1/48 Tamiya P-38G Lightning. Operation Vengeance.
Hello!
This is my latest project: Tamiya's well-known and widely acclaimed P-38 Lightning in 1/48 scale. I won't go on about how exceptional the kit is — the fit is so precise that even a light coat of paint or a touch too much glue can make a noticeable difference. Some parts, like the wheel bay doors, fit so perfectly they held in place without any adhesive at all.
I added Reskit resin wheels and guns, though in truth, the kit scarcely needed them. If I had to note any areas for improvement, it would be the decals, which are slightly thick, and the canopy masks — laser-cut versions would have been a real time-saver. As it stands, you'll spend a fair bit of time carefully cutting them for a precise fit.
For paint, I used Gunze colors, heavily thinned with Mr. Leveling Thinner.
P-38s shipped to the Pacific often had specific areas protected with sealing tapes to guard against sea salt damage. When these tapes were removed, they left subtle contrasts between the original paint and areas already weathered. Sometimes, glue residues left slightly darker patches. I tried to replicate these details using 2mm tape and some freehand work to suggest the glue marks. It's a subtle effect, but it's there.
Given that these aircraft faced harsh conditions in the Pacific Theater, I chose a weathered finish to reflect the effects of sun, rain, and sand.
This particular fighter took part in Operation Vengeance, the historic 1943 mission that intercepted and shot down Admiral Yamamoto's plane over somewhere over Bougainville, also part of the Solomon Islands chain.
I hope you enjoy it!
Cheers,
George
Super weathering, another George
Thank you!
Splendid work George, it’s a fine looking P-38! The taping effect is quite convincing
Thank you!
Fantastic result, George!
Congratulations!
Thank you!
There is so much that is great on this build. The tape residue markings, paint chipping, antenna mast are are exquisite. One of the best I’ve seen online or in person.
Thank you!
Great result. I’ve built this kit twice but not to this high standard. I think I will give it another go.
Thank you!
Excellent work, George @george72
The tape discoloration effect is done perfectly.
Well done.
Thank you!
Looks amazing, George.
How they completed Operation Vengeance is beyond me, talk about aligning timing coordination.
Thank you! And I agree, it was a fantastic show of airmanship.
I am going to echo Matt M’s comment. Excellent in all respects.
Thank you!
Wonderful paint and weathering work! A real beauty.
Thank you!
Well done, George (@george72), especially the weathering and markings.
Thank you!
Nice work, George. Love the eroded paint areas.
Thank you!
Great job, George! the overall paint/weathering look amazing.
Thank you!
Excellent work on that Lightning!
Thank you!
G’day George (@george72),
Nicely done, particularly the tape effect.
Liked!
Good day! Thank you!