Lockheed S-3B Viking

USN VS-21 "Red Tails", NF710, USS Kitty Hawk

Squadron Decommissioning 2005

Hobby Master 1:72 HA4909

After 60 years of unit history VS-21 "Red Tails" were decommissioned in February, 2005. Built in 1978 S-3A 160604 c/n 394A-1184 was the 184th of 187 Vikings built and was chosen to wear a special decommissioning paint scheme. The Commander of VS-21 provided photos and information as to what he wanted. A WWII era drawing of a woman was added to each side of the nose as well as modex 710. "NF" tail code was applied only to the starboard side and Bugs Bunny on the port side.

Lockheed S-3B Viking

Designed to meet the US Navy's VSX requirement for an Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) aircraft to replace the S-2 Tracker, the S-3 was first flown on January 21st, 1972. Designed for long-endurance missions, the aircraft features a wide low-swept wing and under-wing mounted, high-bypass turbofan engines that produce a distinctively low-pitch sound, earning the plane the nickname "Hoover" (after the vacuum cleaner). After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the ASW role became less significant and the S-3 was increasingly used for surface warfare, surveilance and aerial refuelling missions before being retired from service in 2009.

Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series

The Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" range presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft.

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

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