AOA Decals returns to the Intruder for this next set of markings. It is quite an ambitious undertaking considering this set is designed for the Trumpeter 1/32 A-6 Intruder kit. There are four large sheets for this as you are provided the markings for any one of sixteen different options. These are all A-6A, A-6B, or KA-6D aircraft that operated during the Vietnam War.

The set covers four units, several of which made multiple deployments. I'll start off with the Marines. VMA(AW)-224 Bengals have markings for five options when aboard the USS Coral Sea during 1971/72. This includes 3 A-6A, 1 A6B, and 1 KA-6D. One of the A-6As is the CAG bird. This also completes, along with their first set, those USMC units that operated in or off the shores of Vietnam with the Intruder.

Also including a CAG bird is one of the two A-6A options for VA-95 'Green Lizards' while on the the Coral Sea in 1973.

VA-165 made a lot of deployments and we have four options for this unit. An A-6A from the USS Ranger during 1967/68, Another A-6A from the 68/69 deployment on the same boat. An A-6A from the USS America Deployment in 1970 and a CAG A-6A from the 1971/72 cruise with the USS Constellation.

VA-196 has five options. An A-6A from the USS Constellation in 1968/69, another A-6A from the USS Ranger in 1969/70, an A-6A and A-6B with the USS Enterprise cruise of 1971/72 and finally a KA-6D with the same boat in 1972/73.

There is a full stencil suite and any differences in stencil markings on these planes is included. Markings for MERs and fuel tanks are also included. Those wanting to do more than one plane from this set can purchase additional stencil sheets (32-002). The instruction sheet is considerable and quite detailed. You get not only information on each specific aircraft, but also a complete stencil diagram and load-out diagram. An information sheet on how to make for a more accurate model is also included as Trumpeter did not get it all correct. The decals themselves are superbly printed by Cartograf so you know you are getting the best.

If you have this big kit and were looking for some great markings options, well here you are. I am sure these will eventually be released in 1/48 and 1/72 scale for those who model in those scales.

September 2015

Thanks to AOA Decals for the review sheet. You can find this sheet at this link.

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and fairly quickly, please contact the editor or see other details in the Note to Contributors.