Instead of making separate threads all over the place for my projects, I'm just going to create one mega continuous thread for explaining and showcasing all my work. Comments, suggestions, and even critisisms are welcome.
For starters, this whole year (2017) has been pretty busy for modeling work and things don't appear to be slowing down anytime soon. :o A recap of previous model projects.
Soviet Space Battlecarrier
http://www.whatifmodellers.com/index.php/topic,43422.0.html
https://www.flickr.com/photos/72147279@N06/albums/72157677182628013
Space Battleship Yamato Cosmo Falcon Fighter
http://www.whatifmodellers.com/index.php/topic,43430.0.html
https://www.flickr.com/photos/72147279@N06/albums/72157681620950566
ASF-X Shinden II Warwolf Squadron
http://www.whatifmodellers.com/index.php/topic,43504.0.html
https://www.flickr.com/photos/72147279@N06/albums/72157682005410906
Chinese J-35 FSW Prototype Fighter
http://www.whatifmodellers.com/index.php/topic,44219.0.html
https://www.flickr.com/photos/72147279@N06/albums/72157684820837662
MiG-37B Ferret-E Blood Wolves Squadron
http://www.whatifmodellers.com/index.php/topic,44237.0.html
https://www.flickr.com/photos/72147279@N06/albums/72157688175575396
French Stealth Fighter (Still needs decals, but will be finished before end of year.)
https://www.flickr.com/photos/72147279@N06/albums/72157685981825341
Japanese Horten 229
http://www.whatifmodellers.com/index.php/topic,44285.0.html
https://www.flickr.com/photos/72147279@N06/albums/72157686997402883
North Korean Ka-58 attack helicopter
http://www.whatifmodellers.com/index.php/topic,44317.0.html
https://www.flickr.com/photos/72147279@N06/albums/72157686639541740
And I just finally finished a 1/72 scale Revell Arado Ar 555 into a what if Soviet flying wing bomber. ;)
This is the 1/72 scale Revell German Arado Ar 555 "Amerika Bomber" model kit that has been made into a what if Soviet flying wing bomber instead. The Arado Ar 555 actually existed in World War 2, but only as a "paper design" that never went into production. My model whiff showcases what would have happened if the Soviets had captured the blueprints and design specifications at the end of the war and had created their own flying wing bomber for testing and/or production purposes in the late 1940's to early 1950's.
· Model is painted overall Testor Acryl Aluminum.
· Landing gear bays painted Testors Light Ghost Grey.
· Cockpit main color painted with Lifecolor RLM25 Bright Green.
· Bombs in bomb bay painted Testors Euro 1 Grey.
· Soviet red star decals from spare parts box.
· Guns painted Tamiya XF-56 Metallic Grey.
Soviet Arado Ar 555
https://www.flickr.com/photos/72147279@N06/albums/72157689763418616
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4476/24040576088_ff7cbd94a1_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4474/24040576098_84858aabf5_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4478/37844684916_f5a2fe1bf7_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4482/37861949432_5ca4e6e046_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4488/37892814751_3aa845fc76_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4502/37892814761_95b4ec6f32_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4487/37183349054_f4e611caa5_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4489/37183349084_3629ee458b_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4479/37635970710_542194ea36_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4445/37635970720_963a904f99_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4497/24041018178_06fabe000a_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4474/24041018248_a9aff3f3c9_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4502/24041043068_1079125210_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4503/24041043088_48f690e9d7_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4477/24041061438_333014db62_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4449/24041061348_f0815dc554_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4451/37893061351_77b1c305c2_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4458/37893061381_bfa640f8e4_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4504/37183567614_c9488d8e4d_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4489/37183567644_dbbcd78b77_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4488/37636143590_02af63bc51_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4478/37636143620_104209fded_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4463/37183645234_e46061cb5e_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4510/37183645264_b7640bf813_c.jpg)
Very believable in that scheme, nice job. :thumbsup:
What was its NATO code name though?
Quote from: PR19_Kit on October 24, 2017, 02:31:52 PM
Very believable in that scheme, nice job. :thumbsup:
What was its NATO code name though?
Now that you mentioned it, I don't have one. :o Guess I'll have to think of something, eh? :unsure:
That's cool!!! I like it alot.
Definitely looks worthy of the Red Star treatment!!
That Tupolev looks great! ;) :thumbsup:
Thank You, comrades! Your praise means much to the continued success of the Soviet motherland!
Other notes: I didn't detail the cockpit very much. Once the canopy portions are attached, you can't see much of the inside anyway. The rear tail gun does swivel from side to side. ;) But it doesn't raise or lower unfortuneately. :(
And now for my next trick............
My current project right now after finishing the Soviet Arado flying wing bomber is to build a display honoring aviation pioneer Jack Northrop and his flying wing bomber designs: the XB-35, YB-49, and the B-2. There is no whiffery in this project, except for maybe the display base which I may need to modify to incorporate the Northrop company logo design from the 1940's.
