The Atlas Cheetah D is a renowned fighter jet that served in the South African Air Force (SAAF) from the late 1980s. This multirole aircraft, developed as a modification of the Mirage III, played a vital role in the SAAF's operations, offering advanced avionics, improved weaponry, and enhanced maneuverability. The Cheetah D was used primarily as a strike fighter, excelling in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat roles.
This expertly built 1:48 scale model, created from the Kinetic model kit, showcases the precision and detail that the original fighter is known for. The assembly of the model involved meticulous fitting of each part to ensure seamless construction.
The aircraft's iconic SAAF camouflage was skillfully painted in shades of gray and dark gray, accurately replicating its operational livery. Special attention was given to the weathering process, adding subtle effects such as panel line washes, exhaust staining, and surface wear to give the model a realistic, battle-hardened look. These techniques bring out the aircraft's operational history, making this model a must-have for collectors and aviation enthusiasts.
