Fairchild A-10A Thunderbolt II

USAF 343rd CW, 18th TFS, #80-0221, Eielson AFB, AK, Exercise Cool Snow Hog 1982

Hobby Master 1:72 HA1336

December 18, 1981 saw the arrival of the first two A-10s, 80-221 and 80-222 assigned to Eielson AFB. Soon after their arrival 80-221 received an Arctic white paint scheme that differed from the usual all grey or green. This was an experimental scheme for the upcoming exercise "Cool Snow Hog '82-1" that was the first test for the A-10 operating at a forward base in Alaska. The exercise took place from March 8 to 16, 1982 in the area of Kotzebue, Alaska. The Snow Hog operating in Alaska never panned out.

Fairchild A-10A Thunderbolt II
Designed to counter criticism that the US Air Force wasn't serious enough about close air support, the A-10 Thunderbolt II was first flown on May 10, 1972. The Thunderbolt II is a single-seat attack aircraft used to protect ground forces from tanks, armored vehicles and other ground targets. Nicknamed "Warthog," the A-10 is highly maneuverable at low speeds and low altitude and is capable of short take-offs and landings. It is designed for easy maintenance-many of its parts are interchangeable between the right and left side and it can operate from bases with limited facilities. The A-10 is expected to remain in service until 2028 or beyond.

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.