Kits I am using are the Cyber-hobby/Dragon 1/200 scale XB-35 and YB-49, and also the 1/144 scale Revell B-2 stealth bomber. These are all small kits with minimal amount of parts that should go together fast and easy.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4501/37893230991_fb832a40e9_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4501/37893231031_ccd9029812_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4482/37893231051_c2ba791d81_c.jpg)
A few things about the XB-35 and YB-49 kits:
a) The letter and number callouts for some parts and paint colors don't match up well or aren't very clear. For example: The clear parts sprue is labeled Letter D, but the instruction sheet names the clear parts with a letter W. There is also no color H4/4 (For the propeller tips) in the XB-35 instruction sheet even though it's mentioned on the bottom of the box.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4489/37862067236_d6d3a2f781_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4464/37862067246_b9d32bb65f_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4466/37879766942_eecfc07027_b.jpg)
b) The painting and decal guide is on the bottom of the kit box. So don't throw away the box! See above pic.
c) The cockpit and tail crew sections are so small and minimally detailed, that when you put the upper and lower fuselage halves together and also add the clear canopy parts, you won't be able to see hardly anything of those interior areas. It's probably best not to paint those interior areas and/or not even add them at all. See below picture that has the green circled cockpit section and also red circled canopy areas.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4449/37201056874_62b1db4e16_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4510/37862274166_133ab10184_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4454/37862274186_ebc3119991_c.jpg)
Originally, I had thought about putting the bombers on a flat base and put some design specs. and other information next to/around them.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4514/37201056854_b22812b06f_c.jpg)
But then.........INSPIRATION STRUCK! I forgot I had an old Academy aircraft display stand at home that I hadn't used yet. I figure, if you're going to display flying wing bombers, then you might as well display it right: Put them on the stand in flight mode! So I drilled out holes in the bottoms of all the bomber lower fuselage sections and did some testing to see how I wanted them displayed and what they'd look like. From my point of view, I like it a lot! :thumbsup:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4513/37201167584_3d616f9bfe_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4470/37201167594_1ae9caf54e_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4497/37880017112_e258a29aba_c.jpg)
The "hole" in the Academy base will be somehow covered up and I'll display the old vintage Northrop 1940's company logo there.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4448/37880017152_87020e9a31_n.jpg)
Right on! Normally I'm a stickler for having gear with my builds. I like them sitting. But with flying wings?? It makes ALL the sense to have them in flight. :mellow:
The only thing you can see through the canopy on a 1/72 B-35 is the pilot's seat. On a 1/200 model that'd be darn nigh invisible!
LOVE the idea of the 'Northrop' base. :thumbsup:
Quote from: PR19_Kit on October 25, 2017, 03:38:13 AM
LOVE the idea of the 'Northrop' base. :thumbsup:
Very much so, a fitting tribute :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
The Arado looks so right in those markings
Quote from: TheChronicOne on October 24, 2017, 05:09:47 PM
Right on! Normally I'm a stickler for having gear with my builds. I like them sitting. But with flying wings?? It makes ALL the sense to have them in flight.
Wellllllllllll.........to be honest, I'll have the landing gear down and the landing gear bays open. I know it'll suck and look awkward, but when building almost any model, especially aircraft, I like to try and show as much detail as possible. This usually means detailing the cockpit, maybe adding pilot figures, open weapons bay, open landing gear bays, landing gear down, etc. I like spectators to get a good look at all the intricacies of a model as much as possible. Besides, the weapons bay on the B-2 is already molded open with interior weapons detail.
Quote from: PR19_Kit on October 25, 2017, 03:38:13 AM
The only thing you can see through the canopy on a 1/72 B-35 is the pilot's seat. On a 1/200 model that'd be darn nigh invisible!
I had a choice between following the kit instructions and painting the 1/200 scale canopies black as indicated on the box painting and marking guide, or painting the crew sections and leaving the canopies clear. I chose the latter just in case some prick JMN judge at a contest wanted to see inside. :banghead:
Well that sounds good, then! Best of both worlds in that case. In flight and with gear, to boot. Can't go wrong there!
If I was feeling really creative, which I'm not right now, I could have had the XB-35 in flight with spinning propellers. Replace the kit propellers with round discs cut from clear sheet styrene and made to look like they are spinning.
Actually, now that I think about it, I could maybe do spinning props for my larger AMT Ertl 1/72 scale XB-35 at home in the future. Propblurs makes some 1/72 scale photoetch 4-bladed spinning props that might work. :thumbsup:
Giving two birds the Testors Silver treatment. :thumbsup: Landing gear for both is fully painted. Hope to install for both planes tomorrow, as well as attach propellers on the XB-35, and also attach canopies for both aircraft. Also hope to start work on the 1/144 scale B-2 tomorrow night. Gonna be a busy day tomorrow. :o :o
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4493/37938349911_bbca8e1b54_b.jpg)
Those look sensational SD.
:thumbsup:
A few "test shots" of all 3 bombers on the Academy display stand. You can definately see how big the 1/144 scale B-2 is compared to the slightly smaller 1/200 scale XB-35 and YB-49 bombers. :o Even though these birds may be small and "moderately" simple to put together, I have a feeling I won't finish this display in time for a contest this coming weekend on Saturday. :( The B-2 is giving me problems which I'll probably explain in another post tomorrow.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4448/37926249922_e5b2915582_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4456/26181589459_0a729fa86e_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4487/37957383321_d8d3a6e1d2_c.jpg)
I agree wit' me buddy up above, man, them look great!!!
You'll overcome the setbacks... deadline is tight but when the pressure is on, I'm confident you'll prevail. :mellow: :mellow:
QuoteYou'll overcome the setbacks... deadline is tight but when the pressure is on, I'm confident you'll prevail.
A couple things come to mind. As an old phrase kinda goes: "The hurrier I go, the behinder I get."
