The Phantom is probably one of the more frequently modeled aircraft as I see at least one or two at every show I attend. And why not? It is big, has a brutish look to it and was widely operated during its lifespan, which is still going on in several countries.

The British made the wise choice to operate the type for the RAF and RN, though they required British Spey engines and other unique equipment to be added. The Spey had more power than the J-79, but required more air so the intakes had to be enlarged. This resulted in an aircraft that could accelerate faster than the J-79 powered version, but was actually slower due to the larger frontal area of the intakes. The Phantom was also the last fixed wing fighter of the Royal Navy, operating with 892 Squadron for around 10 years before being handed over to the RAF.

This particular sheet has no fewer than 9 schemes for the Phantom FG.1 during various times of its long operational service. Aside from one set of markings for the Phantom Post Operational Conversion Unit, all others are from 892 Sq. The sheet clearly indicates which set of serials are to be used with which version. All the aircraft are in Extra Dark Sea Grey (EDSG) over White, though it should be noted that after a short time at sea the EDSG often faded to a lighter shade.

The instructions are excellent and include not only detail painting information, but exterior colors in FS 595, BS 381C, and several different paint company brands. The Hasegawa and Fujimi FG.1 kits are recommended, but those in the know will immediately bypass the Hasegawa offering as it is an ancient kit and really not up to standards. There are enough insignia to do one of the options with most stencils coming from the donor kit. The addition of other roundels will allow more options to be built.

Overall, a really outstanding sheet for the Phantom phan and one that you really should consider.

July  2005

Review sample courtesy of Jon Freeman. This sheet can be found at http://homepage.mac.com/daleclarke/Aviationworkshop/ and at quality hobby shops worldwide.

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