PMA 1/48 RoCAF E-2C E-2T 2000 100th Anniversary Decals
By Winston Gould
PMA Decals has released several decal sheets that focus on Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF) subjects. Sheet PMAD006 covers six E-2 Hawkeye aircraft by serial number. The instructions show two E-2C Hawkeye Airborne Early Warning (AEW) aircraft with Centennial Anniversary Markings for the Republic of China (ROC) – one in high-visibility (E-2C 166418/2505) and one low-visibility scheme (E-2C 166419/2506). An E-2T/E-2T 2000 (The ROCAF version of the upgraded U.S. E-2C Hawkeye 2000) in a high-visibility scheme. There is a table on the instructions that matches the U.S. Navy Bureau Numbers with the applicable ROCAF serial numbers – so you could build any of the ROCAF E-2C/E-2T/E-2T 2000 machines.
The complete package comes in a resealable poly bag – however, beware of the adhesive when you replace the items in the bag. All E-2C/T/T 2000 USN Bureau Numbers and ROCAF Serial Numbers are on the decal sheet. Also included are the high-visibility and low-visibility national markings and unit badges. However, stencils are only provided for one aircraft. NOTE: The Kinetic and Italeri stencils are more than adequate to use for another E-2 if you have two kits you want to make. I plan on making a high-visibility E-2C and a low-visibility E-2T 2000. As always, trim close to the decal and test-fit dry.
Comprehensive instructions leave no doubt about placement of the stencils and major squadron markings. Instruction paint color call-outs are for Mr. Color. In addition, there are a couple of color photos on DXM's shop page for this decal sheet.
These markings should fit the Kinetic E-2C and E-2C 2000 kits as well as the Italeri E-2C/E-2C 2000 kit with no problems. I recommend plenty of internet and book research.
References:
The official U.S. Navy E-2 site: https://www.history.navy.mil/planes/e2.htm.
The Northrop Grumman E-2 2000 site
My thanks to DXM for sending this detail set in for review.