1/48 Hasegawa F-16CJ Block 52

Gallery Article by Sebastian Lim

 

Republic of Singapore Air Force F-16CJ Block 52 

This kit was built straight out of the box. The only modification added were the AIFF aerials. Since the RSAF Vipers are powered by the P&W F100-PW-229, small-mouth intakes were used. The bulged wheel door, together with the larger wheels, were also added.  Though the RSAF has confirmed the sale of the AIM-120 AMRAAM, the missiles are still currently kept in storage in the US, despite what you see above ;) The AIM-9P, in gray overall, is a standard A2A loadout. Both the 370/300 gal tanks are only used for missions out in the South China Sea. RSAF KC-135R are also on standy for such routine missions.

 

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Front view of the Viper, shows the AIFF aerials and its A2A loadout. Close up view of the AIFF aerials, standard config for all RSAF F-16C/D Vipers. Note absence of LANTIRN pods.

The 140Sqn emblem, depicts a eagle's talon over the island of Singapore, are printed using the Alps MD-5000. The numbers and the lionhead are similarly printed. A coat of FUTURE is applied on the canopy. Gunze Enamels, H305, 306, 307 & 308, were used for the standard Viper scheme.

If you are planning on building this plane, I would recommend in 1/72 that you use the Hasegawa F-16CJ (Block 50) Fighting Falcon D18-00448.  In 1/48 I would recommend you use the Hasegawa F-16CJ (Block 50) Fighting Falcon V10-06110.  As for decals.....the ones for my model above were custom made on an Alps MD-5000 printer.

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MyAirfix Models
http://www.myairfix.com
Republic Of Singapore

Sebastian Lim

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Bottom-view of the Viper. It's interesting to note that RSAF maintains its Viper fleet really well! I found it to 'weather' the aircraft!

 

      

Photos and text © by Sebastian Lim