Patriot Models KC-33 Tanker Unboxing

[YesterAirlines]

Thanks to Bedfordshire Diecast I was able to acquire the Patriot Models KC-33, which arrived a few days ago, just after the HX Models 747, whose mould it is based on. This is definitely a premium product, both in terms of cost and packaging, but it is also a super nice model. Patriot are definitely making some interesting niche aircraft and are a brand worth looking out for:

 

[YesterAirlines]

Couple of images too:

 

[Mark22]

These are the kind of models I would pay a higher price for. High quality mould and packaging and a unique aircraft. If only other brands would do something with their new products...

 

[abdulmohiuddin]

The stripes on the antenna are quite impressive, looking forward to seeing these hit Western retailers.

Could this mould be used for an Iranian 747 tanker as well, pretty sure the only modification needed would be adding a refueling hump on the nose?

 

[YesterAirlines]

The stripes on the antenna are quite impressive, looking forward to seeing these hit Western retailers.

I got this from Bedfordshire Diecast. Since the production run was only 150 units and he had about 10, West Coast Diecast had probably about the same and the rest seem to have been sold in China I don't think anymore of this model will be available.

Could this mould be used for an Iranian 747 tanker as well, pretty sure the only modification needed would be adding a refueling hump on the nose?

Yeah I guess so

 

[LeoMuse747]

Truly an amazing model! Things will get even more exotic when HX get their 747 SCA ready.
HX and Patriot really put NG to shame when it comes to B747-100! Who would have thought that huh?!

 

[abdulmohiuddin]

My earlier comment about an Iranian example has aged well, as Patriot Models has announced a twinset of two IIAF 747 tankers. One in the TWA interm livery and one in proper IIAF colors. Seems to have been commissioned by the IIAF Museum, given how their logo is on the box art.
A quick interaction with the owners of Patriot Models also revealed plans for an IRIAF variant for the future, one that I am very excited about. There's around two(?) IRIAF schemes that can be made based of off the IIAF green cheatline, a couple of Saha Air hybrid schemes and then the current IRIAF scheme. I've been pushing for the earlier schemes to be made but as no IRIAF 747's have ever been made in the scale, I wouldn't mind either.

 

[YesterAirlines]

My earlier comment about an Iranian example has aged well, as Patriot Models has announced a twinset of two IIAF 747 tankers. One in the TWA interm livery and one in proper IIAF colors. Seems to have been commissioned by the IIAF Museum, given how their logo is on the box art.View attachment 41118
A quick interaction with the owners of Patriot Models also revealed plans for an IRIAF variant for the future, one that I am very excited about. There's around two(?) IRIAF schemes that can be made based of off the IIAF green cheatline, a couple of Saha Air hybrid schemes and then the current IRIAF scheme. I've been pushing for the earlier schemes to be made but as no IRIAF 747's have ever been made in the scale, I wouldn't mind either.

Not commissioned by, but just assisted by the IIAF Museum I believe.

Coming as a twinpack the price is somewhat eye-watering £124.95 ($161). I do think Patriot are rather pushing it with the pricing, especially when the HX 747 is very cheap (rmb188 - about £20 / $26) to buy in China. So basically here you're paying about £80 / $100 extra for a nice box and a plastic attached fueling boom.

 

[planes_on_a_shelf]

Not commissioned by, but just assisted by the IIAF Museum I believe.

Coming as a twinpack the price is somewhat eye-watering £124.95 ($161). I do think Patriot are rather pushing it with the pricing, especially when the HX 747 is very cheap (rmb188 - about £20 / $26) to buy in China. So basically here you're paying about £80 / $100 extra for a nice box and a plastic attached fueling boom.

What is the Patriot pricing like in CN?

 

[YesterAirlines]

What is the Patriot pricing like in CN?

It is variable. It isn't unusual for models to be cheaper in China. Looking at the 767-400s for example and on Taobao they cost:



That's about $45 / £34 (and still about rmb 70 more than a standard Panda 767-400)

That model sells for £54.95 in the UK. Can't see it for sale anywhere else. I know that Patriot have been asking for high MSRPs to Western retailers.

I can't see the Iranians anywhere on Taobao. Patriot certainly seem to be going down the scarcity is a selling point way of working. Restricting which retailers can sell their models and keeping the prices high.

 

[Mark22]

Having lots of detail and accuracy is great ofcourse, but there's a point where the price is just too high for a 1:400 model plane.

 

[planes_on_a_shelf]

I know that Patriot have been asking for high MSRPs to Western retailers.

SO it's not only western retailers - even over at MHH - see the example below:

Panda self-branded AA & DL MD-11 - 185 & 180 MYR (Panda prices are always super competitive!)
C-Models branded CI MD-11 - 225 MYR (C-models usually has a good 20-25% premium)
Patriot branded FM MD-11 - 260 MYR!!! (~1.5 times Panda's self-branded ones!)

All of Patriot's models are super pricey - 2 of the Apolo A380s = 1 Shanghai Cargo MD-11!

