MRP-A076 RLM 83 Dunkelgrun

A color researchers still argue about

The designation RLM 83 carries one of the most debated German aviation tones. Most literature and modeling practice sees it as a rich dark green that appeared on fighter upper surfaces from 1944 alongside the brownish-violet RLM 81 and the lighter RLM 82. A smaller but vocal group of authors argues that the same number actually referred to a dark blue intended for naval aircraft. This bottle follows the more widespread green interpretation, since it matches the schemes found in the instructions of current kits.

Where it is useful

You will use it most often on late-war fighters from dispersed production, on aircraft with wooden tail surfaces, and on machines from the last months of the conflict, when camouflage patches lost their soft transitions and were applied hastily, straight in makeshift workshops. The green also works well as an accent alongside darker patches on late ground-attack aircraft.

Spraying and maintenance

Stir the contents thoroughly before work and apply it in thin coats. Sharp-edged camouflage patches are achieved with a cardboard template held close to the surface; a soft transition, on the other hand, with lower pressure and a greater distance. After spraying, flush the gun with water before the acrylic dries in the nozzle. It is a good idea to seal the dried film with varnish before further steps, since a bare matte surface readily soaks up pigments and oil paints, making the shade look muddier than it actually is.