1/72 Starfighter Decals Aftermarket Parts

Starfighter Decals 1/72 Scale American Military Aviation Markings

Starfighter Decals has established itself as the premier manufacturer of historically accurate decals for American military aircraft, specializing in the colorful and often overlooked markings of pre-war and early World War II aviation. Their 1/72 scale collection represents decades of research into squadron markings, national insignia evolution, and individual aircraft histories. Each decal sheet provides comprehensive marking options with authentic colors, precise registration, and thin carrier film for realistic appearance. Starfighter Decals fills critical gaps in aftermarket decal availability, offering subjects rarely covered by other manufacturers.

Pre-War USAAC Pursuit Groups and Colorful Markings

The United States Army Air Corps of the 1920s and 1930s featured some of the most colorful aircraft markings in aviation history. The 1st Pursuit Group decal sheets cover this legendary unit from 1922 through 1939, documenting the evolution of squadron markings, aircraft types, and color schemes. Distinctive markings included full-fuselage stripes, elaborate tail designs, and colorful cowling patterns that identified squadrons at a glance. The P-6E Hawk sheets showcase the Snow Owls and other famous markings on this graceful biplane fighter. P-26 Peashooter sheets document the first all-metal monoplane fighter in USAAC service with its characteristic fixed landing gear and open cockpit. P-12E sheets provide multiple marking options for this classic Boeing biplane fighter. These pre-war markings represent a golden age of military aviation when peacetime allowed elaborate decorative schemes.

USN Carrier Aircraft and Early War Operations

United States Navy carrier aviation evolved rapidly from the 1930s through World War II, and Starfighter Decals documents this progression with comprehensive coverage. Early USN Wildcats sheets show the F4F in pre-war markings with colorful tail codes and full-color national insignia. Wildcats at Midway sheets provide authentic markings for this pivotal June 1942 battle, including VF-3, VF-6, and VF-8 aircraft. The revised and updated USN at Midway sheet offers the latest research on aircraft markings from all carrier air groups present. TBD Devastator sheets cover both neutrality patrol markings and combat operations, documenting this torpedo bomber that bore the brunt of early carrier battles. SBD Dauntless sheets showcase colorful pre-war markings and combat schemes from various operations. These sheets enable accurate recreation of carrier air groups during the critical early war period.

World War II Combat Operations

Starfighter Decals provides detailed coverage of specific World War II operations with sheets focused on individual battles and campaigns. Operation Torch sheets document carrier aircraft markings from the November 1942 North African invasion, including unique identification markings. Operation Leader sheets cover USS Ranger aircraft during the 1943 Norwegian raid. USN Hit and Run Raids sheets document the early 1942 carrier strikes against Japanese-held islands. Avengers at War sheets track TBF/TBM operations around the world from 1942 through 1945. Bent Wing Birds sheets cover F4U Corsair operations in multiple theaters with various marking schemes. These operation-specific sheets provide the research and accuracy needed for historically correct models of specific aircraft and missions.

Army Air Forces Combat Aircraft

USAAF combat aircraft receive thorough coverage with sheets documenting various aircraft types and theaters. P-40B/C/G sheets provide markings for Warhawk operations in multiple theaters including the famous Flying Tigers schemes. B-10/B-12 sheets document these pioneering all-metal bombers in USAAC service with colorful pre-war markings. The sheets include comprehensive stencil data, national insignia in various styles, and squadron markings that evolved throughout the war. Color callouts reference Federal Standard and other paint systems for accurate finishing.

Specialized and Unusual Subjects

Starfighter Decals excels at covering unusual and specialized subjects often ignored by other manufacturers. The F4D-1 Skyray satellite launch platform sheet documents the NOTSNIK anti-satellite project, a fascinating Cold War program. SH-3D Apollo recovery helicopter sheets cover Old 66 and other aircraft from Apollo missions 8 through 12. Seagulls at War sheets document SOC Seagull observation aircraft in combat operations. L-4 Grasshopper sheets provide markings for these ubiquitous liaison aircraft. PT-13/PT-17 Kaydet sheets cover primary trainers in various schemes. The F11C-2 Goshawk conversion set includes both decals and resin parts for this distinctive naval fighter. These specialized subjects allow modelers to build unique aircraft rarely seen in model form.

Decal Quality and Application

Starfighter Decals are printed using modern digital printing technology on high-quality decal film. The thin carrier film virtually disappears under clear coats, eliminating the thick decal edge visible on older decals. Colors are vibrant and accurately matched to historical references. Registration is precise, ensuring multi-color markings align properly. The decals respond well to setting solutions, conforming to panel lines and surface details. Application follows standard waterslide decal techniques including surface preparation with gloss coat, decal positioning with water, setting solution application, and final clear coat protection. Proper technique yields results indistinguishable from painted markings.

Historical Research and Accuracy

Each Starfighter Decals sheet reflects extensive historical research using period photographs, official documents, and veteran accounts. The instruction sheets provide detailed historical background, color information, and application notes. Multiple views show decal placement from various angles. Color callouts specify paint colors for accurate finishing. The research corrects common misconceptions and provides the latest information on controversial markings. This attention to historical accuracy makes Starfighter Decals sheets valuable references beyond their use as modeling accessories.

Expand Your Aircraft Decal Collection

Complete your 1/72 scale builds with 1/48 Starfighter Decals aftermarket parts for larger scale projects. Explore additional decal options with 1/72 Lifelike Decals aftermarket parts and 1/72 Zotz Decals aftermarket parts. Build your collection with aircraft from 1/72 Trumpeter prop aircraft and 1/72 Tamiya prop aircraft. Discover ship decals with 1/700 Starfighter Decals ship accessories and 1/350 Starfighter Decals ship accessories. Visit Starfighter Decals to explore their complete product line and discover how authentic historical markings bring scale aircraft models to life with accurate squadron colors and individual aircraft histories.