Canadair CP-107 "Argus" Maritime Patrol Aircraft

10733 - Special markings for retirement

2011-12-28T05:18:00.000-08:00

This was the final marking scheme for 10733. This aircraft's last operational flight with VP415 was on 11 Aug 1975 with Capt Chris Squire at the yolk.

My sincere thanks to Carl Pedersen for providing the reference photo of my favorite Argus (10733) resting at the scrapper at the Saskatoon Airport.

~Rob

Argus Book is ready now.

2011-09-11T05:26:00.000-07:00

Get your copy now or be disappointed. They are selling out fast. After you have your copy, I am available for custom remarques if you want some pencil art from the artist in your book.

~Rob

Argus Book ... it's almost ready!

2011-08-06T19:14:00.001-07:00

Well...it's been more than 3 years in the making and, after a few delays due to technical hiccups, it's pretty much gone to press! The extra time allowed Cary and Bert to add more content (including a this new Argus painting commissioned by Cary for the book as another tribute to his late father, and Crew 1 Gropers Aircraft Captain, Gary Baker).

This 1st (very limited) edition is a STEAL at $59.95! it's selling out FAST so I suggest you go on-line to order your copy today to avoid disappointment.

Go see Bryler publications at: http://www.brylerpublications.com/upcoming.php

~Rob

722 for FS2004 gets new Main Gear

2011-04-25T05:15:00.001-07:00

New Bogies and wheels.

Rob

Raw ... Wet .... POWER!

2011-04-09T17:14:00.001-07:00

CP-107 from VP415 "Swordfish" Squadron (CFB Summerside) claws at the sky on a typically rainy night en route to an Atlantic patrol. This 18x30 inch piece would look great in your Den wouldn't it? Trouble is...it belongs to my wife!
So...isn't it time you ordered one for yourself?

Rob
MightyArgus@gmail.com

Playing with Photoshop....Argus in Wet Power!

2011-04-03T04:56:00.000-07:00

This is a screenshot from FS2004 of the Argus Mk1 I produced. It's heavily Photoshopped to depict a Wet Power take-off in the rain at night. Memories!

Rob

Night Stalker!

2011-04-02T03:22:00.000-07:00

719 from VP415 climbs out from CFB Summerside circa 1969. Ahhh the memories.

BTW - The Argus book will soon be ready for print. I'll post more info as soon as it is available. You'll want this book...it's a WINNER!

Rob

Argus Book is coming!!!

2011-03-30T04:30:00.000-07:00

Here's another image for the book. Stay tuned for details on this GREAT book! You're gonna LOVE it!

Rob

Argus Mark 2 - 10742

2010-12-06T18:53:00.000-08:00

Nice 'n' Grimy!

Rob

Flaps...

2010-11-13T05:25:00.001-08:00

Trying to wrap my brain around THIS issue lately! OHMYGAWD this was TOUGH..but I do like the results! Comments?

Rob

Crests anyone? VP415 - Crew 1 ... The GROPERS

2010-10-30T06:16:00.001-07:00

This was VP 415's Crew 1 Crest in the late 1970's; the "Gropers."

Toying around a few 415 crests...from my "home" Argus Squadron.
Each letter is a hand-made separate vector shape so, like all of my computer generated drawings, it's very labor intensive.

Why Crew 1? My Uncle, Harold G, was the TACCO ... so there's a little personal connection I suppose...and...the Groper is a neat fish! I understand this crest was deemed to be -ahem- "inappropriate" by the brass and it's use was disallowed...only to get re-approved later again! YA GOTTA LOVE THAT SPIRIT OF TRADITION PEOPLE!!!

Comments?

8^D

Rob

More work on Argus nose section and seat

2010-10-23T04:31:00.000-07:00

Take #2 --- Sunday 24 Oct 2010

Hi folks,

Yes, it's been awhile but the weather is getting chilly so...I'm back at at again. This time it's the plexiglass nose and seat, etc. I'm also finishing up the Polar Bear motif that some argus aircraft received when assigned to Northern Patrols (NORPATS). Feel free to let me know what you think. Anyone have any Argus pics to share?

Send to planesandtrains@gmail.com if you do.

I also welcome any comments you have on the nose section to make it better.

Thanks for visiting!

Rob

What a neat place...in North Dakota!

2010-09-22T16:10:00.000-07:00

Here's yours truly yesterday enroute north from Fargo, North Dakota, USA!!!

