F-16A Fighting Falcon - Italeri 2786

This F-16A model kit from Italeri comes with four paint schemes and decals for USAF, ITAF (Italia) and RNLAF (Netherlands) which is the main reason why I chose this kit. The black/white instructions contains 10 building steps with several options for the different variants.The four different paint schemes are colored. The instructions also contains an overview of all the sprue parts and suggested colors.

Scale Models
Model:F-16A Fighting Falcon
Brand:Italeri
Number:2786
Scale:1:48
Released:2018 (new decals)
Tools:1994
Rating:

Pros

  • Paint schemes and decals for four variants
  • Instruction guide is easy to follow and clearly shows optional parts for the different variants.
  • Easy build for beginners
  • Several options for fuel tanks and missiles incl. AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 Sidewinder.

Cons

  • Based on old tools from 1994 so not as detailed as newer kits and also expect some need for plastic putty.
  • Several issues with bad fitting: Worst problem is the canopy but also the compartment for the main landing gear has some fitting issues. 
  • The canopy does not fit the main fuselage and it will require a lot of work to make it look nice.
  • Cockpit is simplified and do not match any of the F-16A cockpits I have ever seen, look like a 1:72 that has just been scaled up to 1:48 🙁 
  • I am confused about the decal choices for this kit; the European Participating Countries (EPG) Belgium, Denmark, The Netherlands and Norway was partnering with USA when developing the F-16 and was the first European countries to adapt the F-16A. Italy however only leased F-16 for a short duration while waiting for their Eurofighter Typhoons becoming ready for service. For this reason I would prefer if this kit include decals for all the EPG countries.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a beginner friendly F-16A kit with decals for RNLAF (Royal Netherlands Air Force) or Italia, then this kit may be your choice.

However if you are an experienced modeller you may prefer a newer kit with better cockpit details. 

Personally I do not like this model and will likely create a new F-16 model from another brand later.