Always nice to see a new set of decals and this is from a company in North Carolina called MAW Decals. I can assume that we will be seeing some Marine Corps stuff from these folks as their first release consists of three F-18Ds; two of them squadron commander's planes. Though no kit is specified, most of you will be using the Hasegawa F-18D for this one. It is in the standard scheme of FS 36320 uppers and FS 36375 undersides.

First up is the squadron CO's plane from VMFA-224 'Bengals' in April 2004. This aircraft has the black fin and orange rudders. The vents on the nose section should be filled in and the supplied decal used. This aircraft also needs the IFF antennas added to in front of the windscreen.

Next is from VMFA-121 'The Green Knights' in October 2004. This one is also the CO's plane and has a black fin on both sides. Modifications needed as per the previous aircraft.

Finally, a line bird from VMFA-533 'The Hawks in January 2004. This aircraft has the recce nose and I really don't know where to get that, though I'm sure some aftermarket company does that unless one is included with the kit.

Instructions are very well done and in full color. An addendum page is provided that gives twelve different load-outs. Decals are very nicely printed, though the full color insignia seem a bit too fat and too short to me, but this may well be the way they are on the plane. I also noted that the small red/white and black/white stencils seemed a bit off register, but should be easy to fix with a bit of a trim.

Overall a fine sheet and my thanks to MAW Decals for the review sample. You can get yours direct from the link above. Free shipping in US. International orders e-mail them at mawdecals@vfdecals.com for rates.

April 2006

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