Rob

Front View Argus736

2010-06-11T14:14:00.000-07:00

Here's a draft sample of what will go in the new book. This Argus Mark 2, 10736, has just landed.

Rob

Front View update ... propellers

2010-06-05T20:40:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek at the inboard engine model...hope you like it.

Rob

CP-107 Mark1 10717 - chocked

2010-05-31T04:08:00.000-07:00

Here's the Mark 1. Features include: Static propellers, Extended landing gear, wheelchocks, empty Nose Observers seat and gust locks enabled in ailerons.

Rob

10733 ... with static props

2010-05-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

Mk1 10717 is coming next.
Rob

Landing Gear anyone????

2010-05-29T14:39:00.000-07:00

Open Weapons bays and gust locks too of course.

Made especially for the new book.

Rob

20714 CEPE Bullpup Missle Trials

2010-05-26T19:46:00.001-07:00

Vintage RCAF at work...20714 with CEPE testing Bullpup underwing missles. Note extra antennae inder the belly and tail.

Rob

SLARgus - MPEU 10728

2010-05-24T06:42:00.000-07:00

This is a profile depicting MPEU Argus Mk2 10728 trial fitted with APS-94D Side Looking Airborne Radar (SLAR) for mapping.

Rob

Update - Front View

2010-05-16T05:36:00.000-07:00

It's nearing completion. Note new props, shadows, nose observer and , of course, grime!
This is 1 of 3 a special drawings of 10736 for an upcoming book on the CP-107. Watch here for more info over the Summer!

Rob

Front View CP-107 Mark 2

2010-05-08T04:44:00.000-07:00

Working on more detail on the front and top views for the Argus book...

Rob

20718 - ACU Argus

2010-04-14T16:36:00.000-07:00

This Argus Mark 1, XV 718, the other Mark 1 assigned to the Argus Conversion Unit (ACU) in Greenwood. New Argus Aircrew learned their craft in either this aircraft or XV 719 (below), also from the ACU at RCAF Station Greenwood, NS. The ACU painted their flags higher on the tail than all the other fleet for some unknown reason. Also, the fuselage roundel did not touch the Quad reversing flash like all other unit's Argus aircraft. XV 718 sported standard block Royal Canadian Air Force lettering. This is one of two aircraft -the other was 20719- I have seen (in photos) with Maritime Air Command non-standard lettering...Black with Red Shadowing.

Argus Conversion Unit - Greenwood, NS, "XV 719"

2010-04-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

This one is interesting. This Argus Mark 1, XV 719, was from the Argus Conversion Unit (ACU) in Greenwood. New Argus Aircrew learned their craft in either this aircraft or XV 718, also from the ACU at RCAF Station Greenwood, NS. The ACU painted their flags higher on the tail than all the other fleet for some unknown reason. Also, the fuselage roundel did not touch the Quad reversing flash like all other unit's Argus aircraft. XV 719 sported unique Royal Canadian Air Force lettering as well. It was Black with Red shadows! This aircraft as well as XV718 also has Maritime Air Command non-standard lettering...Black with Red Shadowing. 718 had the more standard RCAF lettering above the flash, unlike 719 that had lettering that broke the flash. As far as I know, 719 was the only aircraft to sport this type of RCAF lettering.

AETE Marked Bird 10724

2010-03-19T18:48:00.000-07:00

This is based on a photo of 10724 under control of the Aerospace Engineering Test Establishment (AETE). Note the famous test marking "X" on the vertical tail.

~Rob

The first Argus Mark 2 - 20723

2010-03-08T04:48:00.000-08:00

This was the first Argus delivered sporting the smaller chin radome containing the ASV-21 search radar.

~Rob

The first Canadair CL-28 Argus 20710

2010-02-22T04:27:00.000-08:00

Wearing a non-standard fuselage flash, fin flash and VN unit codes of 405 (MP) Squadron, this is how the first Canadair CL-28 Mark 1 appeared in 1957 at Canadair's Cartierville Quebec airport. She didn't stay this clean for long!

~Rob

SP 711 - Fresh off the Canadair Assembly line!

2010-02-20T19:40:00.000-08:00

Almost done...VN 710 Prototyp is in the works now.

~Rob

More detail on the bare metal Argus...

2010-02-19T15:57:00.000-08:00

More coming soon...

