AoA Decals | 32-010: Combat Scooters (I) USN/USMC A-4E Skyhawks in the Vietnam War

Reviewed by LSP_Paul

More colorful decals for A-4s from AoA Decals!

What's in the Set

VMA-223 Bulldogs - 5 options from Chu Lai, South Vietnam, spanning betwen 1966-69

VA-94 Mighty Shrikes - 4 options: 1 from USS Bon Homme Richard 1968, 1 from USS Bon Homme Richard 1969 (CAG scheme), and 2 from USS Bon Homme Richard 1970 (one CAG, one line scheme).

VA-106 Gladiators - 1 option from USS Intrepid 1968-69

As usual with AOA releases, an extensive airframe stencil sheet is also included. Stencils are provided for one A-4; however, the stencil sheet is also available to purchase separately (see 32-012).

Decals also included for VA-94 and VA-106 fuel tanks (VMA-223 generally had plain white fuel tanks without any squadron markings/identifiers).

Profiles and Instructions

AoA delivers once again by providing information for everything on each aircraft down to the most minute detail. You get a very extensive aircraft stencil set with very clear instructions for placement for stencils and aircraft specific markings. The squadron markings offered are both accurate, well printed and visually interesting.

The Decals

The decals are printed by Cartograf, are thin, very sharply detailed, the tiny stencils are legible under magnification. The carrier film is so minimal you have to look for it on the backing sheet, really nicely done. You will notice that one of the stars and bars on the sheet appears deformed, this is to allow it to drape over the refueling probe fairing on the right side of the nose. Careful application will see this part fit just right.

Conclusion

Once again AoA has brought out a set of decals that truly follow the companies standard for excellent research, interesting subjects, incredible attention to detail and an outstanding set of decals.

Thank you to AoA Decals for the opportunity to review these wonderful decals!