1:72 de Havilland Mosquito PR Mk.VIII/IX/XVI/34, Pt.1

DK Decals 1:72 Mosquito PR Mk.VIII/IX/XVI/34, part one

A decal sheet for models of reconnaissance Mosquitoes in 1:72 scale from the Czech brand DK Decals. This is not a kit but a set of decals for a model you already have. This is part one of a two-part series devoted to the late reconnaissance versions: the PR Mk.VIII, PR Mk.IX, PR Mk.XVI and the long-range PR Mk.34. Part two covers further machines and, on top of that, the high-altitude PR Mk.32.

The real subject

The late reconnaissance Mosquitoes came from the bomber versions and pushed the type higher and further. The PR Mk.VIII was an interim solution: five machines converted from B Mk.IVs were the first Mosquitoes to receive two-stage supercharged Merlin 61 engines, and the first of them flew on October 20, 1942. The PR Mk.IX came about on the basis of the B Mk.IX bomber and about ninety were built. The main reconnaissance version became the PR Mk.XVI with a pressurized cabin, of which 435 machines were built. The series is closed by the long-range PR Mk.34 with 181 aircraft built, which reached even the most distant targets thanks to its huge fuel load. On the sheet you will find machines of British reconnaissance squadrons across these versions.

Usage tips

Apply the decals over a gloss surface, cut them out tight to the artwork and settle them with a decal softener. The blue reconnaissance camouflage tends to be smooth and glossier, so it deserves a careful patina. Once the decals are dry, give the whole a coat of semi-gloss varnish.

Who the set is for

• For modelers who already have a Mosquito model in 1:72.
• For anyone interested in high-altitude and long-range photographic reconnaissance.
• For collectors who want both parts of the series.

This is a separate decal sheet. The kit, paints and varnish are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.