And.......when I rush something, I have a tendency to make mistakes. :(
As for this 1/144 Revell B-2 kit........there's a few things to note about it.
a) There is flash, but not an extreme amount to clean up. On a scale of 1-10, I'd say it's a 3.
b) No sense in painting or detailing the cockpit interior. Once the windscreen is in place and the upper/lower fuselage sections glued, you won't be able to see much of anything anyway.
c) There is no way to build the model in flight with the wheel bays closed. Not unless you do some serious cutting of the gear doors and also PSR to make this bird in flight. Revell did some unique molding of the parts/sprues so that the only way to build this model
was with the gear down. This appears to be intentional.
d) The weapons bay is molded open with some "cheap" molding of weapons already in the bay. To close the bay, you'd have to cut the weapon bay door actuators off the doors as well as do some other PSR in order to properly close the doors.
e) To get a proper B-2, a person will need to do a LOT of PSR to sand off raised panel lines, fill gaps and seams, etc. to make this bird look as authentic and stealthy as possible.
I'll try to post more pics either tonight or tomorrow if I can.
Note: The grey B-2 in the last pic is not finished yet. It is simply on the stand for a test shot with the other models. ;)
Anyway.........both the XB-35 (Propeller bomber) and the YB-49 (Jet bomber) are both finished. Sorry if any pics look dark or blurry. I had hoped to finish this display in time for a contest tomorrow. But the B-2 stealth bomber kit is giving me more headaches than I care to have. :banghead: So........this whole display will be delayed and showcased at another contest 2 weeks from now. More work on the B-2 will continue on Sunday.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4494/24126814638_c6d7a03dfa_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4453/24126814688_885c575b54_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4479/26202316109_94d6dfea44_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4480/26202316139_ea9c1d7fb8_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4514/24126910438_d8ca0b9c32_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4504/24126910448_8eee11ed2c_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4485/24126963638_3e52c7bb11_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4457/24126963628_7b76a68626_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4468/37268907284_e53948fa98_b.jpg)
That's a really neat collection :thumbsup:
:thumbsup:
Didn't really do much this past Sunday or even today. As said previously, the XB-35 and YB-49 are both done. The B-2 is 90% done except for decaling which I am having severe trouble with and will have to explain another time. Otherwise, the B-2 bird is all painted and assembled. Took time out tonight to work on the display stand and fill in that ugly "hole" in the display stand base. ;D Nothing fancy mind you, but just enough to give the base a bit of color so to speak and liven it up a little. :thumbsup: I wanted to go with a slight retro look, so I used the Northrop company logo from the 1940's timeframe which is when the XB-35 and YB-49 were built and flight tested and when the saga of the flying wings really got started. ;)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4507/37345234364_1601292f47_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4462/26278290119_067a36ea15_b.jpg)
I think it looks great! I, too, am a big fan of that logo. :mellow: :mellow:
:thumbsup:
Really neat, well thought out base :thumbsup:
Desperate for some help here. :( My B-2 is 90% done except for decaling which I started yesterday, but didn't get very far due to some problems I've having. :banghead: I'm not sure what it is: My fault, old kit/decals, or something else, but you can see the problems in these two pics, especially the red circled areas in the second pic. When it comes to large or long decals, I always seem to have problems. I'm really dreading putting on the rest of the B-2 walkway decals on both wings. I doubt I'll have any problems with some of the other tinier decals like unit markings, roundels, etc., but........you never can tell. So.........a) I continue as is and fix the walkway decals somehow and continue to add the rest, or........b) Remove and not add all walkway decals, but......then the B-2 won't look accurate like the real thing.
Advice?
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4474/38071765391_1d7a5b44e1_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4452/24219021568_8eee29332e_c.jpg)
Surprise, "free" weathering?
Not knowing your process, it's also possible that those areas could wind up looking fine after a coat of clear?
Not very helpful I know! :unsure:
Did you gloss varnish the airframe before decaling?
It looks like the dreaded 'silvering' there, and usually caused by decaling directly over matt paint. AFAIK there's no way out of that short of prising the decals off and applying another set after glossing.
Since I started printing my own decals I've always scanned the decal sheet of any model I'm working with before using any of the items, then there's always some chance of printing off spares if you need them.
I find a coat of future usually works out most problems...
Quote from: PR19_Kit on November 01, 2017, 04:27:27 AM
Did you gloss varnish the airframe before decaling?
No. Can't really do that as the temperature here where I live is in the 30's or 40's and getting colder and Fall is here. Anything I spray means having to open a window or door for ventilation so I don't choke on the fumes and that really isn't an option right now.
It looks like the dreaded 'silvering' there, and usually caused by decaling directly over matt paint. AFAIK there's no way out of that short of prising the decals off and applying another set after glossing.
Yeah, I am heavily contemplating removing the walkway decals. My only option is if anybody asks why they aren't there is to say the walkway stripes detract from the "stealthiness" of the aircraft. Or maybe I can say this bird is a prototype that didn't recieve further markings yet, or that it's a further advanced "Block 40" aircraft sans extra markings to make it more non-visually stealthy. Seriously, I get why the USAF put the walkways on there. They want the maintenance crew to only walk in certain areas on the airframe. But IMO, I think those walkways kinda detracts from the stealthiness of the aircraft and makes it more visible to an enemy.
Since I started printing my own decals I've always scanned the decal sheet of any model I'm working with before using any of the items, then there's always some chance of printing off spares if you need them.
I don't have the luxury or resources to buy another kit just to get the decal sheet out of it or to print my own decals. And the printer that I do have is already broken.
Quote from: PR19_Kit on November 01, 2017, 04:27:27 AM
Did you gloss varnish the airframe before decaling?
It looks like the dreaded 'silvering' there, and usually caused by decaling directly over matt paint. AFAIK there's no way out of that short of prising the decals off and applying another set after glossing.
Yup, i agree, should've gloss coated the whole thing before decals. Also, did you use any decal softener solution? That might help to make them conform to the surface of the model a bit better, even with no gloss coat but only if the paintwork is smooth enough.