~Rob

Back to the profile drawings...404 Sqn "SP 711"

2010-02-15T19:22:00.001-08:00

Another new profile. This time it's 20711 wearing SP unit codes of the Greenwood Wing. I'm making accurate patches of bare metal from engineering drawings and photos of bare metal aircraft circa 1958.

Rob

The final image of this painting...

2010-01-24T07:05:00.000-08:00

Please click on the image for a larger version. Right click to save it. (Please do show your friends...thanks.)

I don't have a name for this painting yet but I'm open to suggestions. This is a depiction of CP-107 Argus Mark 1, 10712, in 407 "Demons" markings and Warm Yellow propeller spinners. There is a Winged Trident on the tail of this aircraft (the Squadron markings). The real aircraft is on display at 19 Wing, Comox, BC. It is 18" by 30" on 1/4" MDF. This piece was painted with Golden professional grade artist's Acrylics. The background was done in the new "Open" line, which has a longer drying time to permit improved wet-in-wet blending techniques. It also has a nice warming glaze applied to enhance color depth and quality. The aircraft was drawn over the top of the background (as usual) and painted in the regular Golden Acrylics. I hope you like it.

Like most of my art, this painting is available for sale. I ship worldwide. E-mail for a quote. Thanks.

~Rob

Painting progress photo...#2

2010-01-23T08:17:00.000-08:00

Click on the thumbnail for a larger image

Here's the second installment of the 407 Demon painting. See if you can spot the differences...more to follow.

~Rob

New painting ... finally...

2010-01-22T19:45:00.000-08:00

This time it's a VP407 "Demon" machine from CFB Comox, BC. Here's a shot during the blocking in stage. Man this stuff is fun!

More tomorrow.

~Rob

New CP-107 painting is in progress...

2010-01-21T19:45:00.000-08:00

...working on a new CP-107 Mark 1 from 407 "Demon" Squadron, CFB Comox, BC. Here's the initial background to set the mood. More progress photos coming.

~Rob

Another Argus screenshot from FS2004

2010-01-16T05:24:00.000-08:00

Short final!

~Rob

Canadair Argus for Microsoft Flight Sim FS2004?

2010-01-13T19:19:00.000-08:00

I've always dreamed about having the CP-107 for Microsoft's Flight Simulator 2004. It never came...so I made one! It has accurate R-3350 sounds (well...as accurate as I can find), animated split-fowler flaps, fully animated gear, opening Weapons Bays...and it only took thousands of hours to make! Still...it was fun...and now I should live in a Rubber Room!

~Rob

Take a look at THIS modelling! WOW!

2010-01-09T05:27:00.001-08:00

http://media.photobucket.com/image/canadair+argus/Vautour/Solid%20CP107%20Canadair%20Argus/DSCF4948.jpg?o=9

THIS guy has TALENT! These are in-progress photos on photobucket.com of a CP-107 Mk2 in 1/32 scale. Holy Crap this thing is BIG! It appears to be sitting on an IRONING BOARD!

~Rob

VP407 "Demons" Winged Trident - tail markings

2010-01-09T05:09:00.001-08:00

One for the West Coast Argus fans! Like most of the other tail art, this is a vector image created in Adobe Photoshop from scratch using a great photo provided by Tom Hildreth. Thanks again, Tom.

~Rob

RCAF Mark 1 - 20720

2009-11-24T14:28:00.000-08:00

Click on image for larger version

Here's a look at an RCAF Mk 1. This was the first Argus aircraft flown by 415 Squadron upon re-formation in 1961 at RCAF Station Summerside, PEI. Not doing much profile work these days...busy at the office...but I'll be back!

~Rob

10738 ... nose section details

2009-11-14T16:50:00.000-08:00

Click on the image for a larger verison
Here's a look at the front end, featuring the famous greenhouse nose of the CP-107.

~Rob

Small correction ...

2009-11-10T16:48:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Mr. Lavoie for pointing this error out. So...is this about right?

Rob

10738

2009-11-06T16:55:00.000-08:00

Click on the image for a larger version

This one is a VP415 machine. Not quite as clean as the 407 machine below...but still loveable...right??? This depicts 738 as I saw her at an airshow in the late 1970's at CFB Summerside while serving with the Swordfish Squadron. She retired out of Summerside in 1981.
I hope you like her.

~Rob

Back in action!

2009-11-04T15:25:00.000-08:00

Click on the image for a larger version

Well, I finally have my new machine back from the shop (I needed 4Gb more RAM!) and I'm ready to create.

