1:48 Lockheed-Martin F-35B Lightning II RAM coating

Eduard masks for the RAM coating panels of the F-35B Lightning II in 1:48 scale

This is neither a kit nor parts of a model, but a set of masking templates. The masks are accurately cut from Japanese kabuki tape, which follows curved surfaces well, holds reliably and leaves no adhesive behind when peeled off, nor does it tear dried paint. The set is intended for the F-35B Lightning II model in 1:48 scale and comes with instructions showing where each mask goes.

The real subject

The F-35B Lightning II is the variant of the fifth generation combat aircraft with short takeoff and vertical landing, distinguished from the conventional version by the lift fan behind the cockpit and the swiveling engine nozzle. The surface of the airframe is covered with radar absorbent materials, and the transitions between the individual panels differ in texture and in degree of gloss. In photographs of real aircraft the surface therefore does not look uniform: the individual areas differ noticeably in tone and reflectivity, and it is exactly this difference that makes a model convincing.

Use

• marking out the panels and areas that on the real aircraft form the radar absorbent coating with a different gloss and shade
• masking before spraying the fine differences in gray tones and in the degree of gloss
• work with the airbrush is easier if you spray lightly and perpendicular to the edge of the mask, so that the paint does not creep underneath
• peel the mask off as soon as the paint has set, pulling at a shallow angle

Who the set is for

For modelers of modern combat aircraft who want to reproduce the characteristic differences in gloss and shade between the individual panels faithfully on an F-35B model. The set saves hours of cutting tape by hand and gives repeatably accurate edges. Some basic experience with airbrush spraying and with leveling the surface with varnish is assumed.

The package contains the masks only. Paints, thinners and the model are not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise.