Decals are the next step in this now long overdue update, my apologies for the wait readers.
I’m always very optimistic when it comes to new manufacturers decals, as the last ones I was really worried about using turned out to be the best ones I had ever used! (Kinetic’s lovely F-86 Sabre in 1:32nd scale)
These are not quite as good but still settle onto the surface flawlessly, but only with a little help from good old Micro Sol!
The small stencil data is very crisp and clear in 72nd, and have little carrier film.
Weapons
Weapons now, and the most interesting feature of this aircraft is the fact it carried its air to air weaponry inside the cavernous internal bay.
6 X AIM-4 Falcon missiles were carried as a standard interceptor payload although on some occasions 1 Falcon missile would have been carried with a nuclear warhead fitted. This was to be fired directly into the oncoming Soviet bomber formations and detonate in the centre of the bombers hopefully destroying them and also sending an EMP (Electro Magnetic Pulse) wave to knock out the remaining bombers not caught in the initial explosion.
The 3 front pylons were sprayed with Interior Green as were the rear pylons; the front ones are fitted in the un-deployed pose and the rear ones are going to be in the deployed position.
Fitting the undercarriage
Before I can add the weapon pylons I need to fit the undercarriage, this is very straightforward and all the gear fit perfectly with no problems.
The weapon bay doors are now fitted and really do look great and give the ‘102 a menacing look whilst sat on the ground. And to all those eagle eyed people out there, I’ve glued the doors on the wrong side, in my defence; I was rather tired at the time!