You don't have to spray a gloss coat on, you can always apply it with a normal brush, right? Acrylic floor polish is a good option for that, it's self leveling and dries up clear and shiny.
Quote from: DogfighterZen on November 01, 2017, 11:12:28 AM
You don't have to spray a gloss coat on, you can always apply it with a normal brush, right? Acrylic floor polish is a good option for that, it's self leveling and dries up clear and shiny.
Absolutely! I always brush on Klear coats, Future in the US IIRC, and it levels up superbly. You just need to be careful not to apply it too generously as it's prone to runs if you do.
I just did some checking in the kit instructions as well as research online. The kit instructions and decals are for the B-2 as it appeared during it's unveiling in November 1988. However, the kit instructions have one major thing wrong.........the B-2 during it's unveiling never had the walkways on it's wings. :o From what I remember, Aviation Week & Space Technology magazine managed to snap a pic of the B-2 from above during it's unveiling. That pic definately shows no walkways on the wings of the B-2. So.........problem solved! ;D No need to put the walkways on.
The other problem: How do I take the walkways off that are currently on my model?
(https://www.whatifmodellers.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Faviationweek.com%2Fsite-files%2Faviationweek.com%2Ffiles%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F11%2F25%2Fb-2-1.jpg&hash=ef4f54aefd87dab8b16bc46eab8ee9a946803bfe)
As they aren't attached too well, that's what the 'silvering' means, you may find they'll peel off with the aid of a scalpel blade under one edge. Soaking with water as a second stage is worth considering if the first attempt doesn't work.
Quote from: PR19_Kit on November 01, 2017, 01:05:11 PM
As they aren't attached too well, that's what the 'silvering' means, you may find they'll peel off with the aid of a scalpel blade under one edge. Soaking with water as a second stage is worth considering if the first attempt doesn't work.
They've only been on the model for about 2-3 days. Water? Doesn't using decal settling solution also help "lift" off decals too if need be?
Quote from: seadude on November 01, 2017, 01:42:28 PM
Quote from: PR19_Kit on November 01, 2017, 01:05:11 PM
As they aren't attached too well, that's what the 'silvering' means, you may find they'll peel off with the aid of a scalpel blade under one edge. Soaking with water as a second stage is worth considering if the first attempt doesn't work.
They've only been on the model for about 2-3 days. Water? Doesn't using decal settling solution also help "lift" off decals too if need be?
Yes, that'd help too, but I'm always at a loss to decide if the blue bottle or the red one is the correct one to use.
I'd use water if i were you, don't forget that the setting solution is to make the decal stick in place before a solvent is applied.
Water wont damage the paintwork unless you really scrape the surface. Like Kit said, try using the tip of the blade to lift it, after it's wet. But be patient and careful, it'll pay off.
Quote from: PR19_Kit on November 01, 2017, 04:40:48 PM
Yes, that'd help too, but I'm always at a loss to decide if the blue bottle or the red one is the correct one to use.
The blue is microset, the one that helps with holding the decal in place, the red is microsol, again, like the name implies, it's the solvent solution that makes the decals conform to detail. Normally, the method is to apply the setting solution first, and the solvent afterwards, works for me.
Warm water works best, unless you've already clear coated over it.
Quote from: DogfighterZen on November 01, 2017, 06:54:46 PM
The blue is microset, the one that helps with holding the decal in place, the red is microsol, again, like the name implies, it's the solvent solution that makes the decals conform to detail. Normally, the method is to apply the setting solution first, and the solvent afterwards, works for me.
Magic, thanks. I'm going to save that text as a file so I don't forget. :thumbsup: ;D
Quote from: PR19_Kit on November 02, 2017, 01:39:56 AM
Quote from: DogfighterZen on November 01, 2017, 06:54:46 PM
The blue is microset, the one that helps with holding the decal in place, the red is microsol, again, like the name implies, it's the solvent solution that makes the decals conform to detail. Normally, the method is to apply the setting solution first, and the solvent afterwards, works for me.
Magic, thanks. I'm going to save that text as a file so I don't forget. :thumbsup: ;D
;D :thumbsup:
I'm calling this one done for now.........unless somebody else has an idea or suggestion on anything to add? Finally managed to get the walkway decals off that were on the left side of the aircraft. ;)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4496/38116756391_692b54a8c5_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4473/38062697136_3d5e2f49a1_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4455/37407749904_40644d026b_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4467/38062828236_6026d533b3_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4472/26340580489_5dbdb528d7_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4472/26340665869_81865a1831_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4478/26340756579_82695f15bd_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4477/24265180898_e5a71929cd_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4445/38117259051_81ddb66b2d_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4474/37408291424_63edd4b591_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4471/37408235264_753796656c_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4570/24265346178_706a423931_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4578/38063328756_86195f4773_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4527/24265455948_3bcb0dab18_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4470/38086305832_275436d906_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4496/24265555648_52ba1672af_b.jpg)
An excellent display, Flying Wings Rule OK. :thumbsup:
I just want to re-iterate something here that I want to make perfectly clear about the Revell 1/144 scale B-2 Stealth Bomber model kit. My model does NOT have the wing walkway decal markings on it. There's a reason for this.
The Revell kit instructions are not very clear when it comes to marking and painting. The painting guide shows the B-2 in the configuration during public rollout from November 1988 to early 1990's years. But the decal placement in the instructions is wrong. The wing walkway decals (Number #'s 19, 13, 12, 3, 10, 17, 14, 6, 4, 5, 2, 11, 15, 18, and 20) are not needed for the B-2 if making the model according to the painting guide for a public rollout version. This was already shown and explained in my Post # 35 further above. All other decal #'s would be ok to use.
