Feature Article with Paul Ainsworth
(Photo: English Electric Lightning F-6 XR773 ’N’ of No 56 Squadron RAF landing. Credit to original photographer)
Introduction
The Lightning is one of those much-loved iconic types that needs no special introduction suffice to say there’s a plethora of information, history and photographs of every description here in SMN and on the internet together with numerous publications. The type truly took the RAF into the supersonic age.
And before we get started, here’s a look at how this project turned out…
The plan…
The first-release of the Airfix kit will be used for this project including the original kit decals which feature 56 Squadron markings as an option.
I purchased this kit for the princely sum of £4-99p during the final stock clearance at Beattie’s prior to their closure. Read the ticket!
Primarily an ‘out of box’ build the model will feature some added homemade details like:
- Intake cover
- Pitot tube and cover
- Removable cockpit access ladder.
The only aftermarket product will be a replacement resin ejection seat.
On with the build…
Beginning with the cockpit interior as always and using the kit decals on the instrumentation as instructed. Nose-weight was added inside the radar bullet.
With these internal items fixed in position the main airframe construction could proceed with good pace. After the obligatory remedial work on seams and reinstating lost recessed detail due to the preparatory work the model received a first-stage priming coat of Mr.Surfacer 1200 Grey Acrylic/Lacquer applied straight from the rattle can.