Print Scale 48-157 Decal P-38J Lighting Top Pilots over Europe (1944-45) Part 1 Scale 1:48 for Aircraft Plastic model kit

Print Scale 48-157 Waterslide Decals are designed for 1/48 scale aircraft models of the Lockheed P-38J Lightning, featuring four individual USAAF subjects associated with the European and Mediterranean theaters in 1944. The sheet includes aircraft codes, serials, national insignia, and distinctive nose art elements as shown in the set’s profiles.

This release focuses on the late-war P-38J configuration and provides marking combinations intended for builders who want a specific airframe identity rather than generic insignia only.

The P-38 Lightning was a twin-engine fighter used for escort and long-range missions, and the J-series represents a common mid-to-late production variant. The options in this set reflect documented unit code styles and location/time captions included in the Print Scale instructions.

For modelers, this set is suitable for detailed 1/48 projects where precise code placement, multi-part insignia, and nose art alignment matter. It is labeled as universal for 1/48 P-38J kits; scale on the sheet is 1/48 (also written as 1:48).

• Aircraft: Lockheed P-38 Lightning
• Variant / Family: P-38J Lightning
• Scale: 1/48
• Product type: Waterslide decals
• Type of equipment: Aircraft
• Recommended kit: for Any / Universal
• Service / Subject country: United States Army Air Forces (USAAF)
• Manufacturer: Print Scale
• Country of manufacture: Ukraine
• Material: Paper
• SKU: Print Scale 48-157

Included aircraft marking options

• P-38J-15-LO (42-104425) “Boomerang”, 434th FS, 479th FG, 8th Air Force, Wattisham (UK), August 1944. Markings attributed to Capt. Arthur F. Jeffrey.
• P-38J-10 (42-68024) “Snookie II”, 49th FS, 14th FG, Triolo (Italy), June 1944. Markings attributed to Lt. Jack Lenox.
• P-38J-15 (43-28258) “Pat III”, 14th FG (Group HQ aircraft noted in instructions), Triolo (Italy), July 1944. Markings attributed to Col. Oliver B. Taylor.
• P-38J-15 (43-28650) “Sweet Sue / Nellie Ann”, 27th FS, 1st FG, Salsola (Italy), Summer 1944. Markings attributed to Lt. Phillip E. Tovrea.

The instruction sheet also shows a technical stencils layout for airframe servicing and placement reference.

This decal set is part of the Print Scale line and belongs to the Decals and Waterslide Decals categories. It is intended for use with 1/48 scale aircraft model kits and pairs well with builds from the aircraft model kits collection.

FAQ

How many individual aircraft options are included in this set?

The set provides four separate P-38J Lightning marking options, each shown as a numbered subject in the instructions.

Does the sheet include aircraft names and serial numbers?

Yes. The marking options include aircraft names (where applicable) and serials as presented in the Print Scale profiles.

Are technical stencils included or is it only unit markings?

The instructions indicate a technical stencils section in addition to the main identification markings.

Will these decals fit any 1/48 P-38J kit?

The set is listed as universal for 1/48 P-38J kits; final fit depends on the specific kit’s surface detail and panel layout.

What application approach works best for the fine markings?

A glossy base coat, careful positioning, and standard waterslide decal solutions can help the markings conform cleanly to panel lines and surface details.