Here's one of 2 prints I have made for my new friend, Tom Hildreth. Thanks to Tom, I have been able to make accurate vector graphics of the 415 Sydney Swordfish, the 407 Sqn Winged Trident, and the 14 Wing Eagle diving motif.

Here's 10721 from VP407, Comox, British Columbia. They really kept their machines clean...according to Pte Dan McIsaac at least! LOL

~Rob

Argus 20733 - Detail

2009-10-03T06:03:00.000-07:00

Click on the thumbnail for a larger image

Been waaaay too busy to tackle this these days, but here's another small sample.

~Rob

Greenwood Wing Aircraft Tail Markings

2009-09-23T14:22:00.001-07:00

Here's the 404/405 Squadron Tail markings. (Once again, thanks to Tom H for the great photo assistance!)

~Rob

One good Tern deserves another...

2009-09-18T19:12:00.001-07:00

Here's my latest little sub-project...the MPEU Arctic Tern. Once again, thanks to Tom for the help! 10728 is now available with this tail insignia as well.

~Rob

New 415 Swordfish

2009-09-12T14:30:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a photo graciously supplied by Tom Hildreth, I have been able to make a more realistic 415 Sqn "Sydney" Swordfish as it was actually stenciled on the 415 Sqn machines. This one is from 10738.

~Rob

Argus 20733 - Final version - for sale

2009-09-03T15:50:00.001-07:00

New prop spinners and a few details at the front of the aircraft have been corrected (SARAH AE, ASH-34 sensor and others).

This drawing is now available as an 11 x 17 inch print for $29.95 + $15 S+H. (Larger sizes are available upon request.) I accept PayPal or Canadian Bank or Postal Money Orders.

As well, I am now offering any Mark 1 or Mark 2 from this general era. You can choose this number style or the older ones. So, any tail number and any squadron in the Quad-reversing fuselage flash is available. All prints are made on 80 lb stock on Glossy paper, shipped flat in acid-free tissue and foam core board via Express Post to Canadian Addresses. international shipping is also available. (rob.a(at_symbol)airforceartdotcom with your enquiries)

~Rob

Reworked items on a 407 Argus

2009-08-30T16:21:00.000-07:00

Reworked the prop spinners to beef them up. Thanks to Geoff Bennett for the constructive feedback. I actually have a 407 spinner in my possession, so I thought I'd better take a closer look. Yup...Geoff was 100% correct. My spinners WERE "anorexic!" I took a photo of the real deal and traced over the image in Adobe. Looking OK? What do you think?

~Rob
rob_dot_a_atsymbol_airforceart_dot_com

10711 - Argus Mark 1 - 407 Demons!

2009-08-27T18:12:00.000-07:00

Here's one for the West Coast Patrollers! 10711 sporting the snazzy 407 Demons winged trident. Like all the profiles, this one is custom made with very light weathering.

Rob

CP-107 Argus - Top View

2009-08-22T05:39:00.000-07:00

For the interested...I now have items listed at www.ebay.ca ...
... just search for CP-107 Argus or Look for "Item number: 280388110970"

Here's my latest effort, complete with the obligatory Oily grime the CP-107 was world famous (infamous?) for all over the wings! Look about right?

Keep watching for (frequent?) updates.

BTW...In the interest of true accuracy, I really, really need a close-up shot of the VP415 Swordfish as it was painted on the tails of Summerside aircraft. Got a good clear photo of the tail? Can you help????

Printed out the ill-fated 20727 and MPEU 10728 profiles today for the first time. They're looking good to me.

***NOTE***
Made-to-Order profiles will be available for purchase very soon. Stay tuned.

~Rob

CP-107 Argus 10717 - 449 Squadron

2009-08-21T18:37:00.000-07:00

Here's a rare bird indeed. It is a representation of 717 in 449 (Unicorn) Markings. This Squadron was responsible to train new CP-107 crews on the Argus from 1968 until about 1975(?). This unit's Heraldic Crest featured a Unicorn's head against a Forest Green circular background. The propeller spinners were painted dark green to match the Green in the Heraldic Crest. I believe that Mark2 Argus 10740 also had this marking scheme...but I'm not 100% sure. I have seen a photo of 717 painted this way.

Special thanks to Bill at CanMilAir decals for the Canadian Armed Forces Block lettering. BTW - If you have one of the 1/144 Welsh Models' Argus, CanMilAir decals has excellent decal sets to make your aircraft look it's very best!

