Great Wall Hobby S4821 - 1:48 F-16DU+ Republic Singapore AF USAF-RSAF 30 Years Partnership Anniversary Scheme 2023

Republic of Singapore Air Force F-16D Block 52+ fighter aircraft plastic model kit in 1:48 scale

Great Wall Hobby S4821 is a limited edition kit of the two-seat F-16 in the configuration operated by the Republic of Singapore Air Force, supplied with decals for the commemorative scheme marking thirty years of the USAF–RSAF partnership. The "DU+" designation used on the box refers to the upgraded two-seat Block 52+ aircraft — a machine that has passed through the modernisation programme carried out jointly by Lockheed Martin and ST Engineering Aerospace, fitted with the AN/APG-83 SABR active array radar, the JHMCS helmet-mounted cueing system and new avionics.

The kit uses the new F-16 tooling family developed by Great Wall Hobby, supplemented with parts specific to the two-seat version. The most distinctive feature of the aircraft represented is the enlarged dorsal spine running from the cockpit to the fin, housing additional electronic equipment. Catalogue numbers with the S prefix indicate a special, limited release from this manufacturer.

What's in the box:

• Injection-moulded plastic sprues
• Clear sprue (canopy and transparencies)
• Decal sheet for the commemorative anniversary markings
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Specifications:

• Scale: 1:48
• Catalogue number: S4821
• Manufacturer: Great Wall Hobby
• Version: two-seat F-16D Block 52+ (Republic of Singapore Air Force)
• Finished model length: approx. 313 mm
• Wingspan: approx. 208 mm
• Release: limited edition (S series)
• Skill level: intermediate/advanced

Please note: this kit does not include glue, paints or modelling tools. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Building the model:

A two-seat version means two cockpits to build and paint — the area that deserves the most attention, since it remains fully visible under the large one-piece canopy. Assembling and painting the cockpits, seats and instrument panels before closing the fuselage is advisable. Fitting the enlarged dorsal spine calls for careful edge alignment to avoid a visible gap along the joint with the fuselage.

RSAF aircraft wear the standard F-16 low-visibility scheme in two grey tones. The centrepiece of this release, however, is the commemorative fin marking, for which exact colours and placement are given in the instructions. Because anniversary schemes rely on large, high-contrast decals, applying them over a gloss coat and using setting solutions is recommended — this reduces the risk of silvering and helps large markings conform to the curvature of the fin. A satin finish suits an aircraft prepared for a ceremonial occasion, without heavy weathering.

Tools you will need:

• Modelling sprue cutters
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper for cleaning up sprue gate marks
• Polystyrene cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Precision modelling tweezers
• Airbrush or brushes in a range of sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel) in FS grey tones
• Gloss varnish for decal application and satin varnish for the final coat
• Decal setting and softening solutions for the large markings
• A modelling wash to emphasise the panel lines

About the aircraft – F-16D Block 52+ in Republic of Singapore Air Force service:

Singapore is among the longest-standing and most intensive F-16 operators in Southeast Asia. The first A/B model aircraft reached the Republic of Singapore Air Force back in the 1980s under the Peace Carvin programme, with later batches — already to Block 52 and 52+ standard — delivered from the late 1990s into the early 2000s. A distinctive feature of the Singaporean fleet is the high proportion of two-seat aircraft, used not only for training but also as fully capable combat machines.

Two-seat Block 52+ aircraft are distinguished by the enlarged dorsal spine housing additional electronic equipment, including electronic warfare systems. They are powered by the Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229. Under the upgrade programme initiated by a 2015 contract and carried out jointly by Lockheed Martin and ST Engineering Aerospace, Singapore's F-16s received the AN/APG-83 SABR active array radar, the JHMCS helmet-mounted cueing system, a new avionics architecture and the ability to carry the latest generation of precision weapons. The upgraded aircraft are expected to remain in service at least into the mid-2030s.

A significant part of Singaporean aircrew training takes place in the United States. The RSAF detachment at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, operating within the 425th Fighter Squadron "Peace Carvin II", is the longest-running foreign training unit at that base. From 25 to 28 April 2023 the thirtieth anniversary of this cooperation, established in 1993, was celebrated. To mark the occasion two Singaporean F-16s received commemorative tail markings prepared by a team from the 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron.

Original aircraft specifications (F-16D Block 52+):

• Length: approx. 15.03 m
• Wingspan: approx. 9.96 m
• Height: approx. 5.09 m
• Crew: 2
• Powerplant: Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 rated at approx. 129 kN with afterburner
• Maximum speed: approx. Mach 2 at altitude
• Service ceiling: over 15,000 m
• Ferry range: over 3,200 km
• Internal gun: M61A1 20 mm cannon
• Hardpoints: 9
• Post-upgrade equipment: AN/APG-83 SABR radar, JHMCS helmet-mounted cueing system
• Distinctive feature of the two-seat Block 52+: enlarged dorsal spine

About the manufacturer – Great Wall Hobby:

Great Wall Hobby is a Chinese model manufacturer active since the late 2000s, originating from the circle associated with the modelling accessory maker Lion Roar. The company specialises in aircraft kits in 1:48 and 1:72 scale, with particular emphasis on modern combat aircraft and Second World War types. Its kits are characterised by finely engraved panel lines, well-appointed cockpits, included photo-etched frets and a broad selection of external stores and pods. Catalogue numbers with the L prefix indicate standard releases, while the S prefix is reserved for special and limited editions, usually carrying commemorative decal sheets. Great Wall Hobby consistently develops its tooling families by releasing successive versions of the same aircraft, allowing modellers interested in a particular type to build a coherent collection of its variants.