1:48 Lockheed-Martin F-35B Joint Strike Fighter

The real subject

The F-35B is the version of the American single-seat Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II combat aircraft that can manage a short takeoff and a vertical landing. A lift fan placed behind the cockpit and a swiveling nozzle at the end of the fuselage make that possible, so that the aircraft can operate from short strips and from the deck of ships without a catapult. From the outside you can tell it by the door of the fan on the spine and by the generally sturdier middle part of the fuselage.

What the set contains

A sheet of decals for a model of the F-35B in 1:48 scale. The decals settle which particular machine the model represents: they carry over the codes, the national insignia and the lettering, that is what sets a model apart from dozens of identically sprayed pieces. The extent of the sheet and a survey of the forms it covers are given in the instructions enclosed with the set.

Building and painting tips

Give the base under the decals a coat of gloss varnish, because on a matte surface air is trapped under the film and a whitish haze appears around the edges. Cut the item out together with its border, dip it in lukewarm water for a few seconds and let it rest on a paper towel until it can be pushed off the backing. Carry it to its place with a brush and bring it right, draw the excess water off and press it down with a cotton swab. On a divided surface a decal softener helps, and once it has dried, take a matte varnish over the area, which will hide the edges of the film. Follow the manufacturer's instructions if they give a different procedure.

• 1:48 scale
• decals for a model of the Lockheed Martin F-35B
• codes, national insignia and lettering
• they are laid onto a gloss base and, where needed, with a softener
• the extent of the sheet according to the manufacturer's instructions

Terms of supply

The kit of the aircraft, paints, varnishes and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.