This is the first sheet covering the use of the Mirage F.1 by non-French operators. The plane was a very popular export aircraft (as much because the French will sell to anyone without restrictions), and is still being used as front-line equipment by many of them. For kits, the only real option is the Italeri/ESCI versions. The best kit to get is the Italeri reissue as they have included an update sprue.

There are no fewer than 10 options covering 4 nations:

Spain:  Two F.1CEs in overall Light Grey  with one a more 'low viz' than the other. One F.1EDA in a three color desert scheme for ground attack. These latter planes were purchased from Quatar.

South Africa: There are four options. Three of them are in the tri-color scheme with one in a set of greys. Two have the old insignia and those are an F.1CZ from 3 Sq, and an F.1AZ from 1 Squadron. The low viz grey version is an F.1CZ in the new insignia that it wore prior to retirement. The fourth  is an F.1 AZ, also in the new insignia with the camo demarcation line very high.

Greece: One F.1CG in the standard air superiority blue over silver

Ecuador: Two F.1JA's in Olive Drab/Olive Green over Light Grey. These were involved in the destruction of two Peruvian Su-22s during one of the many border wars.

The sheet provides enough markings to do one full aircraft from each nation and two from Spain and South Africa if you choose wisely. Unit badges are provided in highly detailed decals and the white background is provided so that they will not disappear against the camouflage!

A superb sheet and one that I know will do well.

June 2006

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