1:48 Mirage IVP n°23 AV

Decals for the Mirage IVP, 1:48 scale

A decal sheet in 1:48 scale for a model of the French Mirage IVP bomber. The markings belong to machine number 23, which carries the two-letter designation AV. This is an accessory for a kit, not a kit itself.

The real subject

The Mirage IV was a two-seat supersonic bomber of the French Air Force from the production of the Dassault company, built around a triangular wing without horizontal tail surfaces. The crew consisted of a pilot and a navigator seated one behind the other. The machine came about as a carrier of French strike weapons and stayed in that role throughout its service, later complemented by reconnaissance tasks as well. The designation IVP belongs to the later reworked version of the type. The combination of a slender fuselage and a large triangular wing gives a model an unmistakable silhouette, on which even small markings stand out.

How the sheet is applied

It is a classic waterslide decal. Cut the element out as close to the print as possible, soak it in lukewarm water for a few seconds and let it rest on a paper towel until it starts to release from its backing by itself. The base under the decal has to be smooth and glossy; on a matte varnish a silvery haze appears under the carrier film which can no longer be removed. Slide the decal into place with a soft brush, blot the excess water with a cloth and use a decal softener on edges and pressings. Once dry, clear-coat everything so that the edges of the film disappear.

Who the sheet is for

For builders of postwar military subjects and for anyone who wants a model in a particular guise. What the sheet holds and which kit it is cut for are given in the manufacturer's enclosed instructions. The package holds the decals only; the model, paints, varnish and decal softener are not included, unless stated otherwise.