Radar picket ships first came into being during World War II to aid in the Allied advance to Japan. The ships were equipped with sophisticated radar-stations used to increase the radar detection range around a force to protect it from surprise attack. In the 1950's the US Navy was assigned the task of extending the DEW Line (Distant Early Warning) seaward. To accomplish this task the Navy looked for a ship that would offer a stable platform for all of the electronics and radar that would be needed to be carried aboard ship. The type of ship decided on was World War II Liberty Ships, This new class of ship would be called the Guardian Class and they would be classified as YAGR. Sixteen conversions were completed.
USS Guardian (AGR-1)
USS Lookout (AGR-2)
USS Skywatcher (AGR-3)
USS Searcher (AGR-4)
USS Scanner (AGR-5)
USS Locator (AGR-6)
USS Picket (AGR-7)
USS Interceptor (AGR-8)
USS Investigator (AGR-9)
USS Outpost (AGR-10)
USS Protector (AGR-11)
USS Vigil (AGR-12)
USS Interdictor (AGR-13)
USS Interpreter (AGR-14)
USS Interrupter (AGR-15)
USS Watchman (AGR-16)
Any service era or vessel configuration - We can build a model of them all - your pick.
We offer our Radar Picket Ship Models in several size/scale offerings for easy ordering and selection. However, if you would like your model made in a size other than those sizes listed, please contact us with your request. Custom orders are our specialty!
Our models are made-to-order, meaning that we do not stock any pre-made models. Only when a customer tells us the size and/or scale desired do we build the model. Each model is exquisitely crafted by our master model builders and comes fully assembled with a solid hull - hand carved from kiln-dried mahogany. Other parts are made from a variety of woods, putty, resin and metals. Every model includes pedestals, mounted on a polished mahogany base board. Options include keel block mounting, waterline models, nameplates, ships seals and ribbons, and weathering paint schemes.
The model build time is generally 16 weeks from receipt of the order and deposit. The normal procedure is a 50% deposit with the commissioning, with the balance due prior to shipping. Note that prior to shipping, we take a series of photos of the model and send them to you for final review and approval – so you know exactly what your model will look like and allow for any necessary modifications. Once you have approved your model, we’ll collect the final balance and she will be shipped in a robust shipping crate and insured for your protection.
We offer a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee: In the unlikely event you are not completely satisfied with your model and wish to return it, notify us within 7 days of the model delivery and we will issue a refund or exchange.
FREE SHIPPING in the USA - Note that our model prices include shipping and insurance within the USA.
Shipping costs outside the USA will depend on the model size ordered and shipping destination. You will be responsible for any applicable taxes or duties, based on the commercial invoice value for the model.
Add a museum-like touch to your model display - Consider our protective display case option. Keep fingers and dust away - forever! Please visit our Display Case page to see our selection.
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