I have a M43 ambulance that I would like to do as Vietnam era USAF ambulance, my research has offered “strata blue or air force blue” as the color. I am unclear on what hobby paint is a good match, colors on a computer monitor obviously don’t cut it. I once used Testors “Blue Angel Blue” on a different project, but can’t find it. Various pictures show this vehicle in blues ranging from a lighter faded blue to a much darker version. If I can use a currently available hobby paint as a start, I could lighten or darken as needed.
Thanks in advance
Here’s a restored 1963 Dodge Power-Wagon response ambulance in Strata Blue livery :
H.P.
Testors model master line has phased about 3yrs at least
The color was called Strata Blue, FS number 15045 of Federal Standard 595. There is no exact model paint equivalent to it. Tamiya XF-8 is considered one of the closest matches.
That Power Wagon is awesome, that’s kinda of what I’m going for. The one pic showed the beginning of the restoration and the paint had a bit of faded oxidized look to it. I not sure exactly the way I will go, the used older faded version or the new fresh one.
I know Testors is gone, but I am looking for a starting point with the modern acrylics. If figure that from that point I can go with new or faded paint. I don’t know, from some photos, the faded blue almost looks like a different blue completely. So any input is appreciated.
Ya, I tracked down those numbers, XF8 looks like a good starting point.
Blend it as needed to get the right shade of blue.
Door marking details - don’t mind the sun-faded colors.
Hope these images help out. ![]()
Wow, all helpful info. In that second pic you can really see the difference fading over time changes the color. So far it looks like Tamiya xf8 is going to be the starting point and adjust as needed for the desired fading.
Thanks to all
Just wanted to thank all who helped, I just realized, I should have put this post in different area or era in this forum, but it was still of great help.
Thanks
this is a mix using tamiya flat 35045 – USN NON-SPEC. SEA BLUE ANA 607 – XF-17 sea blue 5 parts + XF-8 flat blue 3 parts + XF-2 flat white 2 parts, can’t vouch for accuracy.
No these images just make me want what’s not out there . . .
Somebody please make these in 1:35th!
Cajun ![]()
MOPAR forever!
Closest match I’ve found (providing you can 3D-print it in this scale…)
Dodge W200 Power Wagon Crew Cab 1962 :
https://cults3d.com/fr/mod%C3%A8le-3d/jeu/dodge-w200-power-wagon-crew-cab-1962
H.P.
Henri, you are absolutely remarkable! If I were print capable . . ., well if I could print my own stuff, y’all would never see me again I’m sure. LOL have a great day!
Cajun ![]()
Love that Powerwagon, I wish that were on my project list.







