The Thunderbolt never went on to enjoy a long Post War USAAF/USAF career to the same extent as the Mustang; something that’s always seemed puzzling as many commentators have noted that it would have been better suited to the fighting in the Korean War. But the P-47 did see service with a number of Air National Guard units, and it is to these that Iliad have turned for their latest 1:48 decals, offering a trio of “Jugs” that make a very attractive change from the usual WW2 subjects.
The decals themselves are quite superbly printed, being beautifully thin and glossy, with perfect registration on the sample sheet. The colours look very accurate and appear nicely opaque on the sheet.
The subjects covered are:
1. P-47N, s/n 489337, 198th FS, Puerto Rico Air National Guard, 1947
2. P-47N, s/n 488854, 199th FS, Hawaii Air National Guard, 1947
3. P-47D, s/n 433851, 104th FS, Maryland Air National Guard, 1946
Iliad provide high quality instructions, printed in full colour on both sides of an A-4 sheet. Very good profile artwork is backed up by smaller plan views, and there are even photos of some of the decals in place on Revell’s P-47N to aid positioning. There are useful explanatory notes describing each scheme and any unusual points - e.g. the remnants of previous markings (which are also supplied on the sheet).
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a spectacular and unusual P-47 that’s sure to raise a few questions at shows and club meetings, these ANG schemes could be just the ticket, as the ‘Ns both sport really flamboyant unit insignia. Highly recommended.
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SUMMARY
Highs: Attractive and unusual subjects. Superb quality decals. Excellent instructions.Lows: None that I've noted.Verdict: This is a great set of decals for anyone looking to build a Jug that'll stand out from the crowd of usual schemes.
Our Thanks to Iliad Design! This item was provided by them for the purpose of having it reviewed on this KitMaker Network site. If you would like your kit, book, or product reviewed, please contact us.
About Rowan Baylis (Merlin) FROM: NO REGIONAL SELECTED, UNITED KINGDOM
I've been modelling for about 40 years, on and off. While I'm happy to build anything, my interests lie primarily in 1/48 scale aircraft. I mostly concentrate on WW2 subjects, although I'm also interested in WW1, Golden Age aviation and the early Jet Age - and have even been known to build the occas...
Rowan,
Thanks for the review. I haven't given much thought to after war Jugs especially the Ns. I've got a small collection of 1/48 scale Jugs waiting to be built, and may just opt for these decals for an N when I build one. They do look rather nice.
The generally accepted reason why the P-47 wasn't used for the Korean conflict was that there just wasn't enough available aircraft. Always sounded somewhat strange, but that's the official line.
Joel
Thanks for the review, Rowan. I especially like the Hawaii bird. Will have a look on next expos around Germany and Switzerland for them, though I have already tons of decals for the P-47. But how does Damian always say "You can't have too many Jugs!"
When it comes to the kit of the N-version, I would always prefer the Academy kit over the Revell kit.
Torsten
Hi Torsten
I agree in terms of general moulding "crispness", but I think Revell captured the line of ailerons better - if I remember rightly, Academy's kit needed a re-scribe (according to my refs, at least).
All the best
Rowan
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