Meng 1:35 AH-64D Apache Longbow

I'm going to do this scheme option of 1-227th AVN AH-64D which was downed by ground fires on March 24, 2003 in Karbala during the battle of Najaf.  

The proud farmer who shot down the Apache with his trusty AK-47 😄 

Added Eduard steel seatbelt as Meng's Apache does not come with a PE seatbelt, unlike Takom.  

Using Quinta's 3D decal for Takom's Apache. Fit is perfect since both kit is practically the same in some areas.  

This bird is quite big even without the rotor.  

Still not decided if I'm going to left this one open or closed. Unlike Takom, Meng provides the avionics as a separate part which should make painting easier. The cables are also already moulded in which is easier if you don't want to add your own cables. Although some may prefer to add their own since the result will be more realistic...
I used AK Real Colors RC262 US Interior Yellow Green for the bay and the inner part of the door.  

The fit of the right avionic bay door is excellent if you want to leave it open. No glue required. 

Still excellent fit with no glue. I'll paint this first and decide later.  

On the other hand, the left avionic bay door needs to be glued if you want to leave it open.  

Also an excellent fit. This is snap fit without glue. 

Another difference between Takom and Meng kit is this avionic bays cooling vent cover. Takom provides a photo etch part while Meng provides a clear part. The next picture is the photo of the real thing which is actually a really fine mesh.
Maybe I can paint the clear part with Tamiya Smoke to get the same effect. But I'll leave this one off for now.
 

Progress so far. This kit goes together very well, like a snap fit kit.  

The top part is just a test-fit. Still need to clean the sprue attachment mark.  

One tricky bit, the starboard landing gear leg needs to be angled when you push it up to the hole.  

Starboard engine, closed for now. 

Port engine detailed 

Meng's decals are fine 

The CPG's M4 PDW came loose. Will glue this back later along with some other small parts. 

Decalling done, ready for weathering!