(Preorder)

Lockheed F-22A Raptor

USAF 477th FG, 302nd FS, no. 07-4147 Spirit of Tuskegee, Elmendorf AFB, AK 2013

Hobby Master 1:72 HA2824

In 2013, F-22A #07-4147 became 477th Fighter Group's flagship with the words "Spirit of Tuskegee" painted across the tail, a nod to the units Tuskegee Airmen heritage. "We are part of history. Whether we realize it or not, what we do on a day to day basis is writing the pages of history," said, Col. Tyler Otten, 477th Fighter Group commander, who was the first pilot to fly the group's flagship after the paint job. "Maintaining our connection to our lineage provides a foundation on which we build. The Tuskegee heritage of the 477th is rich with courage, service and commitment, which serves as a guide to our efforts today." The 477th Fighter Group was previously the 477th Bombardment Group, a Tuskegee unit activated in 1944. The group's 302nd Fighter Squadron historically was part of the 332nd Fighter Group, also known as "The Redtails" the famous all-black unit that fought both American prejudice and the axis powers in Europe.

Lockheed F-22A 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.