1:48 Panavia Tornado ASSTA 3.1 TFace

Eduard 1:48 Panavia Tornado ASSTA 3.1 TFace - masks for both sides of the glazing

A set of precisely cut self-adhesive masks from the Czech maker Eduard for a model of the Panavia Tornado ASSTA 3.1 TFace in 1:48 scale. The masks are cut from kabuki tape, that is, from a fine Japanese masking tape that holds well even on slightly curved surfaces, forms no capillary for paint to run under the edge and leaves no adhesive on the clear parts once it is taken off. This is neither a kit nor a finished model but an accessory that shortens the most tiresome part of the build.

The real subject

The Panavia Tornado is a twin-engined combat aircraft with a variable-geometry wing, developed through the cooperation of makers from Germany, Great Britain and Italy. The crew consists of two members sitting one behind the other under a shared large canopy. The abbreviation ASSTA denotes a program of avionics upgrades for the German machines of the IDS version, and step 3.1 belongs to its later stages. The changes concentrate on the equipment of the cockpit and the integration of armament.

Use and tips

The TFace form adds masks for the inner side of the glazing to the outer ones. With the Tornado that makes sense, because the two-seat canopy is large and with the cockpit open the inside of the frames is clearly visible. Work in two steps. First stick the inner masks on and spray the shade of the interior, then seat the part, stick the outer masks on and varnish the outer finish. Leave the inner masks in place right to the very end, as they protect the glazing from overspray and from being scratched during handling.

Who the set is for

• Modelers building a Tornado with the canopy open
• Those who are bothered by untreated frames visible from inside the cockpit
• More experienced builders willing to mask in two goes
• Collectors of modern combat aircraft in 1:48 scale

This is an accessory for a kit. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.