Boeing EA-18G Growler

USN VAQ-139 Cougars, NA500, NAS Whidbey Island, WA, 2025

Hobby Master 1:72 HA5160

VAQ-139 "Cougars" operates the EA-18G Growler from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington. Assigned to Carrier Air Wing Seventeen (CVW-17), they deploy aboard the USS Nimitz (CVN-68), focusing on electronic warfare missions. The EA-18G's advanced jamming systems disrupt enemy radar and communications, ensuring air superiority and protection for strike packages in contested environments. VAQ-139 regularly participates in exercises and real-world operations, including deployments in the Indo-Pacific region. Under skilled leadership, the squadron maintains high readiness and proficiency, playing a crucial role in U.S. Navy efforts to dominate electromagnetic battlespaces and support carrier strike group missions worldwide.

Boeing EA-18G Growler

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.

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.