Scale Nutz 1/72 & 1/48 RSAF F-16s

Reviewed by Chris Banyai-Riepl

One of the first silk-screened decals from Scale Nutz covers Singapore F-16s. There are actually two sheets available for RSAF F-16C/Ds, one called 'Fighting Osprey' and the other called 'Night Phoenix.' The basic decals are the same between the two sheets, with the only difference being with the unit markings.

The first sheet, the F-16C/D Fighting Osprey, provides markings for aircraft from 140 Squadron, the first fighter squadron of the RSAF. Originally flying Hawker Hunters, they upgraded to the F-16 in 1988. In 1997, the unit received their current F-16C/D aircraft. These F-16s are finished in the typical F-16 camouflage, and the markings consist of national insignia in either black or gray, and tail markings with the unit emblem and a band of checkers, either black on gray or black on red, along the tip. In addition to these, the decal sheet comes with a complete set of stenciling, a detail that will really make your model look accurate. A complete set of serial numbers is included, allowing the modeler to pick and choose which specific aircraft they want to display.

The second sheet on the F-16C/D Night Phoenix, is similar to the sheet above except that it provides markings for 143 Squadron. Originally flying the A-4S Skyhawk, the unit was actually disbanded in 1997. In 2000 the unit came back 'like a mythical phoenix' and now flies the F-16C/D out of Tengah Airbase. Since the unit rose like a phoenix, of course this is what is on the tail. Also present are the checks, either black on gray or black on yellow. Like the earlier sheet, a choice of black or gray markings is provided, and a complete set of serial numbers and stenciling round out the sheet.

These are very well done decals, with excellent register. They feel quite thin and should pose no problems in application. I am looking forward to trying these out on a Revell 1/72 F-16 in the near future, as the quality of decal combined with the interesting subject makes for a winner in my book. My thanks to Scale Nutz for the review samples.