1:48 Aeronautica Militar Cobras Bell P-39 Airacobra In Portugese Service

The real subject

The Bell P-39 Airacobra was an American single-seat fighter with an unusual layout: the power unit was housed behind the cockpit and the aircraft stood on a nose landing gear, which was still rare at the time it came about. The cockpit was entered through side doors. The Portuguese military aviation, the Aeronáutica Militar, had Airacobras in its armament and their markings differed markedly from the American form.

What the sheet contains

This is a standalone decal sheet in 1:48 scale with Portuguese markings for the P-39 Airacobra. The set deals with the color scheme and the markings, not with shape modifications of the model, so you will use it on a kit you already have.

How to apply the decals

• Varnish the surface under the decal to a gloss; on matte varnish a whitish veil forms under the film.
• Trim the decal as close to the printing as possible and dip it in lukewarm water for a few seconds.
• Let it stand until the backing begins to slide freely, and only then draw it off onto the model.
• Draw the excess water off with a paper tissue and squeeze out any air bubbles as well.
• On a busy surface a decal softener helps, pulling the film down into the engraved lines.
• Once dry, overcoat the whole model so that the edges of the film disappear.

Who it is for

The sheet will please builders who are looking for a less usual color variant of a well-known aircraft and do not want to build another American machine. Working with it calls for no extra experience; tweezers, a dish of lukewarm water and patience are enough. Unless stated otherwise, this is a standalone decal sheet; the kit, paints and glue are not included in the package.