1:48 P-38 J Lightning

P-38J Lightning 1:48 (Italeri)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the American twin-engine Lockheed P-38J Lightning fighter in 1:48 scale from the Italian maker Italeri. The model captures the characteristic twin-boom layout of this fighter. The box contains photo-etched parts, a decal sheet for several color schemes and a color instruction sheet.

The real subject

The P-38 Lightning was a ground-breaking American heavy fighter with two tail booms, between which the cockpit and the concentrated armament were housed in a central nacelle. It was powered by two liquid-cooled Allison V-1710 engines with turbochargers, each of about 1425 horsepower, which took the aircraft to over 660 km/h. The Lightning stood out for its range and its high-altitude performance, and it served as a fighter, a bomber escort, a photo-reconnaissance and a ground-attack machine. The P-38J version had improved cooling and was among the most widespread.

Building and painting tips

Given the two booms, mind the exact alignment of the engine nacelles and the central cockpit so that the model does not sit askew; dry-fitting will help. Work up the cockpit and the photo-etched parts and bring them out with a wash, and mask the glazing. Glue the plastic with a thin modeling cement, unify the base with a primer and apply the paint with an airbrush. A number of machines flew in natural metal, where metallic shades and panel transitions come into their own; others wore olive drab. Fit the drop tanks and the bombs according to the scheme you choose, and complete the weathering with washes and exhaust staining.

Who the model is for

• Fans of the US Army Air Forces and of unconventional designs
• Collectors of twin-engine fighters in 1:48 scale
• Modelers who appreciate photo-etched parts and natural metal schemes
• More experienced builders who can manage the alignment of two booms

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.