1:72 Bell P-39/P-400 Airacobra over Solomons Islands

The real subject

The Bell P-39 Airacobra had an unusual layout for its day. The engine sat behind the pilot's back and a long shaft ran from it to the propeller under the cockpit floor, so the nose was left free for the armament and for a nose landing gear, which let the aircraft stand level on the ground. Power came from an Allison V12. The designation P-400 was carried by the export version originally ordered by Britain and taken over in the end by the US Army Air Forces. In the Pacific these machines served mainly at low level against ground targets.

The sheet

The decals are printed for models in 1:72 scale and cover machines flown over the Solomon Islands. How many marking options the sheet offers and which kits they fit in shape is given in the instructions enclosed with the sheet. Compare serial numbers and personal markings against references for the particular machine, because finishes were touched up and repainted during operations.

How to apply the decals

Decals hold best on a smooth gloss surface; under flat varnish air stays in the small irregularities and the marking turns white. Coat the area with gloss varnish beforehand. Trim the decal close to the edge, soak it for a few seconds in lukewarm water and let it rest until it slides freely on the paper. Carry it onto the model together with the paper, slide the paper out from underneath and align it with a soft brush. Blot the excess water away and let it dry; over rivets and panel joints a softener helps.

• a decal sheet in 1:72 scale
• markings of Bell P-39 and P-400 Airacobra fighters
• machines flown over the Solomon Islands
• wet decals, applied over a gloss base

Terms of supply

The kit, paints, gloss varnish and a softener are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.