1:32 McDonnell F-15E Strike Eagle interior

The real subject

The F-15E Strike Eagle is a two-seat combat version of the F-15 aircraft, adapted for attacks on ground targets in all weather. The rear seat belongs to the weapon systems officer, so the cockpit has two differently equipped stations. In 1:32 scale the cockpit is large and the detail is visible under the clear canopy, which makes it the place where extra work pays off most.

What the set contains

This is an accessory set of photo-etched metal parts for the interior, that is for the cockpit area. Metal makes it possible to make thin features genuinely thin, which is unattainable in injection-molded plastic, and the edges stay sharp. The list of parts and the order of assembly are given in the maker's instructions. For the work have ready a sharp blade, a firm cutting surface, fine-tipped tweezers and ideally a photo-etch bender as well.

Building and painting tips

Cut the parts out of the fret with a sharp blade on a hard surface; do not snap them off. Sand the remainder of the attachment tab away with a fine file. Make the folds over a straight edge or in a bender and do them in one movement, as repeated folding tires the metal and the part breaks. It is glued with cyanoacrylate glue, as polystyrene cement will not join metal. Before painting, wash the metal, degrease it and spray it with a primer, otherwise the coat will peel off while you handle it. Parts of the original plastic equipment usually have to be sanded away first, so that the assembly does not grow once the photo-etched parts are glued on and the canopy still seats.

Terms of supply

The accessory set alone is supplied. The aircraft kit, paints, glue and primer are not included, unless stated otherwise.