Kinetic 48108 - 1:48 F-16A Belgian Air Force Tiger Meet 2009

Plastic model kit of the F-16A MLU fighter in 1:48 scale

Kinetic 48108 is a self-assembly kit reproducing the F-16A fighter after its MLU (Mid-Life Update) upgrade, in Belgian Air Force markings. This Kinetic Gold release focuses on the striking commemorative scheme prepared by the 31st Squadron for the annual NATO Tiger Meet 2009.

The model features a detailed cockpit, a photo-etched fret and a turned metal Pitot probe, which provides a sharpness of detail unavailable in a plastic moulding. Decals designed by the DACO studio and printed by Cartograf allow the characteristic tiger stripes to be reproduced faithfully.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with the airframe parts
• Clear parts (canopy)
• Photo-etched fret
• Turned metal Pitot probe
• Set of underwing ordnance and fuel tanks
• Waterslide decal sheet designed by DACO (printed by Cartograf)
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:48
• Catalogue number: 48108
• Manufacturer: Kinetic
• Assembled length: approx. 313 mm, wingspan: approx. 197 mm
• Difficulty level: intermediate

Note: This kit does not include glue, paint or modelling tools. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Building the model:

The model is aimed at modellers with some experience — working with photo-etched parts and the multi-part cockpit calls for care. It is worth painting the cockpit and the wheel bays before closing up the sub-assemblies.

The distinctive Tiger Meet 2009 scheme is based on the aircraft's grey finish supplemented by extensive tiger stripes from the decal sheet. It is best to apply them over a gloss coat to avoid silvering, then protect the finish with a satin varnish. The metal Pitot probe is fitted last, after painting is complete.

Required tools:

• Modelling nippers for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper for cleaning up sprue-gate marks
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Brushes in various sizes
• Modelling paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Modelling wash to emphasise details and recesses

About the aircraft – F-16A MLU:

The F-16A MLU is a thoroughly modernised version of the early European F-16A/B, created under a joint programme of Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark and Norway. The Mid-Life Update included a new cockpit, upgraded avionics close to the Block 50/52 standard and the ability to carry radar-guided missiles, significantly extending the service life of these aircraft.

The Belgian F-16A serial FA-87 of the 31st Squadron, based at Kleine Brogel, received a commemorative scheme for the NATO Tiger Meet 2009 — an annual gathering of squadrons whose emblem is a tiger, famous for its spectacular special schemes.

Original specifications (F-16A MLU):

• Length: 15.03 m
• Wingspan: 9.45 m
• Height: 4.88 m
• Powerplant: Pratt & Whitney F100 turbofan
• Maximum speed: approx. 2120 km/h (Mach 2)
• Built-in armament: 20 mm M61 Vulcan cannon
• Crew: 1 pilot

About the manufacturer – Kinetic:

Kinetic Model Kits is a brand founded in 2007, specialising in plastic model kits of aircraft and military vehicles, mainly in 1:48 and 1:32 scale. The company earned a strong following thanks to comprehensive kits of modern jets, including numerous F-16, F/A-18 and Mirage versions. Kinetic kits stand out for their extensive underwing ordnance and the many build options that allow different operators to be reproduced. The brand works with respected decal studios, including DACO and Cartograf, which is reflected in the quality of its markings. Kinetic is today one of the more active manufacturers of modern military aviation kits.