Franklin Mint Armour Collection B11B618 A-10 Warthog Diecast Model USAF 57th TTW, Nellis AFB, NV, JAWS Evaluation 1977| 1:48 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Fairchild A-10 Thunderbolt II | | 13.25" | | 14.5" |
In 1977, the military mirrored the popular film JAWS as its acronym and name for its tactical tests of the A-10 and Army attack helicopters became the ‘Joint Attack Weapons System’ (JAWS). Air Force Aggressor pilots reported that the A-10's light celestial camouflage scheme made the ‘Warthog’ easily visible from above, so the 57th Tactical Training Wing developed a new terrestrial camouflage of tan, green, or grey, sprayed and brushed with other earth tones. Two of the camouflages were evaluated at JAWS II in November 1977, and by September 1978 the ‘Lizard’ scheme became a minor, though well-remembered, camouflage oddity. The A-10 Thunderbolt II is an American single-seat, twin-engine, straight-wing jet aircraft developed by Fairchild-Republic for the United States Air Force to provide close air support (CAS) of ground forces by attacking tanks, armored vehicles, and other ground targets, with a limited air interdiction capability. It is the first U.S. Air Force aircraft designed exclusively for close air support. The A-10's official name comes from the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt of World War II, a fighter that was particularly effective at close air support. However, the A-10 is more commonly known by its nickname "Warthog" or simply "Hog". As a secondary mission, it provides airborne forward air control, guiding other aircraft against ground targets. A-10s used primarily in this role are designated OA-10. The Franklin Mint "Armour Collection" presents diecast detailed, ready-made diecast models of military and civilian aircraft. Armour Collection diecast airplanes from The Franklin Mint require no glueing or painting. Each model is an instant display piece or diorama centerpiece straight from the box. Made from diecast metal and plastic components, the die cast airplanes in the Franklin Mint's Armour Collection are 100% true to scale. Franklin Mint "Armour Collection" 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.
- Detailed cockpit interiors.
- No pilot figures.
- Sturdy fixed metal landing gear for static display.
- Authentic fixed ordnance loads.
- Accurately detailed underside.
Designed orginally as a counter-insurgency aircraft for the Vietnam conflict, the A-10 was first flown in 1972. |