1:32 F-35C Lightning II late cockpit (Basic edition with 3D decals) for Trumpeter kit

The F-35C cockpit for the Trumpeter kit, 1:32 scale

An add-on cockpit set of the late version for the carrier-based F-35C Lightning II in 1:32 scale, completed with 3D decals for the instrument areas. According to the name it is intended for the Trumpeter kit, and it is the basic version of the set.

The real subject

The F-35C is the variant of the Lightning II adapted for operation from aircraft carriers. It differs from the land-based version in its greater wing area with folding wingtips, strengthened landing gear and an arrestor hook. One large touchscreen display fills the cabin instead of a classic array of dials, so the interior looks unlike that of older fighters and it shows at once with the cockpit open.

What the set contains

The cockpit parts and a sheet of 3D decals that carry color panels and display areas with a raised relief. The exact make-up of the set, that is the number of parts and the extent of the sheet, is given by the manufacturer in the instructions.

Building tips

• The parts are not polystyrene and are glued with cyanoacrylate glue; wash and degrease them before gluing.
• Cut away any excess material with a sharp blade a little away from the part and sand what is left.
• Before applying them, check the instructions to see whether the decals are self-adhesive; the application method differs from one line to another and the instructions for the set state it.
• Try the cockpit tub dry in one fuselage half before you glue the fuselage together for good.
• Finish the cabin and close it up only once every part is in place; nothing can be corrected inside afterwards.

Who it is for

For the modeler who wants a convincing cabin in a large scale even with the canopy open. This is an add-on to the kit, not the kit itself.

The kit, paints and glue are not supplied, unless stated otherwise.