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Hobby Japan is adding two new 1:64 scale diecast models to its Initial D lineup, with a battle-themed Toyota Sprinter Trueno and a multi-color Subaru Impreza set to arrive in the first half of 2027.

The AE86 Returns: Shinji Inui vs. Takumi Fujiwara

The new Toyota Sprinter Trueno (AE86) 2-door replica is tied to the showdown between Shinji Inui and Takumi Fujiwara from the anime series. Coded as HJDMD013, this 1:64 scale model is scheduled for release in early 2027. Hobby Japan’s team has confirmed the model, which joins a growing series of Initial D battle replicas. Previous releases include the Tomoyuki Tachi vs. Takumi Fujiwara Honda Civic EK9 (part number HJDMD007) and the Keisuke Takahashi vs. Takumi Fujiwara Mazda RX-7 (FD3S) (HJDMD002A), both already available through retailers. Those earlier models are limited-production runs and officially licensed by Honda and Mazda, respectively. The new Trueno continues that tradition of packaging specific rivalries into a single model.

Subaru Impreza: Four Colors and a First Look at Packaging

Alongside the Trueno, Hobby Japan will introduce the Subaru Impreza Pure Sports Coupe WRX Type-R STi Version in the same 1:64 scale. Collectors will have four color choices: White, Grey, Gran Blue, and Sonic Blue. Each variant carries a distinct product number: HJ641079GW (White), HJ641079GGM (Grey), HJ641079GDB (Gran Blue), and HJ641079HBL (Sonic Blue). These models are expected to hit shelves in Q1 2027.

A Japanese retailer listing reveals that the Impreza model belongs to Hobby Japan’s “HJ64” diecast series. It is constructed from diecast zinc alloy and ABS plastic, and comes with a clear protective case and a display base — standard for the series. The packaging dimensions are approximately 120mm × 60mm × 50mm. A separate product code for the blue variant, 4981932072319, has also been registered, indicating that production details are already in place.

Context from the Existing Initial D Line

Hobby Japan has been steadily issuing 1:64 Initial D replicas. Earlier models like the Honda Civic (EK9) Todojuku set (HJDMD007) and the Mazda RX-7 (FD3S) RedSuns set (HJDMD002A) have been released in limited numbers. Retailers such as Model Cars Houston list them as “Released” and note they are officially licensed by the respective car manufacturers. Those sets feature blister-style packaging and are already available for purchase. The new Trueno and Impreza will expand the collection, giving fans of the anime and JDM enthusiasts additional ways to recreate iconic street-racing scenes.

The Impreza’s four-color lineup and the Trueno’s specific battle theme suggest Hobby Japan is targeting both casual collectors and dedicated Initial D followers. The company has not disclosed pricing or pre-order dates for these upcoming models, but the confirmed product numbers and release windows indicate that production is moving forward.

With the Trueno arriving in early 2027 and the Impreza in Q1 2027, scale-model fans have clear release targets for the coming year. Both models will join the existing Initial D diecast line, which now spans multiple iconic cars from the series.

R1 Wurks has released two new tuning parts for the R1B buggy, starting with a precision-machined 7075 T6 aluminum front ball stud mount. The mount is designed to add rigidity and adjustability to the front end.

“This precision-machined aluminum mount offers increased front-end rigidity for reduced flex and a more responsive handling feel,” R1 Wurks said.

The skeletonized design balances strength and weight, adding 2.5 grams of additional nose weight over the stock plastic mount. That forward bias can sharpen steering feel without overwhelming the chassis. The mount is CNC-machined for accuracy and finished with a durable matte black anodized coating and laser-etched R1 branding. R1 Wurks chose high-strength 7075 T6 aluminum for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and durability.

Extra Adjustment Points

Beyond the material upgrade, the mount offers two additional intermediate ball-stud mounting holes, giving more camber link positions than the factory part. These allow finer tuning of front-end grip and steering response depending on track conditions. R1 Wurks stresses the importance of using a low-strength blue thread-locking compound on all screws and ball studs to prevent loosening during use.

Drop-In Brass Weight

For those who want even more nose heft, an optional 10-gram brass weight drops directly into the aluminum mount. R1 Wurks describes the brass weight as a “must-have option” for the aluminum mount. Sold separately as part #920337 for $9.99, the weight is CNC-machined from brass, engraved for easy identification, and includes an M2.5×6 cap head screw. The brass weight is a simple drop-in component that integrates without modification.

