1:72 Belgian F-35 generic set

The Belgian F-35 takes over from the Vipers

Belgium announced its choice of the single-seat F-35A in the fall of 2018 and so closed a long search for a successor to the upgraded F-16AM. The contract was for thirty-four airframes and is gradually ending a chapter in which the Belgian Vipers were among the hardest worked in Western Europe. The new generation carries sober low-contrast markings, which differ from the colorful 1980s at first glance.

Why a generic set

The sheet deliberately does not aim at a single machine. It concentrates on what the Belgian airframes have in common: national roundels, fuselage and fin numbers made up of individual numerals and the small lettering around the air intakes, the filler port and the weapons bays. That lets the builder put together exactly the example he has in a photograph, without being bound to one particular serial number.

Recommended procedure

The base must be smooth and glossy, or air will take hold under the film. Cut the insignia out close to the print, immerse it for a few seconds in lukewarm water and let it rest on the paper until it releases of its own accord. Once settled, blot the water away and press gently with a soft cloth. The light gray elements will take only a mild decal softener; a stronger product could make them wrinkle. A final semi-matte sealing coat will even out the differences in sheen and hide the edges.

The small things that decide it

Low-contrast insignia are tricky in that they almost disappear on a gray airframe. That is exactly why it pays not to hurry with the finest lettering: in a small scale it creates a texture that gives the finished model a convincing sense of size and sets it apart from a smoothly sprayed mock-up.