1:72 McDonnell F-15J Eagle

Eduard 1:72 McDonnell F-15J Eagle masking set

This set of masks from the Czech manufacturer Eduard is meant for painting a 1:72 model of the F-15J fighter. Masks are used wherever a sharp border is needed between two shades, or between paint and a clear part - typically on the framing of the canopy. It is not a kit or a photo-etched set, but an aid for the painting stage.

The real subject

The F-15J is the Japanese variant of the American F-15 Eagle air superiority fighter. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force introduced it in the second half of the 1970s and the great majority of airframes were built under license in Japan itself. The aircraft became the backbone of Japanese air defense, flies from several bases across the archipelago and has been through an extensive avionics upgrade. It carries the characteristic pair of vertical tails and large rectangular air intakes.

Painting tips

• Degrease the surface under the mask and let it dry completely.
• Spray the canopy frames with the interior shade first.
• Apply the paint at right angles to the edge of the mask so that it does not creep underneath.
• Lift the mask while the paint is still fresh, using sharp tweezers.

Who the set suits

• Anyone interested in modern jets in 1:72 scale.
• Modelers building Japanese Self-Defense Force equipment.
• Those who cannot get a straight line on a canopy frame with a brush.

The aircraft model, paints and other accessories are not in the box.