Print Scale 72-448 Decal 1:72 Lockheed F-80, Commanding office mounts: USA & Europe Part 2

Print Scale 72-448 waterslide decals are designed for 1/72 scale (also written as 1:72) plastic model kits of the Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star, focusing on aircraft associated with commanding officers in US service during the early Cold War period. This Part 2 sheet provides individual aircraft numbers and code styles intended for clean, historically referenced finishes on early jet subjects.

The F-80 is one of the early operational jet fighters used in the immediate post-WWII era and into the early 1950s. Its relatively uncluttered airframe makes titles, tail codes, and serial formats stand out, which is why accurate decal layout is important for a convincing result.

For modelers: the set is listed as universal for 1/72 kits. Several options rely on specific aircraft numbers paired with unit-identifying codes, so it helps to choose your subject early and test-fit the largest markings against the fuselage and fin. This sheet is generally best suited to experienced builders who want consistent alignment on natural metal or early jet paint finishes.

• Aircraft: Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star
• Variant / Family: F-80C-10 / F-80C-10-LO
• Scale: 1/72
• Product type: Waterslide decals
• Type of equipment: for Aircraft Plastic model kit
• Recommended kit: for Any / Universal
• Service / Subject country: United States (USAF)
• Manufacturer: Print Scale
• Country of manufacture: Ukraine
• Material: Paper
• SKU: Print Scale 72-448

Included aircraft marking options

• F-80C-10 Shooting Star, 49-653 / FT-653, 8th Fighter Bomber Group command aircraft context; Itazuke Air Base (Japan), June 1950; associated with Col. William T. Samways.
• F-80C-10 Shooting Star, 49-665 / FT-665, 51st Fighter Intercept Group command aircraft context; Tsuiki Air Base (Japan), July 1951; associated with Col. Irwin H. Dregne.
• F-80C-10 Shooting Star, 49-423 / FT-423, 8th Fighter Bomber Group command aircraft context; Suwon Air Base (South Korea), May 1952; associated with Col. Levi R. Chase.
• F-80C-10-LO Shooting Star, 49-580 / FT-580, 8th Fighter Bomber Wing command aircraft context; Suwon Air Base (South Korea), October 1952; associated with Col. Walter G. Benz Jr.

This decal sheet is part of the Print Scale range and belongs to the Decals and Waterslide Decals categories. It is intended for use with 1/72 scale aircraft model kits and complements builds within the main aircraft model kits collection.

FAQ

Does this set include national insignia and full squadron marking sets?

This Part 2 set focuses on specific aircraft identities (numbers/codes) for the listed command aircraft subjects. Depending on your chosen kit and finish, you may still use kit decals or another sheet for additional common markings.

Are these markings WWII-era?

No. The listed subjects are dated 1950–1952, which places them in the early Cold War period.

Can these decals be used with any 1/72 F-80 kit?

Yes, the product is listed as universal. As a practical step, compare the largest codes to your kit’s fin and fuselage dimensions before application.

What surface preparation helps with early-jet markings on natural metal finishes?

A smooth gloss base coat and careful handling during placement help reduce silvering and keep thin codes aligned, especially on natural metal or high-sheen finishes.