Air Force, United States Navy, and United States Marine Corps, as well as numerous allied air forces and navies worldwide, the Sparrow and its derivatives were the West's principal beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile from the late 1950s until the 1990s. The AIM-7E variant, introduced in the 1960s, represented a significant improvement over earlier versions with enhanced reliability, better guidance, and improved performance at all altitudes.
The AIM-7E Sparrow employs semi-active radar homing guidance, requiring the launching aircraft to continuously illuminate the target with its radar until impact. This "fire and guide" approach meant that pilots had to maintain radar lock throughout the missile's flight, limiting their tactical flexibility but providing reliable guidance against maneuvering targets. The AIM-7E featured improved solid-state electronics compared to earlier variants, significantly enhancing reliability and performance. The missile saw extensive combat use during the Vietnam War, where it proved effective in beyond visual range engagements despite the challenging rules of engagement that often required visual identification before firing. The Sparrow remained in frontline service until being gradually replaced by the more advanced AIM-120 AMRAAM in the 1990s, though it continues to serve with some air forces today.
The AIM-7E Sparrow was carried by numerous US and allied fighter aircraft. This missile set is ideal for detailing the following 1/48 scale aircraft:
Item(s) is/are LCD-based SLA printed using UV cured resin and will be shipped unpainted and with 3D print supports attached. Item can be primed with acrylic, lacquer or enamel type paint. Lightly sand and/or prime any horizontal striations due to the printing process. Remove supports starting from the tip down and start by freeing those supports connected to small and fragile details. Recommend using CA for attaching item to model or filling any imperfections. Item(s) will have features that are brittle or extremely delicate and prone to breaking if not properly handled. 3D print support configurations may be different than the ones in the photos if applicable. Photos may include the CAD rendered file used for printing to highlight details that do not stand out well in regular photos. Not intended for small children due to choking hazard and should only be purchased by experienced modelers due fine details and printer support removal. The number of items in your order is calculated by multiplying the quantity you selected by the number of items per set if applicable. All items are printed in the order they are purchased.
For best results, clean any support material carefully with a sharp hobby knife and test-fit the missile to your aircraft's launcher or pylon before final assembly. Prime the resin with a quality primer designed for resin parts, then paint according to your chosen scheme. Most AIM-7E Sparrow missiles were finished in overall white or light gray with black or dark gray stenciling and markings. Reference photos will help ensure accurate finish and markings for your specific aircraft and time period.
MPM Hobbies specializes in precision 3D printed resin upgrades and accessories for scale aircraft, armor, and ship models. Every product is designed using historical references and technical documentation to ensure maximum accuracy and detail. Our commitment to quality and authenticity has made us a trusted source for serious modelers seeking to elevate their builds beyond kit standards. For additional information about the AIM-7 Sparrow missile family, visit the AIM-7 Sparrow Wikipedia page as a way to find information about their products.
Bring Cold War and modern air combat capability to life with the authentic AIM-7E Sparrow missile from MPM Hobbies - your source for premium scale modeling accessories.