“In certain conditions, adding weight to the front of your buggy can be beneficial. In most cases, doing so may help with front-end traction, steering response, and stability, especially in corners,” the company explained. “Additionally, added weight can help reduce front-end bounce, leading to smoother handling and control.”

R1 Wurks notes that overall chassis balance should be considered, and battery placement may need adjustment when adding weight. The weight is compatible only with the R1B optional aluminum ball stud mount, not the stock plastic version.

Competition-Focused Lineup

R1 Wurks, operating as R1 Brushless Motor Lab, LLC, is an independent aftermarket manufacturer specializing in competition-level RC upgrades. The company is not affiliated with or endorsed by original vehicle manufacturers, and all model references are used solely for compatibility identification. R1 Wurks’ product line includes a variety of suspension, driveline, and shock components tailored for off-road racing, as noted by retailer R/C Madness.

The new mount joins a lineup of similar parts for other buggy platforms. For example, R1 Wurks also produces an aluminum front ball stud mount for the B7 series (fits B7, B7D, T7, and SC7 models). That mount weighs 10.9 grams and is 0.6g lighter than the stock plastic mount, while still offering the same additional adjustment holes and optional 10g weight. These models are based on designs by Associated Electrics, but R1 Wurks is an independent aftermarket supplier.

Pricing and Availability

The aluminum front ball stud mount (part #920336) is available now for $37.99. The brass weight insert (part #920337) is $9.99 and is not compatible with the plastic stock mount. Both components are sold separately. Interested buyers can find more information at R1Wurks.com or through authorized retailers such as R/C Madness, which offers fast shipping on R1 Wurks competition components.

Savox has added a serious new piece of hardware to its Monster Line, purpose-built for large-scale aircraft and jets. The SV-1281SG is a standard-size digital high-voltage coreless servo that delivers 60.0 kg/cm of torque at 8.4V with a speed of 0.14 sec/60°, making it capable of moving massive control surfaces with precision.

Under the Hood

The SV-1281SG is a standard-size digital high-voltage coreless servo designed for demanding RC applications where extreme torque, steel gear durability, and precise control are required. Its coreless motor is engineered for smooth, efficient, and responsive operation. The steel gear train provides maximum durability for heavy-duty use, while the full aluminum case adds strength, rigidity, and improved heat dissipation. Water/dust-resistant protection helps the servo endure outdoor conditions.

Key specifications from the official product page:

• Torque: 60.0 kg/cm at 8.4V, 50.0 at 7.4V, 40.0 at 6.0V
• Speed: 0.14 sec/60° at 8.4V, 0.16 at 7.4V, 0.18 at 6.0V
• Operating voltage: 6.0V – 8.4V
• Dimensions: 40.3 x ​20.2 x 38.7 mm
• Weight: 87 g
• Spline: 25T, 6.0 mm
• Connector: JR universal with colored lead
• Positioning: VR potentiometer, direct drive
• Soft Start function included
• Quiescent current: 5 mA, Rated current: 250 mA, Blocking current: 10,500 mA

The servo uses digital HV technology for accurate positioning and reliable control. The VR potentiometer with direct drive positioning provides precise feedback. The Soft Start function gradually applies power to reduce sudden movement, protecting both the servo and the connected control surfaces.

Built for Big Models

Savox designed the SV-1281SG for large-scale aircraft and jets. The official product description states it delivers “massive power for large airplanes, jets and other high-load RC applications.” The combination of coreless motor and digital high-voltage controller ensures smooth response and consistent control even under heavy aerodynamic loads. The steel gear train handles the repetitive stress of giant-scale aerobatics or turbine-powered flight.

The full aluminum case does double duty: it adds structural rigidity and improves heat dissipation, helping the servo maintain performance during extended, demanding use. The water/dust-resistant sealing adds an extra layer of protection for everyday flying conditions.

The SV-1281SG is part of Savox’s Monster Line, which also includes the SV-1280SG (55.0 kg/cm at 8.4V, 0.12 sec/60°, 76 g) and the SV-1280SGP, a variant aimed at giant-scale aerobatics. The SV-1281SG offers higher torque than those models (60.0 vs 55.0 kg/cm) but a slightly slower speed (0.14 vs 0.12 sec/60°), and is heavier at 87 g compared to 76 g. All share the same aluminum case, steel gears, and water/dust resistance.

