“Moonlighters”

MAW Decals, 1/48 scale

Reviewed by Ken Bowes

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A timely release from MAW Decals, Moonlighters covers two F/A-18Ds of VMFA(AW)-332. This sheet is timely as VMFA(AW)-332 was transitioned into cadre status on 1 April 2007 and its Unit Colors cased until the time that the V/STOL F-35 Joint Strike Fighter enters USMC service. VMFA(AW)-332 has a proud history dating back to June 1943 and seeing service in WWII, Korea and more recently the Balkans. Transitioning to the F/A-18D in the middle of 1993 saw VMFA(AW)-332 involved in many missions in support of UN and NATO operations in the former Yugoslavia from 1994-1996.

This sheet provides markings from the more recent history of the Moonlighters, starting with Operation Allied Force in 1999 and onto Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005. Two colour and one lo-viz grey example cover two individual F/A-18Ds are provided, designed to be used with the Hasegawa 1/48 kit, but probably suitable for others such as the new Hobby Boss kit.

The subjects of this sheet are:

• 164705 from April 2004 which has colourful Moonlighters tail art;
• 164705 again, this time from Operation Iraqi Freedom during the period July 2005 – February 2006. This is same jet as above but with considerably more colourful artwork highlighting the Squadrons role in supporting II MEF and the 2d Marine Division. Many good photos of this aircraft can be found in the photo album on VMFA(AW)-332’s website.

and

• 164959 which is a lo-viz aircraft from Operation Allied Force, where VMFA(AW)-332 flew 120 combat sorties from May to June 1999.

The decals on this sheet are spread across one and half standard size Microscale sheets plus two small inserts for formation lights. Given the colour and complexity of the sheets it is a credit that the cost of the sheet has been kept to US$11.99. MAW’s sheets are very well printed, being very thin with minimal carrier film. The complex designs themselves are in perfect register. The decals are easy to use and respond well to the usual solutions without damage. Being thin, they conform well to details over which they are laid.

From a production values perspective it is worth noting that the clear and concise instructions are now on glossy paper as opposed to plain paper of earlier sheets. Details include colour call outs and notes on small details such as antenna, gun gas vents and ejection seats are provided. Whilst a page of suggested weapons loadouts is provided I would recommend visiting the official website which will give clear ideas on an appropriate OIF configuration. Overall there is little more that a modeler could wish for from these decals.

Highly Recommended.

Thanks to MAW Decals for the review sample.

Click the thumbnails below to view larger images:

Review Copyright © 2007 by Ken Bowes
This Page Created on 26 April, 2007
Last updated 04 June, 2007

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