As the name implies, this sheet is a mixture of Marine Hornets from early A models to the D variant. All are in the standard camo scheme of FS 36320 over 36375. There are enough basic stencils and insignia for all five options to be built from this sheet. Kits are Hasegawa for all variants and Academy for the F-18C, though I'm sure they will be doing others as time goes on. As some of these cannot be built straight fro the box, there is a list of aftermarket bits provided, though it does appear that no one yet does a nose with the new style IFF antenna so that will have to be scratch built. All MAW sheets provide a detailed load-out diagram and this one is no exception.

The sheet itself is superbly printed by Cartograf.

Now on to what's provided.

First is an F-18A from VMFA-333, a unit no longer with us. This is an early A model without the LEX fence, though oddly, it does seem to have the reinforced tail (which I thought was added with the LEX fence, but I guess not).

Next, from VMFA-232 is this boss bird from their 2007 cruise aboard the Nimitz. This has the old seat, new blade antenna, GPS dome, and new IFF antennas.

From VMFA-312 is this aircraft that is also from 2007. Same configuration as above.

The only F-18C on the sheet is from VMFA-251 in 2003. This has the same configuration of antennas as above and has the later SJU-17 seat that is the norm for later Hornets. It also sports a false canopy.

The last aircraft is an F-18D from VMFA-332, also with the later configuration of antennas. It, as well as the above plane, has a later style center pylon and screen style vents. others have a tan tip to the radome.

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, see their web site for rates.

August 2008

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and fairly quickly, please contact the editor or see other details in the Note to Contributors.