1:48 Mitsubishi A6M2 Zero national insignia

The real subject and the markings

The A6M2 is an early production version of the Japanese Mitsubishi A6M Zero carrier fighter, a machine prized for its agility and long range. The national insignia of the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service was a red disc. It was carried on both sides of the fuselage and on the upper and lower surfaces of the wing, six markings in all, whose size and position differed between versions.

What the sheet contains

A sheet of national insignia in 1:48 scale. The markings from a kit tend to be printed in a different shade of red or with shifted dimensions, and a separate sheet lets you use the version that matches the machine you have chosen. How many markings the sheet carries and in how many sizes, and which kit it is drawn for, are given in the manufacturer's instructions.

How to apply the decals

Before you soak the sheet, check in the instructions whether it is a self-adhesive version: a soaked self-adhesive film is ruined beyond repair, whereas a wet decal can be soaked at any time later. With an ordinary wet sheet, varnish the area under the marking to a gloss, or a white haze will appear around the carrier film. Cut the marking out close to the printed area, dip it in lukewarm water for a few seconds and let it rest until it slides freely on the paper. Transfer it onto a moistened spot, position it and draw off the excess water with a soft cloth from the center to the edges. A softener settles the film into the engraving; once it has been applied the decal can no longer be moved.

• a sheet of national insignia in 1:48 scale
• the subject is the Mitsubishi A6M2 Zero
• the red disc of the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service
• the scope of the sheet and the intended kit are given in the manufacturer's instructions
• before soaking, check whether it is a self-adhesive version

Terms of supply

The aircraft model, the paints, the varnishes and the softener are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.