Featuring the Spitfire Mk. IXe #26 of the 101st IAF squadron, from the Tamiya kit 1/32 scale
By Michael Mass
The 1/32 Spitfire Mk. IXe No. 26 project from the 101st IAF squadron has finally been completed. The Pitot tube was added after the photos were taken. The base kit is the excellent Tamiya #60319, which includes magnets for removable upper and side engine fairings. The conversion to the Mk. IXe version involved replacing the main guns and the upper and lower service covers for the outboard 20mm guns.
The following aftermarket kits and materials were used:
1. Master-Model kit No. AM-32-020**: Includes brass Hispano 20mm cannon and .50 cal fairings. High quality! Highly recommended!
2. AMLA kit No. 32 003**: Resin conversion covers for converting the wings to the 'e' version. There are 24 parts of good quality, most of which replace the Tamiya kit's parts. Highly recommended!
3. Isradecal kit for IAF Spitfires (Set IAF-91)**: This kit includes numerous decal sheets and options, along with a high-quality leaflet featuring 26 color profiles. The decals are very thin and of high quality. Highly recommended!
4. Eduard 4-spoke resin wheels**: Smooth tires with sagging effect. Highly recommended! They replace Tamiya’s sticky rubber tires, which tend to accumulate particles.
5. Cockpit detailing kits**: Though used, they proved unnecessary since nothing is visible after the fuselage halves were glued together. Enjoyable? Yes! Necessary? No!
6. AK Interactive pencils**: Used dry for many weathering effects, such as soft panel lines and wear marks. The colors used are shown in one of the photos. They are easy to use and erase.
7. AK Interactive WWII RAF colors (3G series)**: Includes upper dark green (AK11840), RAF Ocean Grey (AK11842), and RAF Medium Sea Grey (AK11843) for the lower surfaces.
Not Used:
- The Tamiya-supplied canopy masking (not pre-cut).
- The Tamiya kit’s data decal stencils, as they are too thick and would require sanding.
- The cockpit sides, wheels, and pilot seat, as replacements were used.
Conclusion:
Based on photos of the 101st squadron's Spitfires (in black and white), the aircraft appear more weathered than my model, but I’m satisfied with the results at this point. It was an enjoyable project, made easier by the high-quality base kit, conversion and upgrade kits, paints, and weathering materials. All are highly recommended.
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