Israeli aftermarket specialist IsraDecal has released a superb 1/48 conversion for that country’s F-4E Kurnass airframes… and a wealth of relevant decals. CHRIS CLIFFORD investigates.
While Israeli F-4E Phantoms may look similar to those flown by the USAF and other air arms, they had particular nuances not offered in any kits. IsraDecal Studio’s awareness of these unique structural traits has materialised in the form of a new conversion set (IC48068) under the IsraCast sub-brand.
Both 3D-printed and cast resin parts are provided, as well as photo-etched brass and turned aluminium items. The first medium is employed for missile rails and ‘elbow’ extenders particular to the Python 3 weapon. Also 3D-printed are a centreline pylon to which you mount an multiple ejector rack (not included), chaff/flare cassettes for the rear Sparrow missile bays, a forward Sparrow bay pylon for an AIM-9 Sidewinder rail, and the base for an in-flight refuelling probe. The front part of that item is provided in turned aluminium (as is a nose pitot probe). The refuelling probe is ‘cranked’ via a clever resin jig. Another cast resin piece is a forward Sparrow bay adapter for the AIM-9 rail pylon.
The photo-etched brass parts include bespoke armour plat…
