1:72 North-American P-51D Mustangs from the 4th FG

P-51D Mustangs of the 4th Fighter Group in 1:72

Xtradecal markings devoted to the P-51D machines of one of the best known fighter groups of the Eighth Air Force. The package contains a printed sheet; choose the plastic Mustang model to suit yourself and transfer the markings onto it.

The group that began with the Eagle Squadrons

The roots of the 4th Fighter Group go back to the volunteer squadrons of American pilots serving in the Royal Air Force. After the United States entered the war these units were transferred to the US Army Air Forces and formed the basis of a new fighter group based in England. It flew several types in turn before it moved on to the Mustang, and it was with this aircraft that it escorted bomber formations deep over Germany and became one of the most successful groups of the whole Eighth Air Force. The P-51D version is the most widespread variant of the type: it has a bubble canopy with a perfect view, a cut-down rear fuselage, six heavy machine guns in the wing and a supercharged Merlin V12 with a four-blade propeller. Most machines flew in a polished bare metal finish, which is still among the most demanding surfaces a modeler can take on.

Glossy silver surfaces and decals

Metal sheen is the hardest discipline for markings, because even a small bubble shows. Varnish with a thin coat of gloss, blot the insignia perfectly dry and wait at least a day before the next coat. On large areas it helps to divide the decal along a panel line with a scalpel.

Intended for modelers

• building American escort fighters
• interested in the daylight raids over Europe
• practicing polished metal surfaces
• adding new markings to older Mustang models