Boeing WB-50D 49-304 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron

These are 1/72 scale decals for Boeing WB-50D Superfortress 49-304, assigned to the 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, wearing the same dramatic natural metal and fluorescent red-orange (FS 28913) high-visibility scheme as its sister units.

The WB-50D was a dedicated weather reconnaissance variant of the B-50 Superfortress, equipped with meteorological instruments and extended-range systems for long-duration atmospheric sampling and storm penetration missions. The 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron was one of the Air Force's front-line weather recon units, flying these aircraft into tropical storms, typhoons, and severe weather systems across the Pacific and beyond — gathering the data that made accurate forecasting possible in an era before weather satellites.

The bold fluorescent red-orange panels on the tail, engine nacelles, and nose served as high-visibility search and rescue markings for aircraft operating alone over vast stretches of open ocean in deteriorating conditions. Serial 9304 wears the full "WEATHER" band markings and 59th WRS unit insignia, distinguishing it from the 53rd WRS Hurricane Hunters example while sharing the same eye-catching scheme.

A great companion to the 53rd WRS WB-50D listing, and a spectacular subject for any weather reconnaissance or Superfortress collection. Please allow some time for decal printing and shipping.