Northrop T-38C Talon

USAF 14th FTW, 50th FTS Strikin' Snakes, no.70-1576, Columbus AGB, MS, 2009

Hobby Master 1:72 HA5408

The 49th first came into existence in 1941 as the 49th Pursuit Squadron and in 1949 was inactivated. In 1952 the unit was re-activated as the 49th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron and once again inactivated in 1987 reactivated in 1990 as the 49th Flying Training Squadron. Located at Columbus AFB, Mississippi their mission is to conduct the advanced phase of undergraduate pilot training and basic procedures and techniques for fighters. In 2003 their name was changed to 49th Fighter Training Squadron to make it more mission related.

The 50th Flying Training Squadron is part of the 14th Flying Training Wing based at Columbus AFB, Mississippi. They have been conducting pilot training since 1972. Like the 49th FTS also based at Columbus, their mission is to apply advanced training to undergraduate pilots. The students put in 37 hours of simulator, 69 sorties in the T-38C comprising 96.9 hours. They learn tactics, maneuvers and tactical navigation. Upon a successful completion they earn their pilots wings.

Northrop T-38C Talon

Designed as a supersonic jet trainer to replace the T-33, the T-38 was based on the F-5 Freedom Fighter airframe and was first flown on March 10th, 1959. The pressurized tandem-seat cockpit offers excellent visibility for both student and instructor and provides a comfortable training environment. Being both lightweight and nimble, the T-38 is used extensively to prepare military pilots for high performance jet aircraft and has earned the nickname "White Rocket". The T-38 was famously flown by the USAF Thunderbirds air demonstration squadron during the 1970s and proved popular with NASA who use it as an astronaut trainer and chase-plane.

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:

• 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.