RAAF Kingfisher Flying Boat Decals, 1/32 Red Roo Models

[Julien]

RAAF Kingfisher Flying Boat Decals
1:32 Red Roo Models

During WWII The RAAF received a batch of 18 Vought OS2U Kingfishers which were originally destined for the Dutch East Indies. The RAAF took these on charge in 1942, while initially used as training aircraft for pilots destined for flying boats in 1943 they were used to equip No. 107 Squadron RAAF. Here they were used for convoy escort duties until the Sqn disbanded in October 1945. Post war one Kingfisher was used in support of the Australian National Antarctic Research Expedition in 194748

The Decals
If at first you think there is something wrong with these decals but you can't put your finger on it; it is because of the "reversed" appearance of the decals and apparent pale colours. These decals are done with a direct deposition printer using an interesting technique where the colours are printed in the reverse order to normal screen print decals, with the whites last, followed by the glue. So instead of "sliding" the decal on, you "slap" it on! There is no problem with moving them around. A separate sheet of whites is provided for backing all the decals if needed. An interesting addition to the decal sheet is a small envelope with two small 3mm clear discs in it. RAAF kingfishers were delivered with the gunsight telescope which went through the front screen. These were removed in service and the hole plugged. The instruction have you fill the hole in the screen with crystal clear (or similar)and then use the discs over this. Now if that is not attention to detail I don't know what is!

Decals are produced for four aircraft;

• A48-4 No.3 Operational Training Unit, Rathmines NSW 1942. RAAF Seaplane Scheme Extra Dark Sea Grey & Dark Slate Grey.
• A48-17 No. 107 Sqn, Rathmines, Rathmines NSW 1943. Extra Dark Sea Grey & Dark Slate Grey uppers over Sky Blue.
• A48-5 No. 107 Sqn, Sussex Inlet 1945. Aircraft stripped back to bare Metal with fabric areas in Aluminium Dope.
• A48-13 RAAF Antarctic Flight, HMAS Wyatt Earp* 1948 - Overall Trainer Yellow.

*Yes the Australian Navy really did have a Ship named the "Wyatt Earp"!


Conclusion
The service of these Flying boats is only a small part of the RAAF in WWII and after but still worthy of note. With sets like these the modeller has a chance to build one of these aircraft. Recommended.

Review sample courtesy of