Two Bobs Aviation Graphics

 Patriot Hornets F/A18C decal sheet

1/32 scale product #32-016

1/48 scale product #48062

Review by Steve Bamford on Sept 25 2003

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This latest sheet from Two Bobs is a very colorful and patriotic sheet designed for the new Academy kit.  Both of these jets feature flag artwork that covers the entire speed brake area.  These jets are F/A-18A+ jets which mean they have the older "A" style vertical stab.  This is an easy modification to do on the Academy kit and Black Box is also releasing an A model update set very soon.

The first aircraft is 163133 VMFA-115 - Commanders bird that deployed on the USS Harry S. Truman in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.  Very colorful jet that sports OIF nose art on the jet that was applied during the return leg of the deployment.  There is a full size American flag that adorns the speed brake on this jet.  Another interesting marking is the false canopy on the underside of this jet.  Not too many Hornets in the US still carry this form of camouflage anymore.  This A/C is unique in that it also carries the five-blade AN/APX-111 IFF antennas on it's nose forward of the windscreen.

The second aircraft is 162904 VFA-201 - CAG jet from the USS Theodore Roosevelt.

This aircraft also sports a little piece of artwork on it's nose along with mission markings.  Once again though, the most striking marking on this jet is the speed brake artwork.  A/C 200 has the US Navy Jack predominantly displayed and it covers the entire speed brake.  VFA-201 made history by being the first Navy Reserve unit to be fully mobilized since the 1950's and they took many of the honors that are awarded to squadrons during a cruise.

 

There is one set of stencil data available on this sheet so one complete jet can be built.  This sheet is also being released in 1/48th scale and that sheet features two sets of stencil data and enough markings for two complete jets.

Carl Richards and Greg Davis were a very big help in supplying references on this sheet. 

The decals are loaded with Red, White and Blue as well as Stars and Stripes.  I quite enjoyed the amount of colour on this decal sheet.  The decals on both scales are crisp and clearly printed.  One of these jets has a false canopy on the bottom and no decals are included for this, but it's easier to paint a false canopy rather than use decals..... especially if the gear doors are open.

This sheet is available through http://www.twobobs.net/ and select US Hobby Shops.  Overseas customers can purchase these from Twobobs site or through Twobobs network of overseas distributors.  Remember, shipping is always FREE to US Customers at Twobobs!! 

Steve

Photos and text © by Steve Bamford