Hobby Master - 1/72 F/A-18F VFA-41 Black Aces CAG
In 2001 onboard the USS Enterprise and equipped with the F-14 VF-41 “Black Aces" sailed in support of Operation Southern Watch and Operation Enduring Freedom. In late 2001 when VF-41 returned to NAS Lemoore they transitioned to the F/A-18F Super Hornet and were redesignated VFA-41. In 2011 VFA-41 deployed on the USS John C. Stennis to support Operation Enduring Freedom and the last of Operation New Dawn. After a short stay back at Lemoore VFA-41 and USS John C. Stennis sailed in September 2012 to support Operation Enduring Freedom.
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.
Features:
- Scale 1:72
- Length: 10" width: 7.5"
- 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
- 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