Twobobs Aviation Graphics | F-15E Strike Eagles in 1/32nd scale Iraqi Freedom Saddam Hunters 32-020
Reviewed by Mark Proulx
Twobobs Aviation Graphics continues to offer accurate and current markings for aircraft involved in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). Their latest 1/32nd scale release and subject of this review is titled F-15E Iraqi Freedom Saddam Hunters.
Markings are supplied for five Strike Eagles of the 366th FS, each of which includes some very
colorful nose art. They include:
- The Saddam Hunter BuNo 88-1706
- Southern Outlaw BuNo 89-0490
- Dirty Bird BuNo 89-0494
- 4 Warned BuNo 87-0195
- Bombay Sapphire BuNo 89-0495
The instruction sheet is printed over a single page. The front page incorporates left and right side views of two of the subject aircraft. Scrap views identify proper marking placement for the other three. Nine thumbnail images highlight areas of interest about each of the aircraft nose art. Twobobs also suggest a listing of available kits and aftermarket products. The other side of the instruction sheet details the upper and lower views of the Strike Eagle. The color guide and FS 595b color chip is referenced to paints from Testors, Humbrol, Gunze Sangyo and Xtracolor. Information is also included identifying typical loadouts for missions during OIF. Captain Randall "Hacker" Haskin is credited with painting some of the artwork on the fuselage of these F-15E's. The instructions include his thoughts about the artwork. This welcome addition gives a brief history of the 366th FS "Rocketeers" and describes the importance of nose art to the tradition of the 4th Fighter Wing. Others credited for their artistic work are SSgt Jason Henton, A1C Ryan Stafford, A1C William Gillmer and SrA Richard Bugbee. A large image of the Strike Eagle nose art titled The Saddam Hunter completes the instructions.
The decals are printed by Microscale over two pages. Carrier film appears to be at a minimum and I expect no difficulty with them. Stencils and national insignia are also supplied on a second sheet and there are enough to complete one aircraft. Note: This sheet is not shown with this review. The markings are in perfect register. Due to the size of the font on the instructions it may be difficult to identify proper stencil location.
Twobobs Aviation Graphics continues to expand their decal line with the most up to date and accurate markings of today's military. Accuracy and quality is assured with this release by incorporating input from the artists. These markings are a welcome addition to anyone with an interest in the F-15 Strike Eagle or the long tradition of aircraft nose art. I recommend this decal sheet without hesitation.
Review sample compliments of Twobobs Aviation Graphics.
© Mark Proulx 2004
This review was published on Saturday, July 02 2011; Last modified on Wednesday, May 18 2016