Military Model Scene

Title: F-35 Lightning II
Author: Ben Skipper
Publisher: Pen & Sword
ISBN: 978-1-03612-193-8

Number 33 in the excellent FlightCraft series from Pen & Sword, and another by author Ben Skipper. A 96-page soft-cover book.
The first 46-pages are devoted to the story of the real thing, this 5th generation fighter. With the story of the design and development of this Lockheed Martin aircraft, a design of some 20 years in the making. With 3 variations, the F-35A, F-35B and F-35C, they are all slightly different. The A series are for conventional take-off and landing; the B series are for short take-off and vertical landing; while the C series is for carrier operations with a catapult take-off and arrested landing. In addition to the development story, including looking back at earlier vertical take-off types such as the Harrier, along with Russian, French and German projects which were all short lived. There are details of key technical systems as well as the power unit and then the service story so far, with multiple nations. This is all followed by 8 pages of colour profile artworks with varied marking schemes, though very little variation from the overall grey colours. That in turn is followed by 17 well illustrated pages covering the assorted kits in different scales from different manufacturers as well as some aftermarket detail accessories you might like. Then there is a section of 6-pages of photos from the aircraft production lines which have lots of display ideas for modellers, and even some showing the real size markings being applied to the airframes, so the modellers work does mirror reality in more ways than one! This leaves the final19-pages to showcase 2 beautifully finished 1/48 model which deserve to inspire many readers.
The FlightCraft series is aimed fair and square at modellers and once again this is right on the mark. The F-35 hasn't always attracted popular feedback but it has proved to be a successful product which is in service around the world, including of course our own Royal Navy and Royal Air Force among them. Another fine addition to the series and another super title in the series from our friend, Ben Skipper. For modellers everywhere, recommended.
Thanks to Pen & Sword for the review copy.

Robin