Dragon Models 1:72 Warbirds 50299
McDonnell Douglas F/A-18F Super Hornet Diecast Model
USN VFA-102 Diamondbacks, NF102, USS Kitty Hawk, w/Carrier Deck Display Base |
| 1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| McDonnell Douglas F/A-18F Super Hornet | | 10" | | 7.5" |
Currently based at Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi in Japan, VFA-102 is a United States Navy strike fighter squadron. The "Diamondbacks" squadron was originally established on 1 July 1955 in Jacksonville Florida and its first aircraft was the F2H Banshee. More recently, the squadron participated in Operation Enduring Freedom in the wake of the September 11 terror attacks in 2001. The squadron's F-14 Tomcats flew 3346 combat hours and dropped 645 bombs and guided 50,000+ precision-guided munitions. After returning from its deployment, the Diamondbacks began transitioning to the F/A-18F Super Hornet.
Today the insignia of a red rattlesnake coiled around a globe is proudly emblazoned on the unit's 13 Super Hornets, and none more so than on a new miniature from Dragon Warbirds. The markings on this F/A-18F Super Hornet are expertly rendered, with the famous Diamondbacks emblem and the "NF" tail code. This is more than just a model fighter aircraft, for it's a complete diorama straight from the box. The accurately formed Super Hornet with a full complement of missiles and bombs is mounted on a scenic base representing an aircraft carrier deck, perhaps the USS Kitty Hawk to which the squadron is attached in its latest deployment. It's an action scene, for the F/A-18F is ready for takeoff, the carrier's jet-blast deflector shield already raised into position. The diorama is populated with a realistic-looking ground crewman and typical deck paraphernalia such as a fire tender. All collectors need to do is open the packaging and they have an instant diorama ready for display. "Clear the decks for takeoff!"
Designed as a replacement for the A-4 Skyhawk and the A-7 Corsair II and as a complement to the F-14 Tomcat, the F/A-18 first flew on November 18, 1978. Perhaps best known as the aircraft of the US Navy's Blue Angels, this carrier-capable, supersonic, all-weather fighter has many roles, including fighter escort, fleet air defense and close air support. The F/A-18 is a versatile aircraft: it can operate from carriers or land bases and a single switch converts it from fighter to strike mode. During Operation Desert Storm, the F/A-18 proved that, on a single mission, one aircraft could serve as both fighter and a bomber. © Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
Dragon's 1:72 scale F/A-18 is a crisp and finely detailed model that features nearly solid diecast metal construction. The solid metal wings and twin fins are sharply cast with fine panel line details generally seen in plastic models. The hinged canopy opens for a clear view of the cockpit interior details such as pad-printed front and side instrument panels. Other features include positionable horizontal stabilators, weathered engine exhaust nozzles and a delicate tail hook below. Each release features removable fuel tanks/ordnance. The series includes the single-seat F/A-18C and the two-seat F/A-18D Hornet with deployable speed brake and the more modern single-seat F/A-18E and two-seat F/A-18F Super Hornet.
© Copyright 2003-2013 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircaft.
Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" diecast airplanes feature:
- Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
- Selected moveable control surfaces.
- Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear.
- Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
- Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
- Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.
© Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
