McDonnell Douglas CF-188A Hornet 

"Canada Special Marking 2012" / RCAF demonstration team

Hobby Master: 1/72 HA3557

Limited Edition of 600 Pieces 

McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet

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.

In 2012 RCAF CF-188A #781 (US registry 188781) MSN 0556/A464 was selected to receive the special paint scheme to represent Canada’s Demo aircraft for that season. The aircraft paint theme was “The True North, Strong and Free” and flown by Captain Patrick "Paco" Gobeil, a former Snowbird Demonstration team member.

Images on the aircraft depict the Arctic with 13 snowflakes to represent Canada’s 13 provinces and territories. Also shown are Northern Lights, Canada’s Maple Leaf, a polar bear and an Arctic hunter.

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:

• Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.

• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.

• Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.

• Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.

• Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear.

• Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".

• Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.

• Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.