Hi Dave, thanks for your comments, my thought on the possibility of an ADV/F.3 to come are based on the following :
On the F.3 only the forward pair of Skyflash missiles are properly semi recessed the rear pair are mounted on fairings that protrude below the fuselage (see photo below), as Revell have broken the fuselage at just the point that the recesses begin and as a new forward fuselage would be required anyway, the missile recesses could be incorporated into the new mould. The other manufacturers that have kitted both IDS and ADV models have gone this route.
The other main feature of the F.3 the extended tailpipe would aso be a simple mod as Revell have also provided the rear fusege joint at the same point as the extended tailpipes/fuselage begins, the fin base fairing is also supplied as seperate parts so this too could be incorporated on the new sprue.
The only area that I can see would provide real problems are the wing glove fillets, as those on the F.3 are much sharper than those on the IDS, and the only way I can se these being done would be as scab on parts much like the forward fin RWR housing (these are fitted to all IDS versions the fact that Revell provide these as add on parts leads me to believe that they at least contemplated the possibility of an ADV at some point).
In short Revell would only need 1 or 2 new sprues incorporating a new forward fuselage and cockpit, a new rear fuselage/tailpipe fairing, some miscellaneous airframe mods (wing glove and fin fairings) and the AAM missile load/pylons.
I'm inclined to agree with you that all the changes necessary, probably killed any planned version stone dead, maybe if the Luftwaffe had bought the ADV too, then we would now have a nice ADV/F.3 kit on the market .
I'll wait on the Flightpath set but I think that I might have to consider selling some of my bodyparts to pay for it.
Living in hope and most definitely not holding my breath.
Ant