If a person does want to use the walkway decals for a current USAF operational B-2, then that is optional and up to you. But some of the other non-walkway decals may or may not be needed for an operational B-2. Also, you may need to find additional 1/144 scale aftermarket B-2 decals that have unit and base markings.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4482/24059190238_42379f2d68_b.jpg)
And now for my next project. Secret project, that is. :mellow:
The Aircraft of Area 51.
While I'd like to hope this project will be a short one since some aircraft are already built and will be re-used from past modeling projects, there will be others that will take a bit longer to put together such as 2-3 resin ones that I have. So this whole project might not be finished till January next year. Sorry it's not a whif project. This has been something I've wanted to do for a long time. ;)
The easy part of this large project will be building the models. The hard part will be doing all the research to find out what actually was flown and flight tested at Area 51 vs. what wasn't. Trying to separate fact from rumor if I can which won't be easy. Another hard part might be painting the Soviet aircraft which were flight tested at Area 51. Some had camouflage, while others didn't. Some had metal paint schemes while others didn't. I need to find out which aircraft had what.
Models I already have. Most of these are 1/72 to 1/144 scale.
a) Revell 1/72 scale SR-71 Blackbird w/ D-21 drone. I only need the D-21 drone from this kit to use. I already have a smaller 1/144 scale SR-71 I plan on using.
b) Dragon 1/144 scale pre-built and pre-painted U-2 desktop model.
c) Eduard 1/144 scale "Dual Combo" MiG-15 (2 MiGs in one box. Though I'll only be using one.)
d) Academy 1/144 scale MiG-29 Fulcrum (Rumored to have been flown from Area 51.)
e) Minicraft 1/144 scale MiG-21 (Actually flown/flight tested from Area 51.)
f) Academy 1/144 scale MiG-23 Flogger (Actually flown/flight tested from Area 51.)
g) Tamiya 1/100 scale MiG-19 Farmer
h) Academy 1/144 scale Su-22 Fitter (Rumored to have been flown from Area 51.)
j) Trumpeter 1/144 scale Su-27 Flanker (Rumored to have been flown at Area 51.)
k) Minicraft 1/144 scale MiG-25 Foxbat (There are reports that during the 1st or 2nd Iraq wars/invasions, that MiG-25's were found buried in the sand and that they may have been subsequently taken to Area 51 for study.)
l) Atlantis TR-3E triangular UFO model kit. (Can't have an Area 51 display without a UFO model, right? ;D )
m) Unicraft 1/72 scale RQ-3A Darkstar UAV (Rumored to have been flight tested from Area 51.)
n) Planet Models 1/72 scale Northrop Tacit Blue stealth test plane (Actually flight tested at Area 51.)
o) Unicraft 1/72 scale Boeing Bird of Prey (Actually flight tested at Area 51.)
p) Mark 1 Models 1/144 scale MiG-17 (Actually flight tested at Area 51.)
q) Re-using the 1/144 scale Hopeless Diamond, Have Blue, Northrop XST, and F-117A from a previous model display. https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4479/26344250979_f4d7e66727_b.jpg
r) Re-using the base and some of the Aurora spyplanes from a previous model display. https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4513/38089140442_08d3cb593e_b.jpg
Are there any other aircraft people think I should or should not include for any reason? Anybody know of any decent and factual references I should check out for more information in helping to make this model project?
Great display, seadude! :thumbsup:
Quote from: Old Wombat on November 02, 2017, 06:05:22 PM
Great display, seadude! :thumbsup:
Absolutely :thumbsup: Impressive natural metal finish.
Glorrrrrrrious!!! That looks so good!
Thanks, guys. :) I could have made the B-2 an operational version with the walkway decals if I had wanted to. But it would have been too much trouble and hassle trying to find and get additional 1/144 scale aftermarket unit and base markings which are found on the main wheel gear doors as well as a few other places. The Revell B-2 kit doesn't have such markings. I just didn't have the money or time to do that.
As for the XB-35, I think the tips of the propellers are supposed to be yellow. If they are, then I skipped that process. The instructions never showed them with yellow tips. :o
And if anybody builds either XB-35 or YB-49 model, then be careful of clear parts A2 and A4 for the XB-35, and part A2 for the YB-49. They are so small and so easy to lose if not careful. I "almost" lost them.....twice. :o BTW, the instructions say the clear parts are labeled A for the XB-35, but the clear parts sprue was labeled D. The YB-49 instructions lists the clear parts as W. But the Sprue is labeled D.
Confusing, isn't it? :o
Getting back to the aircraft of Area 51 project..........
Here's my first kit I'll be starting with. It's two MiG-15's in one box, though I'll only be using one. Options include several air force decal markings from different countries, drop tanks, and bombs. Though the MiG-15 I'll be building will be the classic metal (Testors Silver) aircraft with standard Soviet red star markings. Might add drop tanks, but no bombs. In the research I've done so far, it doesn't appear the MiG-15 was ever exploited at Area 51 during the 1950's or 60's. Though the aircraft was exploited during the early 1950's at Wright-Patterson AFB.
