One can always count on Yellowhammer to come out with an interesting sheet and this one is no exception. Right after the Falklands war in 1982, the British had to send one of its fighter squadrons to the islands to provide air defense. This left a gap in its NATO commitments and with the Tornado F.2/3 still being developed, it was decided to obtain surplus USN F-4Js and 15 were ordered. Reworked at NAS North Island and painted in some rather odd shades of grey, these were delivered in late 1984. Subsequently they were repainted in 'normal' colors and served for many years until replaced by surplus British Phantoms once other units started re-equipping with Tornados.

The Yellowhammer sheet provides markings for any one of 8 aircraft , including one that was specially painted for the 1988 Tiger Meet in Italy. The decals are very nicely printed and perfect for those wanting to do something a bit unusual. Any of the Tamiya F-4J kits will do nicely for this project as the aircraft were virtually unchanged when in British hands. The only mod will be that there was a periscope installed on several airframes where the little window between the canopies goes. Check your references to see if the aircraft you are doing has this.

As always, a comprehensive instruction sheet is provided, offering all sorts of good information to help you make the best model you can.

Review copy courtesy of YellowHammer Models

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