Short feature build by Paul Ainsworth
The Lightning in all her guises and variants is a well-documented and featured subject and one which captures the heart and imagination of enthusiasts and modellers alike and popular here in ‘SMN’ and showcased with Geoff’s superb in-depth build of the Sword T.5 version.
For this project, I’m tackling the dare I say ‘infamous’ Sword T.4 kit in 1/48 scale.
The plan is to complete the model as depicted in the above photo featuring XM974 ‘T-TANGO’ in the glorious 74 ‘Tiger’ Squadron markings.
English Electric Lightning XM974, nicknamed ‘T-TANGO’, was part of the Royal Air Force’s 74 “Tiger” Squadron. This squadron was known for its distinctive tiger-striped markings and its role in the UK’s air defense. The Lightning, with its impressive speed and capabilities, was a key part of 74 Squadron’s operations, particularly during their time based at RAF Leuchars in Scotland and later in the Far East.
The initial construction underway. Having just completed the Airfix F.6 kit the extra work involved with this limited-run rendition was readily apparent. The mating-pins and slots on the fuselage halves were more hindrance than help and sanded flush.
To obtain a better join I added bracing tabs from Plasticard. Suitable nose weight was added inside the Radar Bullet and also just behind the top of the Intake Duct. Some care and patience is required to get these parts fitted and aligned correctly.
The fit of the wing-halves was commendably good and the main flaps were added at this point and in a slightly ‘drooped’ position. The reasons for this were twofold.
I found they fitted best in that setting and also added a little extra feature.
The initial painting of the cockpit interior is taking place.
A bit of cosmetic surgery to try and improve the look of the auxiliary vent.
The kit’s recess was drilled out and a piece of fine plastic tubing then inserted through and trimmed diagonally.
Let the ‘buttoning-up’ begin. . .
The fuselage halves mated together satisfactorily due to the added bracing.
Try as I might the wing-to-fuselage joins were a different matter and despite my best efforts the resultant gaps were left.
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