With the release of Hasegawa's 1:48 F-22A, the modelling world looks set for a serious outbreak of Raptor fever. The only factor that may prevent an early pandemic is Hasegawa's decision to release the kit initially in a striking pink colour scheme with decals based on the Idolmaster computer game. Platz have come to the rescue of modellers tormented by the prospect of the new kit, but unable to bear the colour scheme or wait until the spring for the standard version.
Platz's perfectly timed release contains markings for two USAF Raptors:
1. F-22A-30, 05-4101, 1st Fighter Wing, Langley AFB, VA
2. F-22A-20, 04-4078, 94th Fighter Sqn., Langley AFB, VA
Each is provided with full national and unit markings, along with stencils, and what appears to be a banner for a boarding ladder or servicing trestle.
As so often with Platz, they have a twist up their sleeve aimed at their domestic market. In this case it's a comprehensive set of squadron emblems, serial numbers and hinomarus for a potential JASDF version of the F-22. Badges are included for no less than 13 units and, what's more, they are given in both standard and low-visibility versions.
The decals are custom-printed by Cartograf and are superb quality. The registration is perfect and the glossy items are very thin, with good colour density and have minimal carrier film.
There's a 2-sided A-5 sheet of instructions, with colour painting and decal placement guides. The text is mostly in Japanese, but there's enough English translation of the notes to make things perfectly straightforward for overseas modellers.
While obviously designed to coincide with Hasegawa's new kit, the decals will be equally suitable for the existing Raptor kits on the market.
Conclusion
Platz's F-22-A decals are the perfect answer for anyone unable to resist Hasegawa's stunning-looking new Raptor, but who doesn't want to have Haruka Amami emblazoned all over it. Recommended.
Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE.
SUMMARY
Highs: Superbly printed Cartograf decals for 2 x real-life Raptors, plus unit markings and serials for potential JASDF aircraft.Lows:Verdict: Suitable for any quarterscale Raptor kit, Platz's F-22A decals are specifically an excellent alternative to Hasegawa's Idolmaster colour scheme.
Our Thanks to Platz! 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...
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