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The SB2U Vindicator in McClelland Barclay’s Experimental Camouflage
A forgotten chapter in pre-war naval aviation
In the late 1930s and into 1940, both the U.S. Army and Navy began experimenting with camouflage techniques for their aircraft. One of the most creative—and least known—efforts came from the U.S. Navy, which collaborated with artist and naval officer Lt. Cdr. McClelland Barclay. His approach was far from conventional. Instead of mimicking natural environments, Barclay proposed bold, geometric patterns intended to confuse the eye and break up the outline of an aircraft in motion.
Several aircraft types were selected to test his ideas, including the SB2U Vindicator and the TBD-1 Devastator. Among them, Bureau Numbers 0320 and 0339 from the USS Saratoga were painted in distinct schemes identified as “Barclay Design No. 8.” This pattern featured non-reflective colors: dark navy blue, gray-blue, light gray, and white. The undersides were painted white with fine dark blue lines across the surfaces. Importantly, all markings and insignia were painted over—though wear and fading later revealed partial squadron codes like “3T” on the starboard side of BuNo 0339.
The paint used for these tests was temporary and water-based. It was designed to be removable, allowing aircraft to be returned to their standard markings after the trials. However, the lack of surface preparation meant the paint degraded quickly, especially on the exposed side of the aircraft, leading to significant chipping and flaking.
These tests took place over several weeks in the summer of 1940 and included simulated air combat and anti-aircraft defense exercises. Some aircraft were camouflaged while others retained their standard schemes, allowing for comparative evaluation. Despite the Navy’s interest in Barclay’s designs, the tests were ultimately deemed inconclusive. Observers noted that while the patterns were certainly eye-catching, they didn’t offer a significant tactical advantage. In some cases, the bold designs even made aircraft more visible in certain lighting conditions.
One important lesson did emerge: the Navy recognized the value of using non-reflective, matte paints, a practice that soon became standard across naval aviation. Though Barclay’s experimental patterns were never adopted, his work played a small but important role in the evolution of camouflage strategy.
Color Analysis – Barclay Design No. 8
Based on photographic and historical research, Barclay Design No. 8 likely included the following shades:
These colors were applied in geometric wraps across upper surfaces, with crisp transitions and layered angles—hallmarks of the Barclay concept. The lower surfaces were solid white, sometimes overlaid with fine dark blue striping for added distortion.
Color Conversion Chart
Paint Brand | Dark Navy Blue (FS 15044) | Gray Blue (FS 35189) | Light Gray (FS 36300–20) | Matte White (FS 17875) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Gunze Aqueous | H54 | H56 | H306 | H1 |
Mr. Color | C54 | C56 | C306 | C1 |
Humbrol | 15 | 64 | 127 | 34 |
Tamiya | XF-17 / XF-8 mix | XF-18 / XF-19 mix | XF-19 | XF-2 |
Revell | 52 | 74 | 76 | 05 |
Vallejo Model Air | 71.255 | 71.121 | 71.050 | 71.001 |
AK Real Colors | RC010 | RC208 | RC220 | RC222 |
AK Interactive | 3rd Gen 11820 | 3rd Gen 11061 | 3rd Gen 11057 | 3rd Gen 11001 |
AMMO by Mig | A.MIG-222 | A.MIG-223 | A.MIG-203 | A.MIG-050 |
Lifecolor | UA 003 | UA 045 | UA 046 | UA 708 |
Hatake Red Line | A037 | A038 | A034 | A001 |
Mission Models | MMP-077 | MMP-066 | MMP-097 | MMP-001 |
Xtracolor | X121 | X132 | X137 | X141 |
Xtracrylix | XA121 | XA132 | XA137 | XA141 |
Modeling Suggestions
If you want to recreate the Barclay camouflage on a scale model, here are some tips to bring it to life:
Recommended kits:
1/48 GWH SB2U-2 Vindicator
1/48 Great Wall Hobby TBD-1 Devastator
1/72 Special Hobby SB2U-1
Techniques:
Use flexible masking putty or precision-cut tape to recreate the angular patterns.
Apply a base coat of white, followed by carefully layered camo sections.
Add post-shading and paint chipping along seams and access panels for authenticity.
Weather with oil washes and dry brushing to simulate the wear and fading described in the test aircraft.
Aftermarket suggestions:
Photo-etched cockpit detail sets from Eduard
Resin propellers or wheels for improved realism
Decals: Print Scale and specialty shops occasionally offer Barclay-themed sheets
TBM Avenger – From Torpedo Bomber to Spray Plane and Firefighter
Conclusion
The SB2U Vindicator in McClelland Barclay camouflage represents a unique blend of military necessity and artistic experimentation. Though the trials were short-lived and the conclusions mixed, they left behind a rich visual legacy—and an irresistible challenge for scale modelers. Recreating one of these aircraft not only honors a little-known chapter of aviation history but results in a standout display piece that tells a story far beyond the surface.
Available at: eshop.gmodelart.com
https://www.airhistory.net/photo/680850/1352
https://www.worldwarphotos.info/gallery/usa/aircrafts-2-3/sb2u-vindicator/