Operation Torch (initially called Operation Gymnast) was the British-United States invasion of French North Africa during the North African Campaign of the Second World War which started on 8 November 1942. The successful Allied operation has been described as a "critical turning point in the war" and laid the foundations for America’s post-war Middle East policy. Despite its important role in the war, Torch has been largely overlooked.

The Soviet Union had pressed the US and British to start operations in Europe and open a second front to reduce the pressure of German forces on the Soviet troops. While US commanders favored Operation Sledgehammer, landing in Occupied Europe as soon as possible, British commanders believed that such a course was likely to end in disaster.

Furball Aero-Design has issued a new 1/48th scale sheet specifically for all the F-14 Tomcat models currently on the market. This sheet includes all the various stenciling and data which cover the plane on top/bottom and both sides. It includes both stencils for both the Gull Gray over white scheme, as well as, the Tactical Paint scheme and there are enough stencils to do both.

Inside the package, you will find a 3 x 6-inch decal sheet printed by Microscale and double-sided color instructions. This sheet has all the needed profiles to add the decals with one side being gray/white and the other tactical. Markings also include the drop tank, ejection seat and slime light decals. The decals are thin and well printed but as they say, the proof is in the pudding so I wanted to try these on the new Tamiya kit.

Recently I was given the opportunity by IPMS USA to review Aires T-28 Trojan Propeller “A” offering for the 1/32 Kitty Hawk T-28 Trojan kit. One of the first things to notice with this product is the excellent presentation of the packaging with the sealed flap on the back of package to allow for easy access to parts.

Upon removal of the spinner assemble and the propeller blades you will notice the detail that we have come to expect from Aires QB products. The molding and detail on the propeller parts are excellent and they come off the resin block with little effort along with the help of an X-Acto blade or razor saw.