This next new sheet is for a  quartet of Marine F-18s, all in the very fashionable FS 36320 over FS 36375 color scheme with a buff tip to the radome. The set allows the modeler to build three options and provides enough stencils to keep most happy. Amongst the neat decals are chaff/flare dispenser ones as well as landing gear placards. No kit is specified, but usually it is Hasegawa, though for some of these, I see no reason why the Hobby Boss kit could not be used (at least I think they do an F-18D). For most of these, if not all, there will need to be some modern updates made in terms of antennas, for instance. All are two seat F-18Ds.

First up is a VMFA-121 aircraft. This is the squadron commander's plane from late 2004 and has the black fin.

From VMFA-224 is another black tailed CO's bird. This one has the black on the inside top and front of the fin as well as it was marked in mid 2007..

The third and fourth options are from VMFA-533. You get a standard F-18D and the option to build it as an ATARS modified aircraft with the recce nose. Both of these options are from July 2003

Printed by Cartograf in Italy, the decals are sharply and crisply done. A separate sheet for slime lights is also included. As on the previous sheet, the gear placards markings are off and will be available at a later date.

The placement guide is quite complete and printed in full color. A very nicely done loadout chart is included to help with attaching things under wings.  There are also some smaller photographs of where landing gear decals and those that fit in wheel wells need to be placed. As I said, a most complete set and one that you really should consider for your next Hornet project.

Overall a fine sheet and my thanks to MAW Decals for the review sample. You can get yours direct from the link above.

October 2008

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