 

[BaguetteCollector]

Patriot Models just posted two photos on their facebook page

 

[Phantom]

... accuracy is great ofcourse, but there's a point where the price is just too high for a 1:400 model plane.

I'd be willing to pay a few dollars extra if that accuracy would be there at least. I fail to see it.
I've a feeling this is milking the (western) collectors just a bit more after all the sensation around these 747 models.

 

[planes_on_a_shelf]

I'd be willing to pay a few dollars extra if that accuracy would be there at least. I fail to see it.
I've a feeling this is milking the (western) collectors just a bit more after all the sensation around these 747 models.

They're as expensive in Asia (I'm not counting CN as I'm unaware of that topography) - so the assertion of 'milking the Western collector' is perhaps misplaced.
I've checked in stores in South Asia - and EU/UK.
Yes EU is more expensive because of VAT idk, but on two of my preferred stores - Bedfordshire in the UK, and MyHobbyHouse in Malaysia - the prices match. Surprisingly, some are cheaper on Bedfordshire, and vice versa too

 

[mike_charlie_lima]

What is the Patriot pricing like in CN?

PT has only released few 747s and DC-10s and 767s so far.
and depending on the configurations, whether a baseline model like 767 is somewhat around NG's price point (320+CNY), or a heavily modded 747s like SCA would cost much more (480+CNY). despite that first model KC-33 is really cheap (250+CNY) but only limited 150pcs. since then the price has gone up quite a bit.
in terms of the IIAF duo set, it's the 2025HEC(Hobby Expo China) limited edition which means you cannot order online through retailer on Taobao, only able to buy onsite and the admission ticket is around 100CNY, and you have to queue early for it (daily ~50pcs limited) to be able to buy at retail of 690CNY (set) which I consider is already quite a bargain. the total number is limited to 350 sets and rumor says only 150 units are for CN market and the rest can go to overseas retailers like MHH so definitely stay alert for their email updates.
like @abdulmohiuddin has said PT is likely to release another IIAF 747 tanker (5-8103 perhaps?) as individual model but until further announcement there is no more details.

​

 

[planes_on_a_shelf]

PT has only released few 747s and DC-10s and 767s so far.
and depending on the configurations, whether a baseline model like 767 is somewhat around NG's price point (320+CNY), or a heavily modded 747s like SCA would cost much more (480+CNY). despite that first model KC-33 is really cheap (250+CNY) but only limited 150pcs. since then the price has gone up quite a bit.
in terms of the IIAF duo set, it's the 2025HEC(Hobby Expo China) limited edition which means you cannot order online through retailer on Taobao, only able to buy onsite and the admission ticket is around 100CNY, and you have to queue early for it (daily ~50pcs limited) to be able to buy at retail of 690CNY (set) which I consider is already quite a bargain. the total number is limited to 350 sets and rumor says only 150 units are for CN market and the rest can go to overseas retailers like MHH so definitely stay alert for their email updates.
like @abdulmohiuddin has said PT is likely to release another IIAF 747 tanker (5-8103 perhaps?) as individual model but until further announcement there is no more details.

​

Thanks so much for this detailed info!
Yes the IIAF duo is already listed for pre-orders on Bedfordshire since some time.
MHH doesn't do pre-orders for PT so yes will keep a look out for it

It's not within my criteria, regardless of how gorgeous it is - and it's too expensive for my 'just because' section right now. So yeah let's see

 

[abdulmohiuddin]

PT has only released few 747s and DC-10s and 767s so far.
and depending on the configurations, whether a baseline model like 767 is somewhat around NG's price point (320+CNY), or a heavily modded 747s like SCA would cost much more (480+CNY). despite that first model KC-33 is really cheap (250+CNY) but only limited 150pcs. since then the price has gone up quite a bit.
in terms of the IIAF duo set, it's the 2025HEC(Hobby Expo China) limited edition which means you cannot order online through retailer on Taobao, only able to buy onsite and the admission ticket is around 100CNY, and you have to queue early for it (daily ~50pcs limited) to be able to buy at retail of 690CNY (set) which I consider is already quite a bargain. the total number is limited to 350 sets and rumor says only 150 units are for CN market and the rest can go to overseas retailers like MHH so definitely stay alert for their email updates.
like @abdulmohiuddin has said PT is likely to release another IIAF 747 tanker (5-8103 perhaps?) as individual model but until further announcement there is no more details.

​

Wes Coast Diecast also has the set available for preorder, albeit at an eyewatering $230 CAD. It does have flaps down and flaps up(with removable gear) as options.

May 2025 Release Patriot Model Imperial Iranian Air Force Boeing 747-1

1/400 Scale Made by Patriot Models Diecast model Fully assembled Preorder ETAs are estimates, not guarantees. If you'd like your in-stock items shipped first, please get in touch with us for an additional shipping charge.

westcoastdiecast.ca

I have been trying to get Patriot to release an IRIAF example, particularly this scheme, as it would only require a few modifications livery wise.

There are at least 3 schemes that can be made still, including an IIAF tanker itself so I would be optimistic for an IIAF tanker, although I wouldn't be surprised if they don't release another one in the future. Keep your fingers crossed, hope for the best.