Royal Air Force Update
2013-14

Xtradecal, 1/72 scale

Reviewed by Mark Davies

Xtradecal's 1/72 scale DH.82a Tiger Moth Pt.1 is available online from Squadron.com

The decals reviewed here cover a diverse selection of current RAF types, several of which are adorned with colourful and eye-catching special schemes. I would be surprised if most builders of modern types did not find at least one or two schemes to spark their interest in this sheet.

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The decals are supplied in Xtradecal’s usual A5 polythene zip-lock bag. The instructions are nicely produced in colour, and clearly indicate markings placement. A brief note regarding the aircraft and its station location is given for each subject. Unsurprisingly, a list of Xtracolor paint codes is also provided for the colours required.

The decals look to be superbly printed and with excellent colour density.

The set reviewed here covers eleven options; all of which are quite appealing in my opinion. The subjects are:

• Typhoon FGR.4, ZK342, 6 Sqn, with desert camo on fin and spine;

• Typhoon FGR.4, ZK343/BX, 29 Sqn, with black fin with Squadron logo,

• Typhoon FGR.4, ZK348/FN, 1Sqn;

• Typhoon FGR.4, ZK308 TP-V, 29 Sqn with D-Day stripes;

•  “Poppy” Tucanos, ZF140 and ZF244, 72 Sqn, Flt.Lt Dave Kirby, RAF Linton-on-Ouse;

• Tornado GR4, ZA412, 617 Sqn, 70th Anniversary 2013;

• Hawk T.1, XX264, 2014 Red Arrows with 50th Anniversary fin markings;

• Puma HC.2, ZJ995/P, 230 Sqn, in overall black;

• F-35B, ZM137, Fort Worth;

• RC-135W Rivet Joint, ZZ66, 51 Sqn, RAF Waddington (serial numbers for ZZ665 and ZZ666 also included). Modeler’s notes for this option include advice on the need for different engines to those supplied with the base kit, and that the modeler must decide whether to use US Insignia Blue or black serial numbers (both are supplied) as photographic evidence is unclear on this point.

These are superbly produced decals. They provide some interesting and colourful options for a variety of current RAF subjects.

Highly Recommended.

Thanks to Hannants for this sample.

Text and Images Copyright © 2015 by Mark Davies
This Page Created on 13 February, 2015
Last updated 13 February, 2015

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