Modellers’ fascination with the Messerschmitt Bf 109G shows no sign of ever running dry - and with major new-tool releases in both 1:32 and 1:48 this year, we do look set up for quality builds of this iconic fighter for years to come.

While the “Gustav” in Luftwaffe hands offers a plethora of exciting colour schemes, prepare to see things get really wild when you consider the spectacular paint jobs applied to some of the captured examples by the advancing Allies - particularly at unit level.

New decal producer Delta One looks set to score a real hit among ‘109 fans with one their initial releases - “American G-6s”. Available in 1:72, 1:48 and 1:32, the decals offer no less than 9 colour schemes, including some that I find irresistibly outrageous!

But, before looking at the featured machines, let’s examine the decals themselves. The sample sets are beautiful quality that look to rival the best products of established producers. The items are thin and glossy, and printed with pin-sharp registration on the sheets provided. The carrier film is trimmed very close around national insignia, and where it does extend further on items such as numerals it is crystal clear and promises to snuggle down very well.

The colour schemes covered are:
1. Bf 109G-6/Trop, W.Nr. unknown. Ex- “Yellow 16” of 9./JG77, captured in Tunisia. Now painted black overall with red trim and nicknamed “Hoimann” (for Hermann Goering).
2. Bf 109G-6/Trop, W.Nr. 16416, found in Sicily. Ex- “White 9” of 4./JG77, it was shipped to the US and painted Olive Drab overall and used extensively for tests.
3. Bf 109G-6/Trop, W.Nr. 18098. An ex- Regia Aeronautica machine of 154 Squadriglia, 3⁰ GR. A.C.T., it retains standard Luftwaffe camouflage, with added red trim and large US stars.
4. Bf 109G-6/Trop, W.Nr. 18098. The same machine as above, now refinished in overall Sand.
5. Bf 109G-6/Trop, W.Nr. 18096 (or 18059). Another ex- 154 Squadriglia, 3⁰ GR. A.C.T, with red trim applied over its standard camouflage.
6. Bf 109G-6/Trop, W.Nr. unknown. Possibly originally either “Yellow 7” or “Black 4”, it is now totally repainted Olive Drab with red spinner and wing-tips, and a large 65th FS crest under the cockpit.
7. Bf 109G-6/Trop, W.Nr. and former identity unknown. Now painted overall Sand with red trim.
8. Bf 109G-6/Trop, W.Nr. 15270. Ex-”Yellow14” of 6./JG53, it retains its former camouflage and Pik As badge, but now sports prominent red wing and fuselage bands, plus red wingtips and spinner.
9. Bf 109G-6/R3, W.Nr. 160756. Ex- “Yellow 4” of 3./JG4, it was shipped to the US and stripped back to bare metal, with spurious Luftwaffe-style markings added at some point.

Delta One's website is still currently under construction, but you can order their decals direct through the following e-mail address:

[email protected]

Prices for the American Gustavs are very reasonable for so many colour schemes:

1:32 - £8.50
1:48 - £8.00
1:72 - £7.00

conclusion

It's always exciting to see a new aftermarket producer appear, and Delta One have hit the ground running with a really well chosen twist on a perennially popular subject. It's certainly got me busy planning some future builds. Recommended for all '109 enthusiasts looking to build a Gustav with a difference.

Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE.