1:72 F-35C Lightning-II wheels

F-35C Lightning II, resin wheels 1:72 (Armory)

This set replaces the plastic wheels of a model of the carrier-based F-35C version in 1:72 scale. The manufacturer lists it separately from the sets for the land-based and short-takeoff versions, because the carrier machine has its own landing gear adapted to catapult launches and arrested landings. For a modeler this means a simple rule: do not swap the sets between versions.

The real subject

The F-35C is the naval carrier version of the F-35 family, intended for operation from aircraft carriers. Compared with the land-based version it has a greater wing area and a more sturdily engineered landing gear, which has to withstand a hard touchdown on the deck as well as the loads of a catapult launch. Carrier aircraft also live in a far more aggressive environment, which shows on them around the landing gear too.

Working and painting

After washing and removing the casting blocks, apply primer and only then paint. On a carrier machine there is more room for weathering than on the land-based version: the tires tend to be polished on the crown, the sidewalls more matte, and dirt collects in the recesses of the hub. Proceed with restraint, however, as this is not a field airstrip. A dark gray tire, a matte coat and fine emphasis of the shadows in the hub with a thinned wash all work well. Mask the hub with a circular mask or with tape around the circumference; tape holds well on resin provided the surface is clean and degreased.

Who the set is for

• Builders of carrier aircraft who want the correct version of the wheels
• Modelers who refine the landing gear as the most visible part of a model
• Collectors building up a set of the versions of the F-35 family
• Those who photograph a finished model from close range

The set is supplied unpainted, as resin castings intended for further work. Paints, glue and the model of the aircraft are not included in the package.