Hello everyone,
This is my 1/48 Hasegawa F-18C Hornet in the markings of the "All American Bug" the CAG bird of the USN Squadron VFA-146 also known as the Blue Diamonds.
I bought this kit way back in the early 90's and never really found a colourful paint scheme that I liked as "Low Vis" schemes were the "in thing" at the time. Also all those years ago, I found the kit a little bit too challenging for me to take on!

With the release of these markings in 1/48 scale from Two Bobs, I just had to build this beautiful jet. A lot has already been written here about pro's, con's and construction of this well detailed kit so I've leave that to those wiser than myself. My model was built out of the box, except for the decal sheet and a detail set from Eduard.

This scheme was painted on the original aircraft during the squadrons first deployment on Operation Enduring Freedom. Originally the A/C had blue and yellow flames as it's paint scheme, however once at sea during OEF the crew of the USS Stennis wanted to make the CAG bird more patriotic. The design was approved by chain of command (who couldn't)? and after 3-4 days the paint job was complete. USN Capt. R.C. Thompson flew this hornet during the first VFA-146 strike over Afghanistan and was the first pilot "over the beach".

The Two Bobs decals provide excellent markings for this striking fighter and I couldn't recommend them highly enough. In all this was a very rewarding build for me, I hope you enjoy it too.

Regards,
Darren