1:48 The Spitfire Mk. IA and VB decals with the drawings of the 313th RAF Squadron

Decals 1:48 Spitfire Mk.IA and Mk.Vb, No. 313 Squadron RAF (AML Decals)

A sheet of waterslide decals in 1:48 scale for models of the Supermarine Spitfire in the Mk.IA and Mk.Vb versions in the markings of No. 313 (Czechoslovak) Fighter Squadron RAF. The set holds personal as well as national markings and color drawings with the placement of the individual elements. It is an accessory to a kit; the model is not included in the package.

The unit and the real subject

No. 313 Squadron was the third and last Czechoslovak fighter unit set up within the RAF. From its formation in 1941 it flew Spitfires and carried the code letters RY. The Mk.IA version was the early form of the Spitfire with machine-gun armament, while the Mk.Vb was the most widespread wartime version with the Merlin 45 engine and mixed armament of cannon and machine guns. It was on these machines that the squadron went through a period of patrol flights over England and of offensive sweeps over the mainland.

Application tips

The early and middle British camouflage schemes have soft transitions, which spray well with an airbrush at low pressure, but the decals belong on a gloss coat. Cut the marking out closely, soak it in warm water and transfer it onto a dampened spot. With the large identification letters on the fuselage it pays to lay the first one down and line the second up against it. A softener will bed the markings onto the curved surfaces and onto the armament covers; once it is dry, even the surface out with a matte coat and only then add the weathering.

Who the set is for

• modelers building Spitfires in 1:48 scale
• anyone interested in the part played by Czechoslovak airmen in the RAF
• builders of a collection devoted to one particular squadron
• those who want more accurate markings than the ones from the box

The decals are a modeling accessory. The kit, the paints and the glue are not included in the package.