1:72 Handley-Page Halifax B.II Series 1A/B.II Series 1A Special

Halifax B.II Series 1A markings in 1:72

An Xtradecal decal sheet for models of the Halifax heavy night bomber in the bomber versions named in the title. The package consists of a printed film with its backing paper; the bomber kit has to be obtained separately.

The Handley Page heavy bomber

Alongside the Lancaster, the Halifax was the second pillar of British bomber aviation and the first of the four-engined types to take part in the night campaign over Germany. The B.II version was powered by V12 Merlin engines, and it was set apart from the other variants by a series of progressive modifications aimed at reducing drag and improving performance, because the original form had trouble with its ceiling. These modifications included replacing the angular nose turret with a smooth transparent fairing over the nose, changes in the layout of the dorsal defensive armament and work on the exhaust system. Within the version, the designation Special was used precisely for machines lightened and aerodynamically cleaned up in this way. Halifaxes later served for glider towing, transport and special duties as well, which gave them an exceptionally varied range of markings.

Large surfaces and matte black

Night finish is deeply flat, and markings silver on it more than anywhere else. It therefore pays to polish the places under the decals and coat them with gloss varnish, apply the markings and finally unify the whole surface with a matte overcoat. On a long fuselage it is a good idea to start with the national insignia and work the codes out from them, so that the markings do not drift off the center line.

Who the sheet will help

• builders of British heavy bombers
• anyone interested in the night raids and Bomber Command
• modelers reconstructing particular operational machines
• collections of four-engined aircraft in 1:72