Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series HA2501
Republic F-105D Thunderchief Diecast Model
USAF 388th TFW, 34th TFS, David Waldrop, Korat RTAFB, Thailand, August 1967 |
| 1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Republic F-105D Thunderchief | | 10.75" | | 5.75" |
The Republic F-105 Thunderchief first entered service in 1958. It had been designed for high-speed low-level penetration to deliver a nuclear bomb but was converted to deliver conventional payloads. It was the largest U.S. single-engined fighter ever made and could carry a greater bomb load than the B-17, B-24 or B-29. Best known for its action in Vietnam the F-105 flew over 20,000 combat missions with the loss of 382 aircraft out of the 833 produced.
The F-105D was first accepted on September 28 1960 and became the major variant with 610 aircraft being built. Intended for a nuclear strike role but since the nuclear threat became less likely the role became a high-speed bomber. The Pitot tube was moved to the nose that had been extended approximately 15 inches more than the "B". The "D" received strengthened landing gear and an arrestor hook in the event it over shot the runway. During 1966 and 1967 F-105Ds managed to down 25 MiGs using the 20-mm cannon and 2 other using Sidewinder missiles.
With over 20,000 F-105 missions flown in Vietnam the most famous F-105D action came on August 2, 1967 when the 335th and 388th TFWs stationed at Korat AFB in Thailand heavily damaged the Paul Doumer Bridge north of Hanoi. This was a major artery for re-supply between China and North Vietnam. As part of the 388th TFW the 34th TFS flew F-105Ds from June 1966 until May 1969. On August 23, 1967 while flying an F-105D Lt. David B. Waldrop is credited with downing a MiG-17. Some say he actually shot down 2 aircraft.
Designed as a replacement for the F-84F Thuderstreak, the F-105 first flew on October 2, 1955. This Mach-2 capable aircraft was used for strike bombing during the Vietnam War. It was armed with a cannon and missiles and was also designed to carry a nuclear weapon. The single-seat F-105 was the largest single-engine fighter ever to serve with the USAF, and could deliver a greater bomb load than any of the 10-man strategic bombers that served during WWII. Despite these impressive statistics, the F-105 was also the only US aircraft in history to be removed from combat because of high rates of attrition. © Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
Hobby Master's 1:72 scale F-105 Thunderchief is a large, heavy model in this scale. This model has many fine features, including an accurately rendered "wasp waist" fuselage, a hinged canopy that locks securely in place leaving almost no visible gap, and cockpit details that include pad-printed screens and dial instrument panel. There is a M61 Vulcan cannon port, moveable horizontal stabalators that rotate in unison and an exhaust nozzle that can be configured. The solid metal wing has a plastic engine intake, which allows for correct replication of sharp edges. Most releases include a full range of ordnance (exceptions include air show releases).
© Copyright 2003-2013 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" range presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft.
Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power 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.
- Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
- Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.
© Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