Availability and Pricing

The SV-1281SG is currently in stock. The official Savox distributor site lists more than 10 units available at a price of €116.95 (€96.65 excl. VAT). The package includes the servo, standard mounting hardware, and standard accessories. A product walkthrough video from TeamSavox is accessible via SavoxUSA.com, offering a closer look at the servo’s construction and features.

For modelers building large-scale aircraft, jets, or high-torque steering applications, the SV-1281SG provides a compelling combination of torque, durability, and standard-size compatibility.

Savox has just dropped a servo that looks like it was engineered to take a beating and keep on steering. The new SB-2230SG is a high-voltage brushless digital servo that brings steel gears, an aluminum tall case, and the kind of holding power that should make any RC enthusiast sit up and take notice.

A Closer Look at the Toughness

The SB-2230SG is described by Savox as “one of the toughest brushless servos in the Original Savox lineup.” It’s built around a brushless motor that promises longer life and cooler operating temperatures compared to traditional brushed servos. That alone is a big deal for anyone who has cooked a servo during a long bash session or a hard race.

According to the company:

“TeamSavox brings you a closer look at the SB-2230SG, one of the toughest brushless servos in the Original Savox lineup. Built with a brushless motor for longer life and cooler running temps, this servo pairs unique steel gears with a full aluminum tall case to deliver massive holding power for the most demanding applications.”

That “massive holding power” comes from the combination of a high-torque brushless motor and the rigidity of the aluminum case. The steel gears are designed to handle sustained abuse, making this a solid choice for heavy-duty builds like 1/8 and 1/10 buggies, truggies, monster trucks, and even large-scale aircraft.

Key Specs (Source-Supported)

Product listings from multiple hobby retailers flesh out the numbers on the SB-2230SG. The servo is a standard-size digital unit that operates on 6.0V to 7.4V (though some sources note a wider range of 4.8V to 8.4V). Here are the confirmed figures:

• Torque: 36.0 kg·cm at 6.0V / 42.0 kg·cm at 7.4V
• Speed: 0.16 sec/60° at 6.0V / 0.13 sec/60° at 7.4V
• Weight: 84 g
• Dimensions: 40.3 × 20.2 × 44.9–45.0 mm (height varies slightly between sources)
• Motor type: Brushless (AC)
• Gear material: Steel
• Case material: Aluminum center case with composite ends
• Bearings: Dual ball bearings
• Spline: 25-tooth
• Connector: JR type
• Resolution: 12-bit (4096 steps)

The servo also features a 333 Hz refresh rate and a neutral position of 1,500 µs. Operating temperature range is -10°C to 50°C.

A Plus Variant with SSR Soft Start

Alongside the base SB-2230SG, Savox also offers the SB-2230SG+ PLUS model. This version includes SSR (Super Speed Response) compatibility and a Soft Start function. SSR works exclusively with SANWA radio systems such as the M-17, M-12S, M12RS, MT-44, and MT-5 to maximize transmission speed and precision. Soft Start protects both the servo and the linkage when the electronics are powered on, reducing shock loads.

The PLUS variant shares the same core specs – brushless motor, steel gears, aluminum center case – but adds those extra features for users who want the finest control with compatible radios.

Where It Fits

The SB-2230SG is squarely aimed at the demanding end of the RC hobby. The torque figures put it in monster-servo territory, and the aluminum case should help dissipate heat during long runs. The 12-bit resolution means smoother, more precise movement, which is always welcome in competition vehicles. It’s also HV-ready, so you can run it directly on a 2S LiPo without a regulator.

Availability

Savox has not announced a specific launch date, but the SB-2230SG and SB-2230SG+ are already appearing at online retailers. The base model and the PLUS variant can be found at SavoxUSA.com and specialist RC shops like Nitro Hobbies and Hobby Guy. The servos are in stock at several outlets.

Why connectors matter

Battery connectors rarely get the spotlight in RC racing, but Hobbywing driver Spencer Rivkin has some advice about them. In a new video highlighted by RC Car Action, Rivkin talks about the importance of battery connections—specifically bullet connectors—and how they can affect a racing program, the equipment involved, and on-track performance.

