F-14A Tomcat 160658 VFA-124 "Gunfighters" Oct 1978 in 1:72 scale
This is the F-14A Tomcat 160658 VFA-124 "Gunfighters" Oct 1978 in 1:72 scale by Hobby Master.
The F-14A Tomcat (BuNo 160658) served with VF-124 “Gunfighters” in October 1978, a period when the squadron functioned as the U.S. Navy’s dedicated Fleet Replacement Squadron for the new Tomcat. Based at NAS Miramar, VF-124 was responsible for training aircrews and maintaining operational readiness as the F-14 entered frontline service. Aircraft 160658 was representative of the early-production F-14A configuration, featuring the powerful AWG-9 radar and AIM-54 Phoenix missile capability that gave the Tomcat unmatched long-range fleet air defense performance during the Cold War. Operating with VF-124, this aircraft played a crucial role not in combat, but in shaping a generation of Tomcat pilots and radar intercept officers, ensuring the Navy’s premier interceptor was fully mastered before deployment to operational squadrons.
Hobby Master has earned a reputation as one of the top-tier brands for die-cast aircraft due to its meticulous attention to detail, durable metal build, and rich historical accuracy. Collectors often praise their models for realistic panel lines, pad‑printed placards, functional features like removable canopies and landing gear, and authentic detachable ordnance—all hallmarks of their popular Air Power Series. Hobbyists consider Hobby Master “top‑notch,” ideal for collectors seeking museum‑grade realism and durable craftsmanship
The F-14A Tomcat (BuNo 160658) served with VF-124 “Gunfighters” in October 1978, a period when the squadron functioned as the U.S. Navy’s dedicated Fleet Replacement Squadron for the new Tomcat. Based at NAS Miramar, VF-124 was responsible for training aircrews and maintaining operational readiness as the F-14 entered frontline service. Aircraft 160658 was representative of the early-production F-14A configuration, featuring the powerful AWG-9 radar and AIM-54 Phoenix missile capability that gave the Tomcat unmatched long-range fleet air defense performance during the Cold War. Operating with VF-124, this aircraft played a crucial role not in combat, but in shaping a generation of Tomcat pilots and radar intercept officers, ensuring the Navy’s premier interceptor was fully mastered before deployment to operational squadrons.
Hobby Master has earned a reputation as one of the top-tier brands for die-cast aircraft due to its meticulous attention to detail, durable metal build, and rich historical accuracy. Collectors often praise their models for realistic panel lines, pad‑printed placards, functional features like removable canopies and landing gear, and authentic detachable ordnance—all hallmarks of their popular Air Power Series. Hobbyists consider Hobby Master “top‑notch,” ideal for collectors seeking museum‑grade realism and durable craftsmanship
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