It comes as no surprise that the 109 is my favorite airplane, and this sheet is one of the reasons why. The amount of color options for the airplane is staggering. This sheet contains markings for two G-6s, one E-1, and one F-2, so there is something there for everyone.

The instructions are printed on two single-sided full-color A4-sized sheets. You get a three-view drawing for each aircraft. The instructions are what really help set Lifelike Decals apart. They are not afraid to tell you what they know and what they don’t know. The other thing that you don’t normally get is the history of the aircraft. The reference section shows you where Lifelike got their interpretation from. There is a half A4 sheet showing you where stencils go.

The decals are printed on two small sheets. The main sheet is 5.5 x 4 and contains most of the markings for the aircraft. The second sheet is 1.5 x 2.5 and has some very small markings and the JG54 badge.

The first aircraft was formerly flown by Ace of Aces, Erich Hartmann. Interestingly, the life of the aircraft after Hartmann’s departure is little known. Typical of the aircraft of the period, this aircraft is painted in RLM 74/75/76. The aircraft has Hartmann’s black tulip nose. The yellow bands, outer wing panels, and Hungarian theater “V” offer a splash of color. The “V” was added after Hartmann left, as was the 7th “Sense” marking on the engine cowling.

The next 109 is an E-1, “Black 13”, which has been fitted with a later canopy frame. It is obvious that the aircraft was refurbished, as it is also painted in RLM 74/75/76 instead of the early war colors. The unique marking of a lightning bolt on both sides adds a little bit of color to the aircraft.

Hans Phillip from JG54 provides the markings for this Bf-109F-2, “White 9”. It carries the normal RLM 74/75/76 paint scheme on the wings, but what sets this aircraft apart is the squiggle pattern on the fuselage sides that was tested by JG54. The colors are RLM 74 squiggle with RLM 76 and 02 in the center. The leading edges of the wings and tail have yellow tape or markings on them.

The final aircraft is a G-6 with Erla Haube canopy, assigned to JG300. The aircraft carries a very unique overall RLM 75 with splotches of RLM 74. This makes for a very interesting looking aircraft. The aircraft also has the broad red RVD band.

I really enjoy the colorful options that Lifelike provides. The history is an added bonus. The quality of the decals and the usefulness of the instructions make this, and all of Lifelike Decals, an exceptional value.

Highly recommended

Thanks to Lifelike for the review copy and IPMS/USA for the opportunity to review it.