The video is a focused reminder that connector choice is not just a maintenance detail. The plug between the battery and speed control is part of how power gets delivered, and Rivkin’s point is that getting it wrong can show up in equipment and on-track performance.

Hobbywing North America’s own RC 101 primer makes the same point in more technical terms. The company describes itself as a team of hobby enthusiasts who love full-size and R/C aircraft, boats, cars, and trucks, and says that range of interests helps with developing new products. The guide notes that a vast range of battery connectors is used by different manufacturers on batteries, chargers, and speed controllers. Its core advice: choose a preferred connector type and stick with it to keep compatibility across equipment. If you have the equipment and skills, the guide says, it is a relatively easy job to cut off different plug types and solder or crimp on your preferred type.

Bullet connectors and common plugs

The guide’s main picture shows a range of the most popular battery connectors and balance/charging plugs. The overview groups connectors by job. Main power connectors include Deans/T, JST/BEC, Tamiya, bullet, HXT, Traxxas, XT60, and EC3. Balance and charging plugs include Flight Power/Thunder Power, Hyperion/PolyQuest, JST-XH, and JST-EH.

Bullet connectors get specific attention as single-wire connectors available in sizes from 2mm to 8mm, allowing racers to match the connector to current draw and load. Some plugs are better suited to certain jobs. JST/BEC connectors are for low current draw, while Deans/T is described as a medium-to-high-current option. HXT connectors come in 3.5mm and 4.00mm sizes for medium-to-high-power applications. Tamiya plugs usually appear on NiCd/NiMH car and boat batteries. Traxxas, XT60, and EC3 connectors are all described as high-current battery connection options.

Hobbywing’s guide also has a clear preference. It says the company has mainly chosen Deans/T connections, but its stated recommendation is XT-type plugs—XT60, XT90, or larger.

Our recommendation is no doubt, use B7 that is XT type (XT60, XT90, or larger).

The same guide includes a few warnings. It suggests a minimum 70C rating and notes that a lower C rating may be okay but will not provide the intended experience. It also warns that plug surface area must be larger than the wires installed, and it advises that TRX, T Plug, EC plugs, and Deans are not suggested for today’s upgraded electronics setups.

More than connectors

Rivkin’s connector tips are not the only thing in his Hobbywing content this week. A related LiveRC write-up of Rivkin’s Hobbywing tips says he also covered maximizing battery usage, motor and ESC temperatures, and adapting setups to grip levels. That puts connector choice alongside battery care, temperature management, and setup changes in the same week of tips.

RC Car Action’s write-up of the video sums up the core message: battery connections can affect a racing program, the equipment involved, and on-track performance. Hobbywing North America’s connector guide adds the technical backup, from bullet connector sizes to XT-type recommendations and warnings about today’s upgraded electronics.

Pop Race is keeping the heat on collectors with a fresh batch of 1:64 scale diecast models scheduled for a November release. The lineup includes four distinct cars, and one of them rolls in with completely new tooling, giving fans of JDM and touring car history something to get excited about.

The Four New Models

The November roster covers a solid range of flavors. Leading the pack is an LB Super Silhouette RX7 (FD3S). Next up is the PANDEM GR 86 Moontech, bringing a modern look into the fold. A PANDEM E30 Eneos builds on a German classic silhouette, while the Honda Civic (EF9) #15 JTC 1991 InterTEC rounds out the group with a reference to the 1991 Japanese Touring Car Championship.

Fresh Tooling Arrives

One of these four castings is built on entirely new tooling, though Pop Race hasn’t specified which model gets that treatment. The product numbers for the November releases are: PR640537, PR640338, PR640542, and PR640553.

Previous Pre-Order Activity

Pop Race has been active in the pre-order space earlier this year. The brand announced a Singer Targa replica that drew comparisons to a Hot Wheels Red Line Club release, a Pandem S2000, and a yellow Mugen DC2 with an opening hood—all offered as pre-orders with limited windows. The Singer Targa pre-order closed on June 1, while the Mugen DC2 and Pandem S2000 pre-orders closed on June 8. A separate pre-order listing for a Pandem Datsun 280ZX in red, inspired by Japanese racing style, has also been available, with the manufacturer noting that the expected release date is subject to change.

Context from Other Brands

The diecast landscape is active beyond Pop Race. Tarmac Works recently teased a Kimera EVO37 and a collaboration with Joshua Vide, and introduced new tooling for an LB-ER34 Super Silhouette Skyline. A wave of Tarmac Works pre-orders included an Auto Finesse LB-Super Silhouette Nissan SILVIA (S15), a Falken Motorsports Porsche 911 GT3 R based on Nico Menzel’s Nürburgring 24h 2024 entry, and a Kalle Rovanpera Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 Hybrid from the 2023 Central European Rally.

Matchbox is also in the mix, releasing a special Moving Parts set tied to the upcoming “Matchbox: The Movie.” That collection features a 1973 Volkswagen T2B (a brand-new casting), a Ford GT40, a 2019 Dodge Ram Ambulance, and a 2020 Nissan GT-R NISMO (R35) with opening doors rather than a hood.

Availability and Release Details

Pop Race models are typically sold through pre-order and may become scarce on retail shelves after the pre-order window closes, as noted in previous announcements. The precise release dates and pricing for the four November models have not yet been disclosed by the manufacturer.

With the model numbers now known and the lineup including a mix of modern and classic race-inspired machines, collectors can start planning for the November arrival of these four new entries.

Norev has added a fresh take on a classic silhouette to its lineup, and this one’s dressed in a sunny hue. The French die-cast manufacturer has unveiled a 1:18 scale model of the 1973 Volkswagen 1303 finished in Pastel Yellow, offering collectors a clean, sealed-body replica at a price point that won’t break the bank.

A Curved-Windshield Icon

The 1973 Volkswagen 1303, a derivative of the legendary Beetle, first appeared in 1972. Its most distinguishing feature—a curved windscreen—set it apart from earlier models and gave the car a more modern look. Norev’s new replica captures that distinctive profile in die-cast metal, with the exterior finished in the soft, retro Pastel Yellow that suits the car’s character.

Sealed Construction, Open Debate

For this model, Norev has opted for a sealed body—meaning no opening doors, hood, or trunk. That choice is worth noting because collector preferences on this point vary widely. While some enthusiasts insist on fully opening examples for maximum detail access, others appreciate the cleaner lines and simpler construction of a sealed replica. Die-cast hobbyists will recognize the trade-off: sealed models often achieve sharper panel fit and a more solid feel, while opening models reward those who want to peek under the hood.

A similar model in Tropic Green has also been spotted on retailer lists, and a black 1303 Cabriolet variant—also sealed, with steerable wheels and rubber tires—has appeared at specialty sellers, suggesting Norev is working through a small range of these early-70s VW variants. The Cabriolet listing notes dimensions of approximately 8.5 x 3.25 x 3 inches and construction from die-cast metal with some plastic parts.

Pricing and Availability

Norev has positioned the Pastel Yellow 1303 at under $99 USD, making it a relatively accessible entry in the 1:18 scale segment. At that price point, it competes with other sealed metal models from European manufacturers and offers an officially licensed VW product. The model carries product number 188675.

For those considering the Tropic Green version, availability is less certain—retailers such as Diecast Legends list it as a pre-order with no confirmed release date. Payment for that variant is not charged until the order is processed for dispatch, and the final retail price may differ from the listing. The Pastel Yellow model, by contrast, appears to be available now.

A Broader 1303 Series?

With at least three variations in circulation—Pastel Yellow, Tropic Green, and the black Cabriolet—Norev appears to be building a small family of 1973 Volkswagen 1303 models. Collectors who favor the 1303’s rounder, more modern Beetle profile over the older 1302 or standard Beetle shapes now have several color and body-style options to choose from.

Whether Norev will follow with additional colors, limited runs, or an opening version remains unconfirmed. For now, the Pastel Yellow coupe gives fans of sealed metal models a bright, nostalgic addition to their shelves—at a price that leaves room for the next purchase.

The Toy Association and New York’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center have inked a five-year partnership that keeps Toy Fair in Manhattan through 2032, ending any speculation about the industry’s flagship event shifting dates or venues.

The agreement provides the kind of long-term certainty that matters to an industry built around multi-year product development cycles, retail planning, and international travel schedules. With the show’s location, February timing, and Saturday-through-Tuesday format now locked in, manufacturers, retailers, licensors, and other stakeholders can set their calendars and budgets years ahead.

The decision came after what the Association described as a comprehensive strategic evaluation that included open feedback and broad collaboration with key players across the toy business. According to the organization, a clear consensus emerged: a four-day February show in New York City remains the preferred format.

Dates Through 2032

Following the upcoming 121st Toy Fair, scheduled for February 20–23, 2027, the confirmed dates are:

• February 26–29, 2028
• February 24–27, 2029
• February 23–26, 2030
• February 22–25, 2031
• February 21–24, 2032

The Toy Association and Javits leadership worked through one of the busiest convention calendars in the country to find slots that worked for stakeholders. The chosen dates intentionally avoid both President’s Day and Valentine’s Day each year — two scheduling priorities that exhibitors and attendees consistently raised during the consultation process.

A 40-Year Partnership

Toy Fair’s relationship with the Javits Center stretches back to the venue’s opening in 1986, and the organization says that history helped cement New York City’s role as a global hub for the toy business.

“We provided industry leaders with a blank canvas and every reasonable option for review, and after a thorough evaluation, it was clear that New York City in February best meets the needs and goals of our diverse global toy community,” said Greg Ahearn, president and CEO of The Toy Association. “We’re grateful to the leadership team at the Javits Center for working alongside us to make this vision a reality.”

Ahearn also emphasized the significance of the venue’s commitment. “Their willingness to make a five-year commitment is a remarkable demonstration of confidence in our industry and Toy Fair’s importance on the global trade show calendar.”

Joyce Leveston, president and CEO of the Javits Center, echoed that sentiment. “Toy Fair and New York have grown together for generations, and we are thrilled that the next chapter of that story will continue at Javits Center. It’s not just about providing space, it’s about the partnership we have with our customers. We work closely to create experiences where connections are made and business gets done.”

What Toy Fair Means

Toy Fair is the largest toy, play, and youth entertainment marketplace in the Western Hemisphere. Each year it brings together thousands of professionals and international media from roughly 100 countries for product launches, retail meetings, trend discovery, and educational programming. The event serves as the industry’s primary platform for unveiling new toys, games, and entertainment-driven experiences.

The Toy Association represents more than 800 manufacturers, retailers, licensors, and related organizations. The U.S. toy industry has an annual economic impact of $155.7 billion, with Association members driving the $45.6 billion domestic toy market.

With the five-year deal now in place, the message to exhibitors and attendees is clear: Toy Fair New York isn’t just staying put — it has a predictable runway through 2032.

When you think of an RC jet, you might picture a small foam model. But a new video from the RC hobby website Model Airplane News featuring a giant-scale BAE Hawk 100 from Tomahawk Aviation redefines the scale. The article, titled “Mega-Scale BAE Hawk!”, was published on August 30, 2026 at 17:02 UTC. It showcases a massive, turbine-powered aircraft that the publication describes as extremely large.

Specs That Impress

The specifications are substantial. According to the article, the model’s wingspan measures nearly 12½ feet, its length just over 16 feet, and its weight around 198 pounds. Powering this heavyweight is a JetCat P550 Pro turbine, which generates approximately 124 pounds of thrust. That thrust allows the jet to take off with authority. The airframe is a scale replica of the BAE Hawk 100. The article notes the size, highlighting that the combination of a nearly 12.5-foot wingspan, 16-foot length, and 198-pound weight, along with the JetCat turbine’s thrust, makes for an impressive giant-scale representation.

The New Video

The video, hosted on the Model Airplane News website, captures the Hawk taking off and demonstrating its flight performance. The footage shows the jet rolling down the runway, lifting off, and climbing into the sky. The article invites readers to view the footage, describing it as an incredible Hawk that shows the capabilities of a giant-scale RC jet. The video is embedded on the Model Airplane News site and is available for viewing with the article.

The BAE Hawk in Giant Scale

The BAE Hawk platform appears in at least two notable giant-scale turbine versions. The first is the Tomahawk Aviation Hawk 100 featured in the new video. The second is a Giant RC Jet Scale Turbine BAE Hawk MK2 with a Swiss design, filmed in September 2025. That video, posted on mo-pilot.com by creator RCHeliJet, was recorded at Mollis Airport in Switzerland during a guest event hosted by the RC Club Glarlandner. The Swiss model is a distinct MK2 variant, while the Tomahawk model is a Hawk 100, both demonstrating the Hawk’s appeal among RC scale modelers.

