Sikorsky AH-60L DAP Black Hawk – 1:35 Scale Plastic Model Kit (Academy)

The Sikorsky AH-60L DAP Black Hawk in 1:35 scale by Academy represents one of the most distinctive and purpose-driven variants of the Black Hawk family. Developed under the Direct Action Penetrator (DAP) programme, this configuration transformed the proven utility helicopter into a dedicated fire support and escort platform, blending transport heritage with attack-focused systems.

This plastic model kit is engineered for builders who prioritise scale accuracy, surface fidelity, and systems realism. Fully engraved panel lines and finely rendered rivet details define the fuselage, while the cockpit, rotor head, and transmission assemblies are reproduced with a high degree of precision. The kit includes an extensive weapons suite, featuring realistic representations of the M261 19-tube rocket launcher, M229 missile launcher, AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, miniguns, and auxiliary fuel tanks, reflecting authentic DAP operational loadouts.

Additional external systems such as FLIR, M130 chaff dispenser, HIRSS exhausts, in-flight refuelling probe, and detailed landing gear further reinforce the technical depth of the model. Academy also supplies waterslide decals with an illustrated placement guide, supporting accurate markings and a clean finishing process.

Historical Context: The AH-60L DAP

The AH-60L DAP emerged during the post–Cold War period, as U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation units sought greater organic firepower without relying exclusively on dedicated attack helicopters. Rather than developing a new airframe, the DAP concept adapted the already proven Black Hawk platform into a heavily armed escort and fire support aircraft capable of operating alongside insertion, extraction, and resupply missions.

Based primarily on the UH-60L airframe, the DAP configuration emphasised modularity and mission flexibility. Weapons, sensors, and fuel systems could be tailored to specific operational requirements, allowing the aircraft to shift between escort, overwatch, and strike roles. This reflected a broader evolution in special operations doctrine, where adaptability, speed, and multi-role capability became increasingly important in asymmetric and low-intensity conflict environments.

Although produced in limited numbers, the AH-60L DAP occupies an important place in modern military aviation history. It served as a transitional design, bridging the gap between utility helicopters and dedicated gunships, and influenced later armed Black Hawk variants by demonstrating how transport airframes could be effectively adapted for precision fire support.

Scale Presence and Modelling Appeal

With a fuselage length of approximately 432 mm and a rotor diameter of 470 mm, the completed model commands strong visual presence. It is well suited for standalone display or inclusion in a modern military diorama, particularly those focused on special operations aviation or late-20th-century conflict settings.

As with most high-detail plastic kits, paints and glue are required and sold separately. The complexity and level of detail make this kit especially suitable for intermediate to advanced modellers who appreciate engineering intent and mechanical authenticity over simplified assembly.

From a modelling perspective, the AH-60L DAP offers a rare opportunity to represent a mission-driven, non-mainstream variant, appealing to builders who value technical credibility and historical context rather than familiarity alone.

Product Focus

This kit aligns squarely with Scale & Motion’s emphasis on engineering-led modelling, where realism, mechanical logic, and historical relevance take precedence over novelty or gimmicks.

👉 View product and availability here:

https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=24387&awinaffid=1988493&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hobbies.co.uk%2Facademy-1-35-scale-sikorsky-ah-60l-dap-black-hawk-plastic-model-kit

Image credits: Academy / Hobbies

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