~Rob

The one that started it all ... Argus 733

2009-08-16T15:05:00.000-07:00

Click on the image for a larger version

I was about 5 when I remember seeing 20733 painted like this in the Summerside Journal-Pioneer newspaper advertising the Summerside Air Force day. I was HOOKED! Who wouldn't be? A lot of neat visual stuff is featured on this profile depicting 20733 in about 1964. It was still new...and so was I!

~Rob

CP-107 Argus - Front View - progress

2009-08-15T18:02:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest on the front view. Not sure if I like the wing dihedral yet though...

~Rob

415 (MP) Sqn - Late RCAF Argus 719

2009-08-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

Here's a bit of an oddball scheme. For the curious...yes...I do have a photo of this aircraft in this paint scheme. Circa 1967(?).

~Rob

Early RCAF CP-107 Argus 20725

2009-08-10T17:49:00.000-07:00

Click on the image for a larger version

Here's what the old girl looked like when newly introduced into service with 405 (MP) "Eagle" Squadron at Royal Canadian Air Force Station Greenwood, Nova Scotia Canada. Bare metal overall with quad-reversing Red and White flash. This finish scheme also features the Canadian Ensign and White upper surfaces. Note that this aircraft did not receive the Red Search markings on the wings and horizontal Tail surfaces.

Late RCAF (20719) from 415 (MP) "Swordfish" Squadron, circa 1967 is next...this one looks strange, but I have a photo!

Per Ardua Ad Astra (Through adversity to the stars)

~Rob

Argus Update - New nose and more accurate details

2009-08-09T07:59:00.000-07:00

Click on the photo for a larger image.

OK...if you're like me, the empty glass nose section has been bugging you. The above shot features the latest round of updates. We have the clear nose lookout position occupied by your favoride crew member! Check it out against the inset older nose for reference. Corrections have been made to all drawings.

I also just realized the fuselage flash was 33 degrees vice 30 degrees...that too is now corrected. The Routine Nav window has been moved slightly forward as well.

When I started this project, I knew it would be time consuming but I never realized just how much! In for a penny...in for a pound I guess 'cause I'm not turning back now! Damn the torpedoes!

Rob

Maritime Proving and Evaluation Unit (MPEU)

2009-08-08T08:27:00.000-07:00

Click on the image for a larger verison

Here's an example from MPEU. This unit was tasked to evaluate new systems proposed for the Argus.

Taken from a 1976 photo (courtesy William Burns of the EXCELLENT CanMilAir decals), this aircraft has had the Magnetic Anomaly Detection (MAD) gear removed. Notice the tail stinger is absent on the aircraft. Also noteworthy is the temporary fairings on the 18 foot weapons bays and the MPEU symbol on the tail (an Arctic Tern).

I waited all YEAR as a young boy to see the Argus up close at the annual CFB Summerside Open House and Airshow. One year in particular found MPEU tasked to support the Open House with a Static bird. No tail stinger? I was shocked...but I got over it! LOL

~Rob

State-of-the-Art ASW Platform ... Canadair Argus!

2009-08-07T17:14:00.000-07:00

Click the thumbnail for larger, albeit low res, image.

This is what the first Argus looked like for her initial flight in 1957 from Cartierville airport, Quebec. The aircraft sported VN unit code and the shorted-lived non-standard fuselage flash and fin flash. Looked good ... kinda like a shiny new nickel. Not done yet though so stay tuned.....yes...things are missing from this drawing....

~Rob

Front view starts!

2009-08-05T19:15:00.000-07:00

In the beginning...there were circles.... 8^)

Rob

Another bloody Argus!!! 8^)

2009-08-04T19:13:00.000-07:00

Here's a pair including a new rendition of 10736. This represents the interesting paint scheme differences 20 years apart (1961-1981). Both machines sporting the 415 Squadron livery of the day.

~Rob

RCAF Variant - VP415's first Argus - 20720

2009-08-03T07:16:00.000-07:00

This is a pre-production sample of the first Argus delivered to 415 Squadron as photographed by Tom Gosling. Note the non-standard Maritime Air Command placement just below the cheat line (no, it's actually not a mistake). This example is early 1960's and is sporting the GP-12-b (Blue) Grey 1-2. Also need to find/make a correct Swordfish too. All in due course. This thing takes 30 seconds to open and save on my dual-core PC with 3Gb of RAM!

