USAF, USN & USMC paint set (modern greys)

Eight grays to the federal standard

Since the 1970s modern American combat aircraft have moved almost entirely within the gray range, and the differences between the individual tones are often so fine that they cannot be guessed without a reference number. The set therefore relies on shades tied to the standard: Light Ghost Grey FS36375 and Dark Ghost Grey FS36320 form the basis of Navy and Marine Corps finishes and appear on the A-10 and the F-16 as well.

Gunship Grey FS36118 and Grey FS36270 belong to the so-called Hill One pattern on the Phantom in the C, D, E and G versions and to two-tone and three-tone F-16s. Medium Grey FS35237 covers the upper surfaces of early F/A-18s, A-6s and F-14s, Dark Gull Grey FS36231 came to the AV-8B Harrier after Operation Desert Storm, and Light Grey FS36495 belongs to the undersides of the first Hornets of the years 1980 to 1983. Have Glass Grey FS36170 closes the selection with the finish of the F-16C, the F-16D and every version of the F-35.

Application and how far it goes

Being in the Blue Line means a water-based acrylic binder; the tools wash out with water and no solvent smell hangs over the bench. Each pattern combines only two or three tones, so several different models can be built from the eight bottles over time.

Because the shades differ only slightly, it is advisable to plan the order of the coats before building and to mask once the previous surface has dried.

Anyone who builds modern American aircraft regularly will appreciate that a palette bought once covers types that are still waiting in the cupboard. The individual tones complement one another and leave room for lightening the panels with a lighter gray from the same set.