Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series HA2502 Republic F-105B Thunderchief Diecast Model USAF Thunderbirds, 1964 |
1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
---|
Republic F-105B Thunderchief | | 10.75" | | 5.75" |
The "B" variant of the Republic F-105 Thunderchief was the initial production version and became operational in May 1958 replacing the F-84 Thunderjet. On December 11, 1959 an F-105B set a world speed record of 1,216.48 mph over a 62 mile course. The F-105B never saw combat and only 75 were produced before the all-weather "D" variant became available in 1964. The F-105Bs were transferred to ANG and AFRES units with their last flight in 1981 when they were sent to be scrapped. At least five aircraft were spared and sent to museums.
On June 1, 1953 the 3600th Air Demonstration Team was activated and later named "Thunderbirds". In 1964 the USAF Thunderbirds selected the F-105B as their new aircraft replacing the F-100C. Nine specially modified Thunderchiefs arrived for the new season. After the sixth show of the season tragedy struck when Capt. Gene Devlin died when his F-105 broke apart while performing a high-G climbing maneuver prior to landing. Later that year the team returned to the F-100D variant and flew this until 1969 when they switched to the F-4 Phantom II.
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.