~Rob

Profile Drawing - Tail section detail

2009-08-02T10:10:00.000-07:00

This shot gives you an idea of the detail I am adding at this time. The master TIFF file for this Argus drawing is more than 250 Mb ... and GROWING!!!

Rob

First printed poster!

2009-08-01T12:17:00.000-07:00

Here's our first poster trial. This one is 18 x 24 inches and, IMHO, it turned our very well.

~Rob

How do I make these profile drawings????

2009-08-01T06:32:00.000-07:00

So...people are wondering just how I do this. Well, it's not really rocket science, but it DOES take a LOT of time, research and patience (none of which I have these days). The image above tells all. It's a matter of:

1. taking several good quality photographs as far away from the subject as you can.
2. Inserting said photos into a high quality 2-D drafting program that supports layers and
3. Creating vector shapes over top of the photo. (see image above).

The trick is to know how to manipulate the photos to correct for perspective distortion and other abberations. Yes, there's some good ol' fashioned winging it as well, but that gets kept to a minimum.

I have simplified the process because a magician never shows ALL the secrets to his tricks but, really, that's it in a nutshell! Bottom Line: You must know as much as you can about the subject and you must be ready to redo bad work over...and over...and over....you get the idea.

~Rob

Starboard and Port Side Profile Drawings - Late CAF

2009-07-31T05:31:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: Posters of the late CAF Mark 1 and 2 should be available for sale very shortly. The current (albeit fluid) plan is to produce (at least) 11 x 17 inch posters, but I'm open to suggestions. I am preparing a small questionnaire for potential buyers. I'll be asking you things like what details you would like on your Argus print (tail number, port or starboard side, Squadron markings, prop spinner color, date of the Argus scheme... you know...all the stuff that will make YOUR custom image special to YOU).

The cost isn't finalized yet but it will be very reasonable. So far, I have invested several hundred hours into this project and it's just the tip of the iceberg. I'm planning to make ANY Argus available from 1957 thru to 1981 available as an open edition (signed?), custom poster for you.

If this project interests you, please send me an e-mail (my address is embedded in the image) with "ARGUS PROFILE DRAWING" in the subject line. Once all the details are known, I'll send a mass mailing to all Argus nuts who I've heard from. Your responses and encouragement are important to keep this project alive. Pass it on!!!

Mark 1 sample now posted above with a detail view of that interesting countoured APS-20 Chin radome! Thanks for visiting. I hope you like the samples.

Stay tuned for more interesting posts in the near future!

~Rob

Getting very close....

2009-07-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

That's it for now. Here's a very low resolution draft for your perusal. Hope you like it (yes...I corrected the propeller spinners to be Red vice Blue for this VP415 Aircraft). Christina is tiring of being an Argus "widow" so that's all for now. Gonna take a rest now and revisit later to see if anything major is still missing from the master file. Comments from the Argus experts out there?????

~Rob

Argus Profile - Update 30 Jul 2009

2009-07-30T08:32:00.000-07:00

...more work done this morning. Mad stinger, numerous antennae, engine details, rudder, markings, windows ... and more. Also worked on the RCAF variant (you'll have to come back for that later ... ). Here's a draft teaser. Hope you like it. Nose details are next...followed by sun glint etc.

NOTE: For those of you, and I'm sure there are many, that feel the Argus as I have drawn is too clean...I will offer customization of this too. I'll make your copy of the old girl as dirty and grimy as you want!
~Rob

2009-07-29T07:14:00.000-07:00

Did a little more work today. The master file is getting BIG. I created proper numerals and the Mark 2 radome. Accordingly, here is a draft rendition of 10732 as I saw her in 1979 in my hometown of Summerside PEI. This aircraft served with VP415 from about 1961 thru to 1981 and is a CP-107, Mark 2. The key spotting feature of the Mark 2 Argus is the smaller chin radome housing the ASV-21 radar system. Aircraft serials in the 10723 thru 10742 series were all Mark 2 aircraft. The Mark 1 (depicted below) sported the larger chin radome to house the APS-20 radar. Those aircraft were numbered in the 10710 through 10722 series. More little details are now being added to the aircraft (various antennae, nose bubble details, bomb bay door lines, etc). Keep watching!

~Rob

Argus Profile!

2009-07-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

Updated drawing...engines, radome shadows, antennae, etc...28 Jul 09. Also...now have made a nice VP415 Swordfish (AKA "Sydney") in Vector format for my hometown birds...keep watching!

