1:72 Gloster Javelin Mk-4 Part 3

The version that got a moving tailplane

The fourth production variant of the British delta fighter brought a substantial change in control. The tailplane stopped being a fixed surface with an elevator and began to be set as a whole, which improved the behavior of the machine at higher speeds. From outside it is barely noticeable, but in flying practice it was a fundamental difference. The airplanes of this variant served with squadrons at home and with the formation deployed in West Germany.

Seven machines, seven handwritings

What is interesting about this selection is how differently the individual squadrons interpreted the same regulation. One unit repeated the last three digits of the serial number in white on the fin, another placed its marking between white bars, a further one set it into a bright green band around the fin or into a blue arrow edged in red. One machine carries its code in black on a white disc with a black outline. The descriptions with the options give the base and the year, so it can be traced how the markings changed over three years.

Building recommendation

The unit markings on the fin are the main attraction here and at the same time the most delicate part of the work. The fin has a rounded leading edge, a decal has to be bent over it, and without a softener that will not end well. Apply onto a gloss surface and let it dry thoroughly, and only then matte it.

In the package you will find a printed sheet and nothing more. The model, paints and glue are ordered separately. Before choosing an option it pays to compare the shape of the fin on the kit you have, because it differed slightly between production series and a unit marking may then not fit the place intended.