But........I'm going to build it "just in case" my research turns up differently in the future.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4512/38065787256_e788e767e9_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4555/38088670662_988dc1ce53_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4532/37410883014_b339d022c0_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4532/26343900789_2ed1e00f0c_c.jpg)
Very nice builds there seadude, and 3 very iconic aircraft in my eyes too. Both myself and SHADO command will be watching your Area 51 builds with great interest. 👽🤓
Chris
Quote from: chrisonord on November 03, 2017, 02:40:09 PM
Both myself and SHADO command will be watching your Area 51 builds with great interest. 👽🤓
Chris
Watching? Are you sure? :mellow: ;D
(https://www.whatifmodellers.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcl.jroo.me%2Fz3%2FA%2FM%2FA%2Fd%2Fa.aaa-Area-51-sign.jpg&hash=71311bc1f825a93b50b84c08ff9772d7c30b1dd7)
;D ;D ;D
Maybe 1/144 scale wasn't such a good idea after all. :o :banghead: Why didn't somebody warn me that this scale was so small? I mean, I know the box was small buying it in the store or online, but actually seeing and handling the parts is another matter entirely. Geez, I think I need a microscope just to handle some of the tiniest parts. But, I started it. Might as well finish it. Can hardly wait to see what the other 1/144 scale kits look like I need to build. :o
MiG-15 is such a teeny tiny dinky little model in 1/144 scale. :o :o :o :o :o
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4553/38120762356_fe5bf5ff6e_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4458/37466532944_b25dc55000_b.jpg)
Quote from: seadude on November 05, 2017, 11:58:49 AM
Why didn't somebody warn me that this scale was so small?
;D ;D ;D ;D The clue is in the number..........
It looks like you're making pretty good progress anyway. :thumbsup:
All work on my Area 51 project has temporarily stopped as I am currently preparing for a model contest this Saturday in Chicago. I'll get back to work on it next week sometime. I had to do some rethinking about the amount of models I'll have for my Area 51 display. I'm now up to 22 or 23. :o :o :o
1. Eduard 1/144 scale "Dual Combo" MiG-15 Fagot (2x MiG kits in one box.)
2. Mark 1 Models 1/144 scale Soviet MiG-17 Fresco
3. Tamiya 1/100 scale Soviet MiG-19 Farmer
4. Minicraft 1/144 scale Soviet MiG-21 Fishbed
5. Academy 1/144 scale Soviet MiG-23 Flogger
6. Minicraft 1/144 scale Soviet MiG-25 Foxbat
7. Academy 1/144 scale Russian MiG-29 Fulcrum
8. Academy 1/144 scale Russian Su-17/22 Fitter
9. Trumpeter 1/144 scale Russian Su-27 Flanker
10. DRAGON 1/144 scale pre-built/painted U-2 spyplane desktop model.
11. DRAGON 1/144 scale SR-71 Blackbird pre-built/painted desktop model.
12. Revell 1/72 scale D-21 drone. (From the Revell 1/72 SR-71 w/ D-21 drone model kit, Kit #85-5810)
13. Anigrand Models 1/144 scale Lockheed "Hopeless Diamond"
14. Anigrand Models 1/144 scale Lockheed HAVE BLUE.
15. Anigrand Models 1/144 scale Northrop XST
16. DRAGON 1/144 scale pre-built/painted F-117 Stealth Fighter desktop model.
17. Planet Models 1/72 scale Northrop Tacit Blue stealth aircraft.
18. Unicraft 1/72 scale Boeing "Bird of Prey" stealth aircraft.
19. Anigrand Models 1/144 scale SR-91 Aurora model.
20. Anigrand Models 1/144 scale SR-75 Penetrator model.
21. DRAGON 1/144 scale "Operation Geronimo" MH-60 Stealth Helicopter
22. Unicraft 1/72 scale Lockheed RQ-3A Darkstar UAV
23. Atlantis TR-3E triangular UFO model kit. (Might add to display, but very doubtful.)
The really nice thing about my Area 51 project is that all the Soviet aircraft I am building for it will be used again for another future display:
The Aircraft of the Red Eagles: 4477th Test and Evaluation Squadron
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4477th_Test_and_Evaluation_Squadron
Once the Area 51 display is done and has been shown at a few contests, then I can "retire" it and transfer all the Soviet aircraft models to a new display base showcasing the 4477th TES. :thumbsup: Starting next year, I'll make a new 4477th TES display base, add some informational signage, and voila, another model display ready to go! :thumbsup:
Whenever I build and show any sort of model project at a contest or other exhibition, I generally like to have some sort of signage next to the model that describes history of the subject, how the model was built, etc.
For humorous purposes for my Area 51 model display, I made the following warning sign which is based on real Area 51 warning signage that I've seen pictures of on the Internet. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4551/24442131358_a96805b60b_c.jpg)
(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/0b/af/dd/0bafdd2e5e0559662714de3de514cb5d--area--warning-signs.jpg)
;D ;D
They look suitably threatening! :mellow: :mellow: :mellow: Font looks perfect. :thumbsup:
Quote from: TheChronicOne on November 10, 2017, 01:13:52 PM
;D ;D
They look suitably threatening! :mellow: :mellow: :mellow: Font looks perfect. :thumbsup:
The top image is my humorous created sign. The bottom one is a real Area 51 warning sign.
I have a spare Eduard 1/144 MiG-21bis I could be convinced to part with...
Quote from: seadude on November 10, 2017, 05:12:09 PM
Quote from: TheChronicOne on November 10, 2017, 01:13:52 PM
;D ;D
They look suitably threatening! :mellow: :mellow: :mellow: Font looks perfect. :thumbsup:
The top image is my humorous created sign. The bottom one is a real Area 51 warning sign.
Nailed it!! :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :police: :police: :police: :tank: :tank: :tank: :tank: :tornado: :tornado: :tornado:
Quote from: nighthunter on November 10, 2017, 10:45:25 PM
I have a spare Eduard 1/144 MiG-21bis I could be convinced to part with...
