F-35C VX-9 “Vampires” BuNo 168842 – The Mirror-Coated Stealth Fighter

 A New Chapter in Stealth Camouflage

The F-35C BuNo 168842 assigned to VX-9 “Vampires” has stunned spotters and analysts alike with its unusual mirror-like reflective finish. Photographed upon arrival at Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC) Point Mugu, California, this aircraft joins the earlier sighting of the mysterious “XE-100” seen flying low through Sidewinder Trail in Sequoia National Park.

Now designated as “XE-105”, this aircraft is expected to participate in intense daily test missions from August 22 to September 2, as part of a large-scale naval aviation training exercise.

VX-9 is one of the US Navy’s premier Air Test and Evaluation Squadrons, based out of Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, specializing in experimental systems, camouflage, and sensors for next-gen fighters.

 What Is This Mirror Coating?

The reflective coating is not traditional paint—it is a stealth mosaic skin composed of overlapping tiles or “leaf-like” segments that vary in reflectivity based on angle and lighting. From certain perspectives, national insignia, tail codes, and squadron logos are visible, while from others, they fade or vanish entirely.

In one photo, the wing roundel disappears as the jet pitches vertical—turning from dark to light and back. This optical illusion suggests either translucent coating over markings or logos integrated directly into the stealth layer, serving both visual and radar-disruptive purposes.

This effect mimics what we’ve seen on “mirror Raptors” from Nellis AFB, but this F-35C takes it even further, possibly hinting at 6th-gen adaptive stealth skin technologies.

Modeling Guide – Recreating the Mirror Finish in Scale

Reproducing this F-35C’s unique mirror-stealth camouflage in scale is a rewarding challenge for advanced modelers. Below is a recommended approach:

 1. Surface Preparation

• Use gloss black primer (Alclad ALC-305 or Mr. Surfacer 1500 Black + gloss clear).

• Sand progressively with Micromesh (up to 8000 grit) for a glass-like surface.

2. Mirror Coat

Use one of the following metallic finishes:

• Alclad II Chrome (ALC-107)

• AK Xtreme Metal Polished Aluminium or Chrome

• Mr. Color Super Metallic 2 – Super Chrome Silver

Tip: To create a bluish or violet reflective sheen (as seen in real aircraft), mix in small amounts of Tamiya Clear Blue or Clear Violet over chrome.

 3. Stealth Panel Variation

To replicate the subtle RAM panel pattern:

• Use masking templates or aftermarket decals

• Add very light panel line filters in gray, blue-gray, or even lilac

 4. Faded/Disappearing Markings

• Print insignia/markings on transparent decal film

• Apply under satin or semi-gloss clear to simulate “see-through” effects

• Use Have Glass Clear Coats for RAM finish (see below)

 Available Kits – F-35C in 1/48 & 1/72