I admit it. I'm finished waiting for a half-decent CP-107 full color profile drawing so I'm DOING something about it...I'm making them myself! These drawings are long overdue in my opinion. Ultimately, I plan on producing EVERY color scheme throughout the Argus lifespan. EVERY Squadron and ANY tail number will be available (Ugh...I guess ya gotta die from something!). ..any color spinners and any special markings (I know those nasty 'Aussies" put a Kangaroo on an Argus one year!). Anyone have "Slargus" photos from MPEU??? Might as well be complete! For those Argus lovers out there who want a reasonably priced piece of my artwork I have a plan. If all goes according to said plan, and we all know that plans seldom survive initial contact with the enemy, I will gladly make these renderings available for sale as signed and open ended posters. Click on the image above for a larger version. NOTE: It isn't complete yet but I'm having fun adding some little 'bling' (check out those nacelles! LOL). The initial release should be available within the next 30 days. I welcome any ideas you have on this issue. I'm making very close use of prototype photos to ensure I make the most accurate drawing I can. As always, thanks for visiting.

~Rob

VP415 in the Early Days of Argus (20736)

2009-07-24T18:23:00.000-07:00

A cool Winter scene at the rear of 8 Hgr at RCAF Station Summerside finds Argus Mark 2, 20736 dropping off a passenger before heading back out on patrol over the North Atlantic in January, 1963. This one was made waaaay back in 1990! At that time, the Argus fleet had been retired for 8 years. Seems like yesterday. Humph...

~Rob

Argus 20733 Early RCAF

2009-07-19T07:38:00.000-07:00

Had fun with this one. It's late 1964, I'm a newborn and 415 Sqn is busy patrolling in Canadair Argus Mark 2 20733 (note the quad reversing flashes on the fuselage). I wanted to try something really dramatic with a square canvas so I went for it. Needed a tight crop for this rather 'in your face' painting too. Hope you like it.

~Rob (www.airforceart.com)

Out of the Murk

2009-07-01T15:06:00.000-07:00

The year was 1973 and 10725 is enroute home to Greenwood from Gibraltar...almost...there's a problem. NATO has been tracking the USSR's newest ASW Helicopter platform...and they've lost her in the fog! No trouble for VP404 and Argus 725! After locating the aircraft and completing a classic low photo pass, the Leningrad's crew has decided that Argus is too close for comfort. Leningrad is firing some Red flares to try to discourage the 404 Argus from performing the task at hand! This painting is about 4 feet wide and I really enjoyed making it. The art hangs in the Greenwood Military Aviation Museum at 14 Wing, Greenwood, Nova Scotia.

~Rob

On Top ... now...now...NOW

2009-06-19T14:30:00.001-07:00

This one was created to feature the interesting frontal view of the rather bulbous APS-20 Radome. The year is 1964 (my birth year) and the first Argus delivered to VP415 (Argus Mark 1, t/n 20720) is tracking a submerged Soviet submarine. It's early morning and once again we see my attempt at depicting a scenario that one couldn't really photograph. I'm simulating a very long telephoto shot here with really no vanishing point per se. The strong cropping combined with a strong vertical composition was intended to grab -and hold- your attention. We think it is a success in that regard. Do you? This piece hangs nicely at the end of a long hallway in low light. Moody! Any suggestions for future work? C'mon...challenge me. I dare ya! 8^)

~Rob

Air Cadet Memories

2009-06-13T17:23:00.000-07:00

It was a normal training night at CFB Summerside for 53 Sqn RC (Air)C. Yours truly joined Air Cadets for 2 reasons; to be closer to the Argus and, of course, the girls! But I digress...this image was a direct result of memories of one particular night when and the constant (and welcome) interruptions by the fighting Four Hundred and Fifteenth. Cpl Daryl Churchill finally threw in the towel and dismissed the class so we could go outside to watch the Argus doing her touch and go's (it was the right thing to, Daryl). I still remember the flames shooting over the wings as she split our eardrums time and time again rolling down Rwy24 in wet power! Hope you like it.

~ Rob

Greenwood Gets a Wake-up Call!

2009-06-09T09:07:00.000-07:00

It's some time in the early 1960's (note the ensign on the tail of 20722) and the good ol' boys from VP415 are at it again! This time they've just done a touch-and-go on Rwy 08 in Greenwood and are heading home for some well deserved rest after an Atlantic patrol. The gear sequencing isn't that bad...yet...as the Main bogies are (almost) in sync!

~Rob

Joining the Pattern

2009-06-05T14:21:00.000-07:00

OK, so this one is back lit too, but not TOO bad! CP-107 Argus Mark 1, T/N 10710 shares the pattern with another Argus on Rwy 26 in Greenwood, Nova Scotia. It's about suppertime and the sun is heading West as 710's crew enjoys some nice clear Blue skies, now that the storm has passed. Do you like the Blues and Greens in this one? How about the sun glint light off the cockpit area? This painting went to Kathy Leblanc's father for Christmas a few years back. She tole me he insisted on opening this gift first! He put all other gift unwrapping on hold until he went to his workshop, got his tools out and hung the painting on the wall! Now THAT's another Argus lover if you ask me! LOL.

~Rob

CP-107 Argus Web site

2009-06-03T11:29:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to say thanks to Bert Campbell for the link from his world-famous CP-107 Argus web site. Ever wondered what this growler sounded like? Check out the sound clip at Bert's great website -> http://www.geocities.com/cp107argus/

Thanks for stopping by and, BTW, there's another (older) painting image coming on Friday.
C'mon back!

~Rob

Night Ops

2009-06-01T14:42:00.000-07:00

Here's a night painting based on Tom Gosling's (AKA "da Goose") famous and classic night run-up photos in Summerside. This is just a little one I made for Tom to thank him for sharing his great photos with me.

Kinda ghostly isn't it with the bottom of the wings illuminated by the retracted landing lights eh? This was the situation in the photo!

I hope you like it.

I have plans for a new one with my Violet Oxide. Would you like to see one in this neat new-to-me color?

~Rob

Newest Painting

2009-05-30T17:20:00.001-07:00

Not varnished yet but here it is. This one is essentially monochromatic with Violet Oxide used as the base color. The challenge here is to make something look almost Sepia in nature for that historical feel...without the ugly Yellowish Brown tones! I particularly like the depiction of the morning sun. I think it is my best ever. I am especially pleased with the light rays peering through the storm front. It's almost angelic isn't it. Can't you just imagine the droan of the radial engines at cruise?

Observer Ron Hill is likely sitting in the bomb aimers station in this Mark I munching on Chocolate Chip cookies! (Take THAT, Ron! ... miss ya Buddy).

You know, it's sure hard to believe the old gal hasn't flown for 27 years. I remember the last flight ever. 10742 from Summerside flew overhead in Feb '82 with Wayne Griffith at the yoke. I'll never forget my sad thoughts as the familiar drone of Wright R-3350's faded into the West for the very last time....snif...ahem...that's enough of that now eh? LOL

Hope this one makes it into Cary Baker's new book on the Canadair Argus too.

Lot's hated her. I loved her.

~Rob

NEWEST ORIGINAL PAINTING BY ROB

2009-05-30T15:42:00.000-07:00

Introducing my newest painting! This is an 18X 30 painting, done in acrylic on mdf board. The painting was completed in May 2009. It has already been sold and is going into a private collection. It will be featured in an upcoming book on the Canadair Argus coming out in the next year or so.

The painting features VP 415 Mark 2 Argus 10736 departing in IFR conditions. Just a typical maritime day for the Argus. This aircraft served in Summerside, PE Canada from the early 1960's through to it's retirement in 1981 with the rest of the fleet. This painting, believe it or not, has been created with only 4 base colours. "GOLDEN ACRYLICS" Cerulean Blue, Paynes Gray, Alizerin Crimson & Teal Blue. This painting took approximately 2 weeks to produce working each night for several hours. A true labour of love for me. This is one of my best! I am particularly pleased with the glint reflection on the fuselage. I lit the subject this way in response to a potential customer commenting on the way I have backlit many subjects in previous works. This is usually done to create high contrast pieces which are easily seen past the viewing distance. Although this painting is lower contrast than normal I am satisfied with the way parts of the aircraft blend into the muddy sky just as this would happen in real life under these lighting conditions.

Several other paintings are planned for posting shortly, including my latest which will be complete tomorrow. This one {the newest painting} unlike 736 above, has extreme contrast and is monochromatic featuring a new colour I have just acquired for the first time. Check back often for new content!! This is a dynamic blog and will be updated daily!!!

I am always looking for source material for paintings. If you have digital pics to share I would appreciate any pics you have to offer!!! Lets work together to preserve wonderful memories of this classic Canadian Work Horse...the famous Canadair Tri Motor...the ARGUS.

Blue skies and a tail wind 'til next time!

Rob