Thanks, but I have a MiG-21 kit already. ;)
Anyway.........moving right along, I finished up the Eduard 1/144 scale MiG-15. I decided to place it on a small wargaming acrylic hexagon stand for better viewability. As I've said before, in the research I've done so far, it doesn't appear the MiG-15 was ever exploited at Area 51 during the late 1950's or 1960's. Though the aircraft was exploited during the early 1950's at Wright-Patterson AFB.
But........I'm going to build it "just in case" my research turns up differently in the future.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4556/26713925679_f53c396503_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4546/26713925689_b405e1780b_c.jpg)
The next model to build is the Mark 1 Models 1/144 scale MiG-17. During my research, at least half a dozen or more MiG-17's were exploited at Area 51 during the 1960's and 1970's. References I am using for all the Soviet aircraft I am having in my display are:
"Red Eagles, America's Secret MiGs" by Steve Davies
"MiGs Over Nevada, MiG Exploitation Projects at Area 51" by Thornton D. Barnes
As for how I'll paint and decal the MiG-17, I am not sure. Numerous -17's were at Area 51 in different schemes and markings. And most photos I have found on the Internet are black and white which doesn't help any with regards to painting camouflage. :banghead:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4559/24617884418_8dc06d07a6_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4579/24617884448_41a968ccc0_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4560/38458216502_7bbc87435c_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4551/38458216512_7084ea07f8_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4575/26713990049_3fd7e10c21_c.jpg)
That's impressive, dude! Glorious work in that scale... that thing is itty bitty...
I'm LOVIN' the metal finish!
Great work Dude. If I didn't know better I would have said it was bigger than 144.
Ok, the Mark 1 Models MiG-17 is done. Most photos I've found on the Net of MiG-17's being exploited at Area 51 by the 4477th TES are in black and white. I can find no color photos. There is a camouflage measure, but I can't tell what colors are on the aircraft since the photos are in black and white. If I remember correctly, I think the 4477th exploited MiG-17's that were from Egypt and/or Syria, so I painted the model dark red brown and sand type colors as shown in the Mark 1 Models instructions. The black and white photos that I did research also showed USAF roundels on the sides of the aircraft behind the wings. There were no Soviet red stars or other national insignia on the aircraft. Some photos did show MiG-17's with either number 002 or 055 on either side of the cockpit near the nose of the aircraft. However, I didn't have any spare decals to create either number, so I had to use what was on the model kit decal sheet.
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3b/4477th_Test_and_Evaluation_Squadron_MiG-17F_in_flight.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4520/26864506469_7b5f8051ca_z.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4567/26864506489_b5fa704b60_z.jpg)
The next model I'm starting is the Tamiya 1/100 scale MiG-19 which will probably be painted Testors Silver. At least a few MiG-19's (or derivatives from other countries) were exploited by the 4477th TES during the 1960's and 70's. One example of which was under the code name HAVE BOAT.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4580/24767974358_35b76a7477_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4517/24767974378_acbc9a4bb3_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4527/37752720315_72a42d0b24_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4537/37752720345_148b5c6f5b_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4578/38640505111_2c59cc32cb_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4573/38640505081_c6691185ec_c.jpg)
Had a bit of an idea last night. I managed to find some old Area 51 base maps that I had purchased back in the mid 1990's. These aren't "official" maps, but are rather based on the research done by aircraft enthusiasts, folklorists, historians, etc. They give a rough approximation of the Groom Lake base during the mid 1990's.
Anyway, my idea is to use maybe one of these maps, have it laminated or put in a poster frame, and use it as a "base" to put underneath my aircraft models. The maps are all 25" x 19", so I'm not sure if all my 25 models that I am building for my Area 51 display would fit. Probably not I guess. But the 9-10 models I am building for my separate 4477th Red Eagles MiG display would. The first two maps might be ok to use, but most likely not the third. I don't want modelers and spectators paying more attention to the map than the models at a model show.
Anyway, tell me what you think. Good idea or not?
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4585/24877666648_bdaf34e2b3_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4521/38034420664_e7f3a65e3a_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4517/38750586801_5f3002009a_c.jpg)
Quote from: seadude on November 30, 2017, 01:23:33 PM
Had a bit of an idea last night. I managed to find some old Area 51 base maps that I had purchased back in the mid 1990's. These aren't "official" maps,
You might have received a "visit" if they were real ;)
Like the idea :thumbsup:
Will look awesome, I think.
