My first project is a modified Corps tank. I call the new vehicle the "Cobra Annihilator." (I don't think that name was used by Hasbro for another vehicle, at least the name doesn't appear on the YoJoe.com database.)
This vehicle is essentially Cobra's answer to the GI Joe Mauler, Equalizer, and MOBAT tanks. It is intended for a variety of purposes, including anti-armor, assault, infantry support and reconissance roles. It has a crew of three (commander, gunner, driver) and is armed with its main gun, two machineguns, and short-range missiles. I imagine it first complimenting existing units of HISS tanks by providing them with extra firepower. Ultimately, the goal would be to replace the HISS tanks with this vehicle as the HISS tanks are simply too vunerable (after all, they get disabled by rifle fire in the cartoon...)
I modified the Corps tank by repainting it in a tri-color cammo: black base with OD green and dark gray sprayed on top. (It is not quite the typical Cobra-style camoflauge, but is a bit more realistic and practical.) I modified the main gun by adding a spotlight and put seats and steering controls in the hull for the driver and forward gunner. I also made an opening engine/stowage compartment. The decals replicate those from the Hiss 3 tank from around 2000 and were purchased from www.cobrastickers.com.
The other GI Joe custom uses the True Heroes/PTE F-22. It is sort of a more realistic version of the Thunderwing. I used insignia for an X-30 Conquest repaint & Sky Patrol, purchased from www.cobrastickers.com. It is not the most scale or realistic plane, but still looks pretty cool to me
