 Cutting Edge 1/48 F/EF-111 Aardvark & SparkVarks
I don't know why, but for some reason the F-111 has always appealed
to me. While the Hasegawa 1/72 kits have managed to keep my quite happy
in that scale, this sheet from Cutting Edge has me eyeing the Minicraft/Academy
kit. The sheet comes with markings for three aircraft, two EF-111As
and one F-111F.
The two EF-111As are from the 429th ECS, 27th FW based out of Incirlik,
Turkey for operations Provide Comfort and Southern Watch. They are finished
in the standard two-tone gray camouflage, and both feature some interesting
nose art. The first, serialed 666013, has a large and colorful pirate
head, with the name "Yankee Air Pirate" written above it. It also carries
the name "Duck" under the canopy. The second option is called "Strong
Arm Tactics" hand has a painting of Batman with one arm outstretched.
Either of these would make for an interesting EF-111A, and in addition
to the nose art, a complete set of squadron markings and slime lights
is included. There is also some extra serials provided for a generic
429th ECS aircraft.
 For the F-111F, this plane comes from the 27th FW at Cannon AFB, New
Mexico. The markings for this plane are for the farewell ceremony held
at Fort Worth, Texas on July 27, 1996. Finished in overall dark gray,
the tail has the yellow band with the word "Hounds" in it, and the usual
squadron and ACC badges. Also present is a very large and colorful piece
of farewell artwork on the nose, incorporating the Statue of Liberty
and several ribbons denoting the operational record of the F-111. This
would be a great F-111F to build.
The decals are up to the usual standard of Cutting Edge, with good
register and color density. There should be no problems with application,
and the interesting markings will make your next 'Vark really stand out.
My thanks to Meteor Productions for the review sample. |
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