RAAF F-4E Phantom

Aussie Decals

Reviewed by Brett Green

Australia ordered a fleet of F-111s in 1963 to replace its obsolescent Canberra bombers. This new type was due to be delivered in 1967. Delays were introduced by Australian requirements for a hybrid type specific to the RAAF - the F-111C. By the end of the decade Australia's Canberras were well past their practical service life but more delays occured after eleven crashes of the new F-111. By 1969-70, it was clear that an interim type was required. The RAAF therefore leased 24 F-4E Phantoms. that remained in RAAF service for a little over two years while the structural problems of the trouble-plagued F-111s were corrected.

Although all the F-4Es were from the same production block, they displayed fairly diverse interpretation of SEA colours and camouflage patterns. The aircraft also varied from quite clean to heavily weathered. A few different sizes and styles of markings were also carried.

Aussie Decals has produced a set of markings that should permit many of the RAAF F-4E Phantoms to be depicted. The small decal sheet includes four Roo Roundels (two each in 18" and 16" styles), US-style serial numbers and "last two" numbers for the tail in white block numbers. Specific serials are suppled for five aircraft, but individual numbers will permit depiction of others too. The only limiting factor is the style of tail number used on your preferred Aussie Phantom subject.

Instructions are supplied on a single-sided, black and white sheet. Three view drawings of one aircraft are supplied, but further reference will be required to determine the exact pattern and level of weathering for other aircraft. The instructions recommend (and I would endorse) Stuart Wilson's "Phantom, Hornet and Skyhawk in Australian Service".

Aussie Decals' RAAF Phantom sheet will be a nice way to give your SEA finished F-4E a different look.

Recommended.

Thanks to Peter from Aussie Decals for the review sample.

Aussie Decals are available at hobby shops and retailers including Snowy Mountains Models

Review Copyright © 2002 by Brett Green
This Page Created on 22 October, 2002
Last updated 14 August, 2004

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