FLASH & MING ROCKETSHIPS - DOGFIGHT DOUBLE

The classic Flash Gordon serials made in the 1930s, starring the incomparable Larry ‘Buster’ Crabbe as Flash Gordon were a smsh hit when origonally shown in cinemas. I recall first seeing them - or compounded into 90 minute movies on BBC TV during Summer Holidays in the 1970s.

The rocketships are indelible designs and with the sputtering and sparking engines and the electric/grinding sound effect they are icons of classic, fun, pulp-y Sci-Fi of the early 20th century.

It was somtimes confusing watching the aerial combat scenes in the serials to tell who was who as both the Ming the Mercilles’s ships and the Flash ship - actually designed and built by Flash’s friend and ally Dr Hans Zarkov - looked very similar. This is odd as they come from two different planets that are meeting each other for the first time.

This would be a fun ‘dogfight double’, with the 1/72nd scale ships coming in at approx 4-5” in length each. The silvery grey plastic favoured by Airfix for their US Bombers like the B17 and B25, would be a must; no painting required. And with no decals, these would be a great kit for youngsters to start on. (But they would need to pay close attention to the instructions so as not to confuse parts between the two ships).

The Serials were made in black & white and I dont know what colouyrs they actually were. I can imagine Flash’s ship was silver, bare metal, But possibly the Ming ships could be copper, or another metal in colour. Model makers can have some fun. And this is afterall what making model kits should be.

Designed by RALPH HAMMERAS (I believe, please contact me me with any additional information)