Lockheed F-22J Raptor

JASDF 3rd Hikotai, no. 37-8322, Japan, Fantasy Aircraft

Hobby Master 1:72 HA2830

Since its creation in 1954, the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force has had a long history of purchasing state-of-the-art military aircraft from the United States, including the F-4 Phantom II and F-15 Eagle. Japan has long shown interest in advanced stealth fighters like the F-22, however Japan never acquired the aircraft due to export restrictions. Although the JASDF never purchased the F-22, this model asks the question: What might a Japanese Raptor look like? Wearing the blue camouflage colors typical of JASDF aircraft, this model represents a ficticious F-22J Raptor.

Lockheed F-22J Raptor
Designed to meet a US Air Force requirement for an Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) to replace the F-15 Eagle, the F-22 was first flown on September 29th, 1990. The USAF's ATF program aimed to produce a fifth-generation air superiority fighter that would be better matched against emerging new aircraft such as the Su-27 Flanker. The F-22 uses stealth technology and can function in air superiority, ground attack, intelligence and electronic warfare roles. Despite its capabilities, the F-22 program was relatively short-lived; by 2010 its high cost coupled with the development of the F-35 (a more versatile and less expensive aircraft) led to a cessation of F-22 production funding.

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.