Dragon Models 1:72 Warbirds 50136
McDonnell Douglas F/A-18E Super Hornet Diecast Model
USN VFA-31 Tomcatters, AJ100, NAS Oceana, VA |
| 1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| McDonnell Douglas F/A-18E Super Hornet | | 10" | | 7.5" |
The "Tomcatters" is a U.S. Navy strike fighter squadron based at NAS Oceana. This squadron, VFA-31, flies the F/A-18E Super Hornet exclusively. Founded on 1 July 1935 as VF-1B "Shooting Stars", the squadron has an illustrious history. Most recently it participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom while aboard USS Abraham Lincoln where it flew 585 sorties. At the time, the "Tomcatters" was flying F-14D Tomcats. The unit's farewell to its Tomcats occurred in September 2006 during the "Tomcat Sunset". It was the Navy's last operational Tomcat squadron, and this will be reflected for time immemorial by their squadron name – "Tomcatters"! After this emotional farewell, VFA-31 began its transition to the F/A-18E Super Hornet, and today the "Fighting 31" specializes in night fighting. This is summed up in their motto of "We get ours at night".
Dragon Warbirds is offering a fine 1/72 scale die-cast model of an F/A-18E Super Hornet from VFA-31. The model is beautifully detailed, capturing the sleek and powerful stance of this potent U.S. military aircraft. The model bears all the appropriate markings of this unit including the "AJ" tail code, and a cartoon impression of Felix the Cat running with a spherical bomb in his paws. This item is a colorful and attractive offering that would enhance any model aircraft collection. VFA-31 has staked its place in history by being the last Tomcat squadron, but this model allows collectors to commemorate this new phase in their history as they operate the larger F/A-18E.
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. © Copyright 2003-2025 The Flying Mule, Inc.
Dragon's 1:72 scale F/A-18 is a crisp and finely detailed model that features nearly solid diecast metal construction. The solid metal wings and twin fins are sharply cast with fine panel line details generally seen in plastic models. The hinged canopy opens for a clear view of the cockpit interior details such as pad-printed front and side instrument panels. Other features include positionable horizontal stabilators, weathered engine exhaust nozzles and a delicate tail hook below. Each release features removable fuel tanks/ordnance. The series includes the single-seat F/A-18C and the two-seat F/A-18D Hornet with deployable speed brake and the more modern single-seat F/A-18E and two-seat F/A-18F Super Hornet.
© Copyright 2003-2013 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" range 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.
- 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.
© Copyright 2003-2025 The Flying Mule, Inc.
