In this report we present results of combined high resolution LT-STM and LEED studies of ultrathin epitaxial KBr films grown on an InSb(0 0 1) c(8 x 2) substrate. Based on atomically resolved STM maps and LEED diffractograms the film structure as well as superimposed electronic effects are explained. The origin of additional 4 x 4 superstructure observed on ultrathin films is discussed. Possible application of the KBr/ InSb system as a template for growing organic molecule structures is suggested. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.