If you’re a fan of the venerable ‘Viper’ and special schemes, you’ll be bowled over by Two Bobs’ latest 1/48 decal release.
What are arguably two of the coolest-looking F-16 schemes have been issued on the same fresh decal sheet from US firm Two Bobs. Item 48-282 F-16C/D Wild Ducks centres on Block 42 airframes flown by the USAF’s 309th Fighter Squadron. The first livery is an eye-popping affair whereby F-16C 89-2120 is painted in two shades of blue, plus white, and has a lightning bolt-wielding cartoon duck on both sides of the vertical stabiliser. This jet marks the 80th anniversary of the squadron. Notably, dark blue and white segments adorn the upper/lower wings, horizontal tails and air intake sides... two full sheets of vinyl masks being provided to help render the pattern.
Read about Two Bobs' recent 1/48 F-16 'Press to Test Anniversary' decals
The other option, F-16D 90-778, wears a two-tone desert pattern of FS 33448 and 33711 over 36375, plus special MIG KILLER and OPERATION SOUTHERN WATCH legends on the vertical tail. This aircraft is a true history maker, as it was the first F-16 to score a ‘kill’ with an AMRAAM missile and the only ‘Viper’ to have downed a MiG-25. This event occurred on December 27, 1992 during Operation Southern Watch over Iraq, the F-16 pilot in question being (now) Gen Gary North. Both schemes were created by talented artist within the unit, Sgt Michael Cichonsky, who helped with references for this decal sheet.
As usual, Two Bobs’ instructions offer excellent colour artwork, full quotes for Federal Standard paint shades, plus equivalent codes for AK, Hataka, Mr Color and Mr Paint brands. If you’re a die-hard F-16 fan and want to build a decidedly different example, this decal sheet is a must. It costs $17 direct from Two Bobs but it’s also available via Hannants in the UK.