I like the map idea too. But like I said, I can only use either the first or second map, but not the third. I don't want people paying more attention to the maps and the details they have instead of looking at the models. I kind of like the 2nd map and may use that as it doesn't have a lot of "distracting" information on it. ;)
The Tamiya 1/100 scale MiG-19 Farmer is done. According to various references, some MiG-19's were acquired/exploited from Indonesia during the 1960's or 70's. But since I didn't have any Indonesian decals to use, I had to go with Chinese markings instead.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4585/38810477822_fb7451853e_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4560/38810477852_f26c127f52_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4545/38841238061_00ee4ff0a5_c.jpg)
The next model is the Minicraft 1/144 scale MiG-21. Several -21's were acquired and exploited by the 4477th TES during the 1960's and 70's. I based my model pretty much on this picture:
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/10/4477th_Test_and_Evaluation_Squadron_MiG-21_in_flight.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4539/38841238141_592e002c99_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4574/24968412638_a1f3fd6836_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4547/24968412678_d2b7cd0d86_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4565/27064455689_668c70754a_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4576/27064455699_ae3eee7abc_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4586/24968467068_807296edd6_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4516/24968467088_2e546d8e62_c.jpg)
After the MiG-21 was done, I went to work on the MiG-23. Again, several -23's were also acquired and exploited by the 4477th during the 60's and 70's, and maybe the 80's too. I based my model partially on this picture which shows a MiG-23 at the secretive Tonopah Test Range airfield in Nevada. The sad thing about the MiG-23 model I built was that the kit has no landing gear doors. :o How stupid does a kit manufacturer have to be not to include the landing gear doors? Pretty stupid I guess. :banghead:
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/ae/4477th_Test_and_Evaluation_Squadron_MiG_23_Red_49.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4530/23975986267_3d88680ed0_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4546/23975986307_5bde03437c_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4552/23976033537_0a49639875_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4554/23976033547_e8ff54f221_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4517/27064604669_d583c875d2_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4559/27064604679_d169fb3a4a_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4572/37954137615_2f7d619b69_c.jpg)
After the MiG-23 was done, I then worked on the MiG-25. No -25's were ever exploited at Area 51. But some references that I've read mentioned that 4477th personnel traveled to Japan to study and evaluate the MiG-25 that a pilot defected in during 1976.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4585/37954137625_f2442e6a17_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4567/27064648579_d2fc25d57e_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4524/27064648619_a2a17cb5bf_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4520/24968695068_9e56e37bd6_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4529/38841660261_3f18dc483b_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4552/37954207365_5b78511cda_c.jpg)
The next model to currently work on will be the MiG-29. I'm not sure what paint scheme to give it yet. All I know is that I hate camouflage. :banghead:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4546/37954207395_df595a5976_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4541/38810876352_13be508efa_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4553/37954259115_16265480e3_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4517/37954259145_03c09ac324_c.jpg)
As I mentioned previously, I'm going to use an old Area 51 map that I have and use it for my future 4477th Red Eagles Soviet Aircraft display. I was thinking of displaying my Soviet aircraft models clockwise around the "perimeter" of the map and leave the center of the map open so spectators could view the base and runways. I like this map as there's not much, if any, "distracting" information on it that would make people view the map more than the models. There's lots of "open space" on the map. ;)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4576/37954298775_30d6dde2eb_b.jpg)
Lovin' these gross birds!! (144...a gross.... get it.. ehhh.... ) :::shepherd hook pulls off stage:::::
But yeah.... totally digging your stuff here. :mellow: Some fine work, if I say so!
Work on the last 3 Soviet aircraft models (MiG-29, Su-17/22, and Su-27) will probably be delayed for a good while. I'm having trouble trying to figure out paint schemes for all of them, but without having to do camouflage which I absolutely hate. :banghead:
For the MiG-29, I've thought about either of the following:
a) https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a6/Mig_29_Schematic.jpg
b) Same as a. above, but plane is overall medium gray with darker gray nose and vertical fin tips.
Frankly though, I kinda like the light gray nose, vertical fin tips, and lower under fuselage better. ;)
Not sure what to do for the Su-17/22. May paint the entire model silver to represent a metallic aircraft, but am not sure.
The Su-27 might be a problem. There have been reports of Su-27's flying around Groom Lake, but in various blue camouflage patterns. Unfortuneately, since any pics on the Net are very blurry, it is hard to accurately discern the exact camo pattern used by the Su-27's. Therefore, I'm thinking I probably won't paint my -27 in a camo pattern.
https://theaviationist.com/2017/01/06/these-crazy-photos-show-a-russian-su-27-flanker-dogfighting-with-a-u-s-air-force-f-16-inside-area-51/
I did come across this scheme which I like, but unfortuneately, it appears to only be used by the Su-35 which is a derivative of the Su-27.
(https://www.whatifmodellers.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdefence-blog.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F02%2Fsu35_8.jpg&hash=9d7f6286cf884dc67516194d7907b14639609f64)
The Mig 19 is particularly neat :thumbsup:
I should have done my research a bit more carefully.......and thoroughly. According to various sources, at least 20+ ex-Moldovan MiG-29's were bought by the U.S. in the late 1990's to keep them out of the hands of Iran or other states with ill intentions. Here is one such reference source:
http://area51trips.blogspot.com/2017/01/mig-29s-in-us.html
There are posts/photos in that blog that show Moldovan -29's in some sort of green scheme. Kinda looks like some planes might be having their camo patterns and national markings painted over prior to delivery to the U.S.? Anyway, I could paint the -29 model similar to this. Green color all over on upper fuselage. Testor Duck Egg Blue on underside of aircraft. Medium or Dark Gray for other highlights.
https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BnDwiylwzuQ/WISd_L1loHI/AAAAAAAAFR4/YJeMDv8TH1k6F_OPcQ3qnz44uC68YhtJACLcB/s1600/971016-D-0000M-002.jpg
http://imgproc.airliners.net/photos/airliners/1/8/6/0971681.jpg?v=v40
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/83/Moldovan_MiG-29C_is_readied_for_air_shipment.jpg
Now that that's taken care of, I still have to figure out the Su-17/22 and the Su-27. Hmmm. :unsure: :unsure:
I had to go and put a bib on whilst looking at all these gorgeous miss as they made me drool :wacko:
Excellent job you have done there you really have. Just a sabot of reference, the su-27 has been exported to several countries, including China in one of its many versions, China very often uses single colour scheme on their aircraft SU-22's were very often a dark and scruffy green and brown camouflage with either light grey, or light blue underside. I am sure you will make a cracking job of it. A lot of former Eastern block countries used them so plenty of references.
Chris