MPM Hobbies 1/48 Scale LAU-10/A Rocket Launcher (Set of 2)
Add authentic Vietnam War-era rocket ordnance to your 1/48 scale jet aircraft models with this detailed 3D printed LAU-10/A rocket launcher set from MPM Hobbies. As part of the 5.0 Inch Rocket System, the LAU-10 represents a versatile air-to-ground weapon platform used extensively during the Vietnam War and beyond—and now you can recreate that capability with museum-quality detail on your A-4 Skyhawk, F-4 Phantom II, F-8 Crusader, and other tactical strike aircraft.
Historical Significance
The LAU-10/A rocket launcher holds a distinguished place in modern military aviation as a key component of the 5.0 Inch Rocket System. Developed in the 1960s, the LAU-10 provided tactical aircraft with a versatile air-to-ground weapon system capable of engaging a wide variety of targets including enemy positions, vehicles, structures, and personnel. The four-round launcher saw extensive combat use during the Vietnam War, where it proved highly effective in close air support and interdiction missions. Full production of the LAU-10 series began in September 1973, and the system remained in service for decades, demonstrating its reliability and effectiveness across multiple conflicts.
Operational Details
The 5.0 Inch Rocket System employs two primary launcher variants: the LAU-10C/A designed for shore-based use only, and the LAU-10D/A configured for both shore-based and shipboard operations. Both launchers are reusable and can be fired in either single or ripple mode, allowing pilots to engage targets with precision single shots or devastating salvos. The key difference between the LAU-10C/A and LAU-10D/A variants lies in the external thermal coating applied to the LAU-10D/A, which greatly prolongs cook-off protection time in the high-temperature environment of carrier operations. Each launcher carries four 5.0-inch Zuni rockets, providing substantial firepower against ground targets while maintaining relatively light weight and compact dimensions suitable for tactical fighter-bombers.
Product Features
- Scale-Accurate Detail - Precisely scaled 1/48 representation with authentic proportions including rocket tubes, mounting hardware, and suspension lugs
- Premium 3D Printed Resin - High-resolution LCD-based SLA printing captures fine details including panel lines, tube interiors, and mounting brackets
- Historically Accurate - Based on reference photos and technical documentation of actual LAU-10/A launchers
- Set of 2 Launchers - Complete loadout for realistic strike configurations
- Made in the USA - Designed, printed, and quality-controlled by MPM Hobbies in America
- Versatile Compatibility - Suitable for multiple aircraft types that carried the LAU-10 system
Compatible Aircraft Models
The LAU-10/A was carried by numerous US Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force tactical aircraft. This launcher set is ideal for detailing the following 1/48 scale aircraft:
- A-4 Skyhawk variants - Primary Navy light attack platform
- F-4 Phantom II - Multi-role fighter-bomber
- F-8 Crusader - Navy fighter with ground-attack capability
- A-7 Corsair II - Light attack aircraft
- A-6 Intruder - All-weather attack aircraft
- F-5 Tiger II - Lightweight fighter
3D Printing Information
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.
Modeling Tips
For best results, clean any support material carefully with a sharp hobby knife and test-fit the launcher to your aircraft's pylon before final assembly. Prime the resin with a quality primer designed for resin parts, then paint according to your chosen scheme. Most LAU-10/A launchers were finished in overall light gray or white with black or dark gray stenciling and markings. Reference photos will help ensure accurate finish and markings for your specific aircraft and time period.
Complementary Products at MPM Hobbies
- MPM Aircraft Resins collection - Complete range of ordnance, cockpit details, and aircraft upgrades
- 1/48 MPM Missiles - Additional missile options for your aircraft models
- 1/48 MPM Bombs - Expand your ordnance options with period-correct bombs
- Other LAU-10/A variants in 1/32 scale and 1/72 scale
About MPM Hobbies
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 LAU-10 rocket launcher system, visit the LAU-10 Rocket Launcher page at GlobalSecurity.org as a way to find information about their products.
Bring Vietnam War aviation history to life with the authentic LAU-10/A rocket launcher from MPM Hobbies - your source for premium scale modeling accessories.