TwoBobs Aviation Graphics

1/72 & 1/48 Press to Test Gripens

Sheet Number: 72-078 and 48-177

Reviewed by   Phil Pignataro, IPMS# 17254

MSRP: $12.00 Web Site: www.twobobs.net This sheet is part of a growing number of decals covering non-U.S. military subjects from the folks at TwoBobs. While my comments refer to the 1/72 decal sheet, the 1/48 sheet is exactly the same apart from scale. The JAS-39, Gripen, is Sweden's latest fighter and is a sleek successor to their SAAB JA-37, Viggen. These decals provide markings for four different aircraft: two single-seaters and two dual-seaters. All are test vehicles, rather than operational fighters. Since the Gripen's basic camouflage scheme is two shades of gray with toned down gray markings, these decals add darker gray logos to the vertical stabilizer in the form of stylized Griffins. The exception is one dual-cockpit aircraft with gold markings on its Oxford blue spine and tail. This particular aircraft is leased to the UK's Empire Test Pilot School twice a year for the purpose of exposing its students to modern, fast-jet flying. For this more colorful scheme, TwoBobs provides two sets of gold logos and lettering to place on top of each other for "maximum opacity." This is another example of the well thought out decals they produce. As always, the instruction sheet is in full color with decal placement clearly indicated and lots of small photos for additional reference. Camouflage colors are matched to "FS" numbers, as well as Gunze Sangyo, Testors, Humbrol, and Xtracrylics paints, though the undersurface color has no equivalent hobby paint. A little creative mixing will be needed to match the color chip. In the past, I've had excellent results with setting solutions, lack of silvering, and opacity with TwoBobs' decals and expect these sheets would perform just as well. I would highly recommend these decals to dress up your Gripen. This aircraft is now in service with air forces from Hungary, South Africa, the Czech Republic, and shortly with Thailand. Hopefully, TwoBobs will look at these for future releases. I found very helpful photo references on line at www.airliners.net and in Volume 24 of International Air Power Review. My thanks go to TwoBobs and IPMS/USA for the review sample

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