1:48 McDonnell-Douglas FGR.2 Phantom

A decal sheet for the British Phantom FGR.2, 1:48 scale

Xtradecal has long specialized in the markings of Royal Air Force and Fleet Air Arm aircraft. This sheet belongs to the FGR.2 version, that is to the British Phantom. In the package you will find a printed sheet and no plastic parts, so it assumes that you already have a model or will buy one separately.

The Phantom the British way

The Phantom FGR.2 is the British form of the American two-seat twin-engine machine, which the RAF had modified to its own requirements. The most striking change was the replacement of the original American engines with Rolls-Royce Spey turbofans, which called for a deeper rear fuselage and noticeably larger air intakes. The British Phantom started out as a multi-role machine for ground attack and reconnaissance, but after the Jaguar was introduced it moved to air defense. It served with squadrons in Great Britain and with the forces stationed in what was then Germany, and at one point it was the backbone of British fighter aviation.

Recommended procedure

• British Phantoms carried both prominent colorful markings and the later subdued form, so match the degree of gloss to that.
• Try the large elements dry in place first, so that they sit correctly in relation to the panel joints.
• Let a gray-green or dark gray finish cure properly, otherwise it will lift under the decal.
• The rounded edges of the nose and the fin call for more softener and patience.

Suitable for modelers focused on British Cold War jet aviation and for anyone who wants a Phantom in a different coat.