Caracal Models 1/72 KC-135R Stratotanker Decal First Look
By Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | June 2015 | Manufacturer | Caracal Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | KC-135R Stratotanker | Scale | 1/72 |
| Set Number | 72030 | Pros | Outstanding selection of subjects |
| Cons | Sold out immediately | Skill Level | Basic |
| MSRP (USD) | $20.00 |
First Look
Here is the latest release from Caracal Models providing sixteen different markings options for the AMT => Italeri 1/72 KC-135R Stratotanker kit. This set is really a superset of markings as you'll see below. The KC-135R has worn a variety of colors (all of them AMC Gray FS 36173) but they've been distinguised by some very nice markings. Let's take a look:
The aircraft presented in this set include:
- KC-135R, 62-3516, 161 ARW/AZ ANG, 2013
- KC-135R, 62-3576, 157 ARW/NH ANG, 2010
- KC-135R, 63-8872, 101 ARW/ME ANG, 2013
- KC-135R, 61-0305, 97 AMW/AETC, Altus AFB, 2013
- KC-135R, 61-4840, 121 ARW/OH ANG, 2012
- KC-135R, 62-3543, 459 ARW/AFRC, Andrews AFB, 2012
- KC-135R, 58-0001, 100 ARW/USAFE, RAF Mildenhall, 2013
- KC-135R, 58-0102, 434 ARW/AFRC, Grisson AFB, 2005
- KC-135T, 58-0065, 22 ARW/AFRC, McConnell AFB, 2011
- KC-135R, 60-0345, 127 Wing/MI ANG, 2012
- KC-135R, 60-0318, 154 Wing/HI ANG, 2013
- KC-135R, 59-1506, 185 ARW/IA ANG, 2013
- KC-135R, 59-1500, 126 ARW/IL ANG, 2011
- KC-135R, 60-0348, 18 Wing/PACAF, Kadena AB, 2014
- KC-135R, 62-3512, 128 ARW/WI ANG, 2013
- KC-135R, 62-3514, 108 ARW/NJ ANG, 2013
This set includes all of the relevant airframe markings and even includes a set of airframe stencils and the underside command lights and alignment stripes. It just so happens that I have a KC-135R kit as well as a few other C-135 variants in kit form. Perhaps Caracal Models will release that stencil set separately? (hint hint).
I think this is the first time we've received a product sample for a decal set that was sold out before release. In fact, you'll note an extra decal sheet for two international KC-135Rs which are sold as set 72032 but included as a bonus in the first 200 copies of 72030. These two aircraft are:
- KC-135R, '750', Republic of Singapore AF, 2011
- KC-135R, 60-0326, Turkish AF, 2013
Update: According to the Caracal Models, there are only 300 copies of this set produced and as of the date of this first-look, they haven't yet reached the two primary retailers for this set - Hannants and Sprue Brothers. Keep a sharp eye on one (or both) of these hobby shops and get your set before they're gone.
For more information about this set and the other releases from Caracal Models, visit their website at http://caracalmodels.com.
My sincere thanks to Caracal Models for this review sample!