1:72 Ju-87B

1:72 Ju-87B decals (Bilek)

A sheet of wet decals in 1:72 scale from the Czech manufacturer Bilek. The package holds only markings, not a kit and no plastic parts, and serves to add to or replace the decals from your own box. The particular schemes and their number are stated on the box and in the instructions for the set. We recommend laying the sheet against the parts of the model before building and checking the position of the markings.

The real subject

The Ju-87B is a single-engine all-metal dive bomber with a characteristic inverted gull wing and fixed landing gear in aerodynamic fairings. The B version is the early production guise with a tandem two-seat cockpit and cowling adapted to a more powerful engine. The design was subordinated to the dive attack, which is what the dive brakes under the wing and the automatic pull-out system answered to. The individual versions differ in the details of the cowling and the landing gear fairings, which matters when choosing markings.

Applying the decals

Varnish the surface under the decals with a gloss clear coat compatible with the paint used, otherwise silvering under the film is a risk. Soak the decal briefly in warm water, let it release on paper and move it across with a soft brush. Draw the water off, use a decal softener at the engraved lines and the transitions and let the film settle without sliding it about. Apply large areas of marking in sections. Once it is completely dry, unify the surface with a matte varnish.

Who the set is for

• Builders of Second World War aircraft models in 1:72 scale
• Modelers with older kits where the decals have yellowed or cracked
• Anyone after a different marking variant from the one the box offers
• More experienced modelers who work with softeners and with varnishing under decals

This is an accessory — a sheet of decals. The kit, paints, glue and varnishes are not included in the package.