If you like the big 'uns, then this sheet will undoubtedly come in quite handy. It is for the KC-135A/Q Stratotanker. The only kit made of this plane is from AMT. While it has been out of production for many years, it isn't impossible to find. As with all these large aircraft, finding a place to put is usually the biggest problem! Most of the common insignia and other markings will have to come from the kit decal sheet or aftermarket sheets.

The first aircraft is from the 11 ARS and is in the overall corroguard or painted aluminum finish. This one is a bit unusual in having a shark mouth. Typical of 1972, there are no tail markings on the plane.

Next is a 22 ARW plane from March AFB, circa1988. This one is called 'Casey 15' in honor of the now defunct 15th AF. You may notice on this 1987 picture, that the engine covers seem to be white and the intakes seem highly polished. It also looks as if the boom and housing are white as they are certainly lighter than the rest of the plane. You'll note that the black area around the cockpit windows has not been painted in this picture, nor has the 15th AF badge been added on the starboard side of the nose.

From the 509 BW, is this one called 'Spirit of the Seacoast', also from 1988. Like the previous aircraft and the one following, it is in overall ADC grey FS 16473.

The lone KC-135Q is this one from the 9 SRW at Beale AFB. The only difference between an A and a Q is the fuel that is carried, the Q models carrying the special fuel needed for the SR-71.  As you can see from the two photos, there is no external way to tell an A from a Q  unless you read the data plate.

Finally, the 'vomit comet' from NASA. This demilitarized 135a is in the NASA scheme of 1986 with the upper surface painted white and a a nice medium blue cheatline (which you will have to paint).

Five really nice schemes for your next 135.

Review sheet courtesy Three Guys Replicas

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