1:48 T-45A/T-45C Goshawk BASIC kabuki masks

1:48 T-45A/T-45C Goshawk BASIC kabuki masks

This item is not a model of an aircraft but a masking set in 1:48 scale from the New Ware brand. It serves to cover the areas that are to stay clean after spraying, so that the glazing frames and other divisions come out sharp. The name gives the designation kabuki masks and the BASIC level. For a number of types New Ware carries several levels of extent side by side, BASIC, ADVANCED and EXPERT, and the level is part of the name; BASIC is the most limited of them. The particular contents of the set are given on its packaging.

The real subject

The T-45 Goshawk is a jet trainer of the US Navy, derived from the British Hawk and adapted for operating from aircraft carriers. It received strengthened landing gear, an arrestor hook and other changes needed for landing on a deck. The T-45A version had a classic instrument panel with analog instruments, while the later T-45C moved to digital displays. The Goshawk serves for the advanced training of pilots who then move on to carrier combat aircraft, and its striking orange and white finish makes it a rewarding subject.

Masking and painting tips

• Degrease the surface before laying the masks on and let the previous coat harden.
• Transfer the pieces with tweezers, so that you do not deform the edges.
• On training schemes with sharp color fields, spray the light shades before the dark ones.
• Lift the mask slowly and at an angle, not straight upward.

Who the set is for

• Modelers building the Goshawk in 1:48 scale.
• Those who want the more limited variant of a masking set.
• Anyone interested in contemporary aircraft of the US Navy.