Designer Notes: “Huge Shoutout to RECCE Larry for being a driving factor and fundamental part of this”
KS‑87B reconnaissance camera system for F‑4 Phantom recce aircraft, designed to represent the nose camera installation used on RF‑4 variants and recce‑configured Phantoms. Ideal for anyone converting an F‑4 into an RF‑4 or detailing an existing recon kit.
Full product description
This Black Ops 3D set depicts the KS‑87B reconnaissance camera system used in F‑4 Phantom reconnaissance aircraft. The KS‑87B is a serial frame film camera that was fitted in nose camera bays and pods to capture vertical and forward‑oblique imagery at low to medium altitudes, and was a core component of many RF‑4 recce fits.
The set provides a scaled KS‑87B camera body and its mounting structure so you can build out the camera bay of an RF‑4 or recce‑modified F‑4. It is ideal for modelers who want to open panels, show the camera installed, or build ground‑maintenance scenes with the nose opened up around the recce gear.
Key features
KS‑87B recce camera system for F‑4 Phantom reconnaissance aircraft.
Designed for RF‑4‑type nose installations where KS‑87 cameras were carried in forward or vertical positions.
3D printed camera body and mounting detail ready for open‑bay or partially opened panel displays.
Ideal for recce conversions of standard F‑4 kits or for enhancing RF‑4 kits that lack internal camera detail.
Historical/technical note
The KS‑87 family of cameras provided serial frame imagery for tactical reconnaissance and was used in a wide range of pods and dedicated recce aircraft. In RF‑4 installations, KS‑87 cameras could be mounted in forward‑oblique or vertical positions in the nose camera bays, sometimes paired with other cameras for high‑altitude or panoramic coverage.
Compatibility
Intended for F‑4 Phantom models representing reconnaissance versions such as the RF‑4B/RF‑4C/RF‑4E, or F‑4s modified to carry nose‑mounted KS‑87 recce cameras. The camera and mount can be adapted to most F‑4/RF‑4 kits with minor adjustments to the nose interior.
Installation and use
Decide which bay or panel you want open on your F‑4/RF‑4 build, then test‑fit the KS‑87B assembly inside the nose. Trim or thin the kit plastic as needed so the camera and mount sit correctly relative to the opening. Glue the camera assembly in place with CA, then paint in metallic and equipment colors with appropriate wiring and weathering to bring out the detail. Re‑attach or pose the access panel open as desired.
