North American RA-5C Vigilante

USN RVAH-6 Fleurs, USS Constellation, 1966, Experimental SEA Camo Scheme

HM 1:72  HA4710

During the Vietnam war, the US Navy and US Air Force both experimented with jungle camouflage schemes designed to obscure aircraft from high-flying MiGs. In 1966, RVAH-6 experimented with a camouflage scheme on some RA-5C airframes. Operating from Constellation, pilots and reconnaissance crews flew missions over North Vietnam and the surrounding region, gathering critical intelligence while testing the effectiveness of the experimental paint scheme in operational conditions. The results proved inconclusive for the US Navy and the schemes were eventually dropped. The Air Force, however, concluded that the camouflage was effective and continued to use it throughout the conflict.

North American RA-5C Vigilante

Designed to meet a US Naval requirement for a high-performance, all-weather attack aircraft, the A-5 was first flown on August 31st, 1958. The large, swept-wing design incorporated a bomb-bay between the two powerful J79 engines. This enabled the Vigilante to deliver a free-fall nuclear bomb while flying at supersonic speeds. Later versions of the A-5 were developed for a reconnaissance role and the bomb-bay housed additional fuel-tanks.

Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" diecast airplanes feature:

• Molded metal construction with plastic components.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Inscriptions and posters printed with a stamp that do not fade or fall off like decals.
• opening of awnings, revealing detailed within the cockpit.
• Extended / retracted interchangeable landing gear.
• Display stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
• Authentic detachable artillery cargoes complete with placards.