Swiss Video Details

The Swiss video is titled “Giant RC Jet Scale Turbine BAE Hawk MK2 Swiss Design.” Its description mentions beautiful mountain scenery at Mollis Airport and a guest event by RC Club Glarlandner, noting that it looks fantastic and inviting viewers to enjoy the scale RC turbine model jet. The location, Mollis Airport, provides a scenic backdrop for RC flying. The video was published on September 8, 2025 at 18:31 UTC. A caution on the page notes that text from automatic speech recognition from the video is generally known to be inaccurate, so the audio captions may not be reliable. The video is tagged with #Giant #Jet #Scale #Turbine #BAE #Hawk #MK2 #Swiss #Design, indicating its key features. Despite being from 2025, the video remains a relevant example of the giant-scale Hawk in flight.

Bottom Line

The Tomahawk Aviation BAE Hawk 100, with its nearly 12.5-foot wingspan, 16-foot length, and JetCat P550 Pro turbine delivering 124 pounds of thrust, is a substantial RC jet. The new video from Model Airplane News showcases its takeoff and flight. The video is part of the article on the Model Airplane News site, and those interested in giant-scale turbine models can watch it there.

An RC plane shaped like a giant hoop just took to the skies, and the results might change how you think about wings. James Whomsley, better known as ProjectAir, has built and flown a remote-controlled aircraft whose main lifting surfaces are complete circles. The question he set out to answer: can a circular wing outperform a traditional straight wing?

From a Childhood Paper Plane to a Full-Size Build

The idea didn’t come from thin air. Whomsley recalled a ring-shaped paper plane he folded as a kid — a simple hoop that flew farther and straighter than any dart he’d made. Years later, he decided to test the concept at scale.

He started small, building two 12-gram rubber-band-powered models: one with a conventional straight wing, the other with a circular wing of similar area. In breezy conditions, the straight-wing model stayed aloft for about seven seconds before wobbling and tumbling. The circular version flew for more than ten seconds, naturally correcting itself in the wind and landing smoothly. “The stability of this thing is insane,” Whomsley said during that early test.

Balsa, Crashes, and a Switch to Foam

Encouraged, Whomsley designed a much larger version in CAD. The balsa components were laser-cut and assembled like a puzzle. The two unfinished wing frames weighed just over 2 kg. A long box fuselage with reinforced bulkheads held the rings in place, and the whole structure was covered in heat-shrink film.

But powered flight proved brutal. The first launch ended with both balsa spars snapping on impact. A second attempt reused the rear ring, added a conventional tail, and lowered the motors — but the same pitch-down problem destroyed the remaining balsa wing.

The team switched materials. The new circular wing was built from foam and aluminum tube, which bent rather than shattered under motor loads. A central strut prevented the ring from expanding, and the motors were rigidly mounted on the fuselage. On the next launch, the plane lifted off cleanly, cruised smoothly through gusts, and responded to control inputs like a normal RC plane — with a bit more roll stability than expected. It flew until the batteries ran low, then returned for a safe, intact landing.

Why Circular Wings?

Circular wings — also called annular or ring wings — aren’t new. Designers have explored them for decades, looking to reduce tip vortices and improve structural efficiency. Wind-tunnel studies have shown that a ring can sometimes match or even exceed the efficiency of a conventional wing of the same size, though extra drag and tricky pitching behavior complicate the picture. Whomsley’s large-scale model didn’t claim to be a game changer; it simply demonstrated that a properly reinforced ring-wing aircraft can generate lift, remain controllable, and handle wind surprisingly well.

A Legacy of Unconventional RC Aircraft

ProjectAir is no stranger to odd builds. Earlier this year, Whomsley set a Guinness World Record for the largest wingspan on a rocket-powered remote-controlled aircraft — a 19-foot (5.9 m) balsa glider boosted by a rocket motor. That record flight lasted 29 seconds and required careful hand-launching and gentle gliding back to earth.

The circular-wing project follows the same spirit: taking a simple childhood idea and scaling it up with engineering, crashes, and determination. Whomsley’s video documenting the entire process is now available on the ProjectAir YouTube channel.

“I think that proves that a circular wing works,” Whomsley said after the first successful flight. The experiment doesn’t declare circular wings universally superior, but it shows that with the right structure and motor placement, a ring-wing RC plane can fly — and fly well.