1:32 Lockheed-Martin F-35B

The real subject

The F-35B is the form of the single-seat F-35 Lightning II combat aircraft with short takeoff and vertical landing. Its identifying marks are the lift fan behind the cockpit under hinged doors and the exhaust nozzle at the rear, which swivels downward for the vertical mode. It is that very mechanism that makes the B version the most interesting piece of the family for a modeler, because open doors and a lowered nozzle change the silhouette of the whole machine.

What the photo-etch adds to the model

Photo-etched parts are cut from thin metal sheet, so they reach a thickness a plastic part cannot come near. In 1:32 scale that difference is especially apparent: the model is large, it is examined close up and a thick plastic edge catches the eye at once. The set is worked for the F-35B model in this scale, and which areas it covers and in what order they are fitted is given in the manufacturer's instructions.

Working with photo-etch

The parts are held on the fret by small bridges. Cut them through with a sharp blade resting on a hard surface; twisting will buckle a part and straightening it afterward is difficult. Make the folds along the scored line over a straight edge or in a bending tool, not with your fingers. They are bonded with cyanoacrylate glue in a minute amount applied with the tip of a wire; excess spreads and fogs the area around. Before painting, wash and degrease the metal and go over it with a primer for metal surfaces, or the coat will flake off in handling.

Terms of supply

A set of accessory parts is supplied. The aircraft kit, paints, glue and tools are not included, unless stated otherwise.