1:48 A-10A Thunderbolt II TFace

Double-sided masks for the Thunderbolt cockpit

The TFace variant from Eduard for the 1:48 model of the A-10A Thunderbolt II. Besides the outer masks it also contains parts for the inner face of the glazing, thanks to which the frames do not stay transparent from the inside and the cockpit looks convincing even when seen from above through an open canopy.

Two engines high above the fuselage

The pair of turbofan engines set above the rear fuselage protects the powerplants from ingesting debris off unpaved surfaces and lowers the heat signature from behind. The wide straight wing allows long loiter over the target area and calm flight at low speed. The combination of both qualities makes the type an unusually tough machine. Duplicated controls and separate fuel systems were meant to make sure a damaged aircraft got back to base.

Step-by-step procedure

First cover the inner face and spray the dark shade of the pilot's compartment. Once it is dry, turn the part over, apply the outer masks and move on to the upper camouflage. Finally take both sets off and inspect the edges against the light to see whether paint has crept in anywhere. Choose tweezers with smooth tips; serrated jaws easily press a dent into the film.

A good choice for

• modelers building the cockpit in the open position
• those who take the interior down to the last frame
• builders of current American combat aircraft
• experienced airbrush users
• a diorama with an aircraft ready to start