Special Hobby 48172 Loire 130Cl "Colonial" 1/48 – Plastic Aircraft Model Kit

Special Hobby 48172 Loire 130Cl "Colonial" 1/48 is a unique, high-quality plastic model kit, dedicated to enthusiasts of railway and aviation modeling. The set depicts one of the most recognizable French reconnaissance seaplanes of the 20th century – the Loire 130 in the Colonial version.

Technical Data and Model Scale

• Scale: 1/48
• Material: high-quality polystyrene plastic
• Extras: includes photo-etched parts to increase the realism of the cockpit and fuselage details
• Box contents: plastic sprues, photo-etched parts, decals with unique markings of French colonial units, detailed assembly instructions
• The kit does not include: glue or paints (sold separately)

Historical Description

The Loire 130 was a key reconnaissance seaplane for the French Navy during World War II. It was designed in the late 1930s by the Loire Aviation company and entered service in 1938. The aircraft mainly served on board ships, but the Colonial version was designed specifically for operations in the overseas territories of France, such as Indochina and North Africa. It took part in reconnaissance, convoy escort, and air support missions in the challenging conditions of the French colonies. Its extensive use during the conflicts of 1939–1945 and immediately after the war made it an icon of naval aviation of that era.

Product Category

• Plastic aircraft model kit
• 1/48 scale models
• World War II airplanes
• Seaplanes

Who is it recommended for?

The Special Hobby 48172 Loire 130Cl "Colonial" 1/48 model is a proposition for advanced modelers (difficulty level 4/5), who expect historical accuracy and demand attention to detail. We particularly recommend it to naval aviation enthusiasts and collectors of rare aircraft versions used outside Europe. It’s also a great choice for those interested in the colonial history of France and unique decals reflecting the authenticity of exotic units.

Why is it worth it?

• Highly accurate reproduction of fuselage, wings, and cockpit details
• Photo-etched extras that enhance collectibility
• Unique subject – rarely seen Colonial version of the seaplane
• Decals allow for the creation of several historical paint schemes