Hobby Master 1/72 F/A-18A: RAAF

F/A-18A Hornet A21-39 was ordered by the RAAF in late 1981 and delivered in late 1988 and went into service with 3 Squadron. Eventually the aircraft was transferred to 77 Squadron at the RAAF base in Williamtown, NSW. In 2020 this aircraft was given a special paint scheme consisting of a dark green spine and tail with "1985-2020 33 Years Hornet" painted in white on the tail. The inside surface of the tails had an oriental lion image, the same as on the 77 Squadron crest.

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.

Hobby Master's 1:72 scale F/A-18 Hornet is a quality model with many fine features, skillfully designed and manufactured with modern techniques. The canopy can be removed for an unobstructed view of the cockpits pad-printed instrument panel and interior features. A separate canopy with a fixed actuator is included for display in the open position. The speed brake can be configured in the deployed position, and the landing gear and gear doors are constructed as subassemblies for quick and easy ground configuration. The series includes the single-seat F/A-18C and the two-seat F/A-18D. Each release is fitted with removable ordnance appropriate to its mission

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.