Albatros Modelworks 'Marauding Corsairs' By Michael Benolkin

If you haven't heard of Albatros Modelworks decals yet, you've been missing out on some spectacular work. In keeping with their previous releases, Albatros has focused on the LTV A-7 Corsair II with some fascinating examples from various users around the world.

As you know, the SLUF (Short Little Ugly, er, Fella) started service with the US Navy. The early A-7A and A-7B versions gave way to the A-7E, which would serve as the Navy's standard light attack platform. Tactical air operations in Southeast Asia forced the USAF into a near-term requirement and the A-7D would become their solution. As the A-7 began to phase out of active US service, many of the airframes were reconditioned and updated for service in other allied air forces including Greece, Portugal and Thailand.

If you're a SLUF-lover, you'll know that there have been a wide variety of decals offered for A-7s in USN and USAF service, but virtually nothing for non-US SLUF operators - until now. Since most of the decals for US versions of the A-7 are out of print, Albatros has provided two examples in addition to some attractive non-US schemes:

• A-7D, 71-354, 353 TFS/354 TFW, USAF, stationed at Korat RTAFB, 1972

• A-7E, 159975, NK300, VA-97, USN, USS Coral Sea, Jan 1980

• A-7E, 156746, Royal Thai Navy, 1995

• A-7E, 159962, 335 Tiger Sqn/116 FW, Hellenic AF

• A-7H, 159662, 340 Fox Sqn/115 FW, Hellenic AF

• A-7P, 15521, 304 Sqn, Commemorative Markings, Portuguese AF, 1999

This decal set is supplied on three full sheets! Two of the sheets cover the unique markings and national markings for all six examples, while the third sheet provides more than enough stencils for one aircraft and also provides the unique warning marks as well. You'll also note in the scans two smaller sheets included in the package. These are corrections to the main sheets whose errors were evidently discovered before their release. Good show!

The decal set is accompanied by three pages of color profiles that show all four views of the paint schemes, the associated FS color numbers, decal placement, and a brief summary of each subject. Two additional black & white pages are also included to show placement of the maintenance stenciling.

Conclusion

This is an outstanding offering that provides a variety of color schemes for the venerable SLUF. Highly recommended!