Hobby Master 1/72 A-10C: Davis-MonahanAFB

A-10A 81-0962 c/n A-10-0657 was delivered to the USAF in 1981 and spent time with the 510th FS/ 52 FW, 81st FS/ 52FW. In 2008 81-0962 was converted to an A-10C and in 2013 transferred to the 354th FS/ 355th FW. For the 2021 Thunderbolt II "Demo Team" season A-10A 81-0962 was chosen and given a paint scheme resembling the F-105s used by the 355th TFW in the Vietnam War. On the side of the fuselage are the names of the unit's MIA, KIA and POWs.

Designed to counter criticism that the US Air Force wasn't serious enough about close air support, the A-10 Thunderbolt II was first flown on May 10, 1972. The Thunderbolt II is a single-seat attack aircraft used to protect ground forces from tanks, armored vehicles and other ground targets. Nicknamed "Warthog," the A-10 is highly maneuverable at low speeds and low altitude and is capable of short take-offs and landings. It is designed for easy maintenance-many of its parts are interchangeable between the right and left side and it can operate from bases with limited facilities. The A-10 is expected to remain in service until 2028 or beyond.

Hobby Master's 1:72 scale A-10 Thunderbolt II has crisp panel lines and a high-quality finish. The hinged canopy opens to expose beautifully recreated front and side instrument panels, control stick and seat. Other fine details include a slightly offset 30 mm gatling-gun barrel with cooling vents, a Pave Penny pod below the cockpit, several ventral mounted antenna and prominent high fuselage-mounted engine nacelles that provide an unobstructed view of the turbo fan's blades. The solid metal wing features cambered control surfaces and main gear nacelles, and a complete set of removable under-wing mounted ordnance has been included for multiple configuration options.

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.
• 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.