Hobby Master 1/72 F-15C: 'Desert Storm'

The 53rd FS began as the 53rd Pursuit Squadron. In 1952 the squadron began operating from Bitburg and in 1977 received their first F-15A/B with newer F-15C/D replacements arriving in 1980. On December 20, 1990 24 aircraft from the 53rd TFS deployed to the Gulf War until July 1, 1991. On January 27, 1991 53rd TFS F-15C 84-0027 flown by Captain Benjamin Powel shot down an Iraqi Mirage and a MiG-23. The 53rd returned to Bitburg and on October 1, 1991 was re-designated 53rd FS. The 53rd FS was deactivated in 1999.

Designed to meet US Air Force requirements for an air superiority fighter to replace the F-4 Phantom, the F-15 Eagle first flew on July 27, 1972. The Air Force needed a fighter that could engage long range targets, a skill the F-4 did not possess. The F-15 has a pulse-Doppler radar system, which can track small high-speed targets up to 120 nautical miles away and can lock its missile onto targets up to 50 nautical miles away. With more than 100 aerial combat victories, the F-15 is said to be one of the most successful modern fighters. It is expected to remain in service until 2025.

Hobby Master's 1:72 scale F-15 is produced with a high metal content using state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques. The model features near seamless construction as seen on all Hobby Master products, and this is particularly evident with the tight-fitting conformal fuel tanks present on the F-15E variant. Separate open and closed canopy and speed brakes are included, yielding uncompromising detail that functional hinges would lack at this scale. Other fine features include a detailed cockpit interior, a variety of ordnance and drop tanks appropriate to the paint-scheme and landing gear that constructed as completed subassemblies for easy installation.

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.