1:144 Tupolev Tu154/B (Malev) for Zvezda

The real subject

The Tupolev Tu-154 is a Soviet three-engine jet airliner of the medium class. It carries two engines on the sides of the rear fuselage, the third is built into the axis of the tail, and it has a T-tail. The B version was the most widespread form in the period when the type made up the backbone of scheduled traffic in eastern Europe. The Hungarian company Malev was among its European operators.

What the sheet contains

Decals in the colors of Malev for a model of the Tu-154 in the B version in 1:144 scale. The sheet allows for the shape of the Zvezda kit, so the spacing of the windows, of the strips along the fuselage and of the items on the tail surfaces matches its parts. It is applied as a classic waterslide decal: the item is cut off, briefly soaked and slid off the backing onto the model.

Application tips

• Coat the area under the decal with gloss varnish; on a matte surface silvery patches form under the carrier film.
• Apply the long strips along the fuselage one at a time and check the position against the windows between steps.
• In the water only loosen the decal and slide it off directly in place.
• Soak the excess water away and press the area down carefully with a cotton swab.
• On rounded places and across engraved lines use a decal softener.
• Secure the finished work with varnish in the degree of gloss you want.

Who it is for

For modelers who build airliners in a small scale and want a particular European airline color version. Even a less experienced builder will manage the application; what matters is a steady hand with the long strips and enough light above the workbench.

The package contains the decals only. The kit, paints and varnish are not included, unless stated otherwise.