Code: DM-50335 Quantity in Basket: none Status: JUL 2008 PRE-ORDER Click "Add to Basket" to pre-order this item now or Request to be notified when this item is in stock Price: $42.99
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Dragon 1:72 Warbirds 50335 F-14D Tomcat Diecast Model USN VF-213 Black Lions, AJ213, w/3 Figures 1:72 Scale     Length     Width Grumman F-14D Tomcat     10.25"     10.75" PLEASE NOTE: This item has a planned release date of July 2008 and is only available for PRE-ORDER at this time. Orders are not shipped until complete. If you wish to receive in-stock items prior to pre-ordered items, you must place separate orders. Release dates are subject to change. Consider them to be estimates as manufacturers frequently revise them. Credit Cards are not billed until time of shipment. Check or PayPal payment (not recommended) is required at time of order. This super detailed model features the colorful paint scheme of the VF-213 Black Lions. The “Black Lions” squadron has the rare distinction of being one of only a handful of U.S. Navy squadrons that has retained the designation it was originally established with, that of VF-213. Today this squadron is stationed at North Island NAS, and operates the F-14D Tomcat. Along with its sister VF-103 “Jolly Rogers” squadron, it is the last to fly the twin-engine Tomcat with its variable-geometry wings. The Grumman F-14 Tomcat is a United States Navy supersonic, twin-engine, variable sweep wing, two-seat strike fighter. The Tomcat's primary missions are air superiority, fleet air defense, and precision strike against ground targets. To facilitate early introduction of the F-14 into service the first version of the aircraft was planned using the engine and weapons system technology from the F-111B, and then, progressively introduce new engines and a new weapons system into the F-14 new airframe. Thus, the designation F-14A was assigned to the new aircraft equipped with updated TF-30 engines and the AN/AWG-9 weapons system from the F-111B. A F-14B was planned to follow using the engine from the advanced technology engine competition. Then, the 'B' would be followed by the F-14C with a new weapons system replacing the AN/AWG-9. In the event, the AN/AWG-9 replacement was delayed and when it arrived, as the AN/APG-71, the designation assigned to the new aircraft was F-14D. The F-14C, thus, was never produced. This model is made even more desirable with the inclusion of a display base and a set of three well-sculpted crewmen. This means the presentation is attractive and instant – simply remove the packaging and the diorama is ready for immediate display! The Tomcat’s heyday in active service may be over, but this collector’s item gives it a welcome lease of life. Dragon 1:72 Warbirds The Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircaft. Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds 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. Selected moveable control surfaces. Optional 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. [See more Dragon 1:72 Warbirds products] Grumman F-14D Tomcat Designed to replace the F4 Phantom II, the F14 was first flown on December 21st, 1970.[See more Grumman F-14D Tomcat products]