1:32 TORNADO ECR - interior 3D decals for Revell kit

A specialist in hunting radars

The ECR version differs from the strike Tornados in its task: it is to knock out the enemy air defenses. The Luftwaffe introduced it in 1990, the Italian Air Force somewhat later. An emitter location system was added to the airframe, which shows the crew the position of a radar station at work, and anti-radiation HARM missiles became the main armament. The gun armament, by contrast, gave way to intelligence and imaging equipment, so this machine fights with electronics rather than with fire.

A layered print against etched metal

Metal offers sharp outlines, openings and the possibility of bending a part to a right angle, but the color and the lettering have to be created by the modeler's own hand. Here the balance of forces is the other way round: the shades, the scales and the warning placards are printed in advance and in exact register, while the strength and the ability to stand without support are missing. The two technologies therefore often complement each other in one cockpit, each in a different place.

The limits of relief

The raised height reaches a fraction of a millimeter, which is enough for an impression of depth when seen through the canopy, but not for deeply recessed niches. The cut of the sheets matches particular plastic parts; with a different kit the outline will have to be adjusted. Special attention is called for by the rounded sides of the tub, where the film has to be settled with a softener in small sections.

Before you start

Rid the surface of grease, go over the molded detail with fine abrasive paper and work in good light.

Let the finished assembly dry overnight, and only then glue the canopy into place.