Lockheed F-16AM Fighting Falcon

RNLAF 312 Sqn, J-197, Volkel AB, Netherlands, F-16 Retirement 2024

Hobby Master 1:72 HA38054

In 2024, the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) retired its iconic F-16 Fighting Falcon after more than four decades of service. The F-16 had been a cornerstone of Dutch air power since its introduction in the late 1970s, excelling in air-to-air combat, ground attack, and peacekeeping missions worldwide. Its retirement marked the end of an era, as the RNLAF transitioned to the advanced F-35 Lightning II for modern multi-role operations. A farewell ceremony honored the F-16's legacy, celebrating its contributions to national defense and NATO missions, and recognizing the dedication of the pilots and crews who operated it.

Lockheed F-16AM Fighting Falcon

Designed by General Dynamics as a lightweight, daytime USAF air-combat fighter, the F-16 was first flown on January 20th, 1974. This single-engine, supersonic aircraft has, over the years, evolved into a multirole aircraft. It has a frameless bubble canopy-giving its pilot superior visibility-and it uses advanced aerodynamics. The F-16 was one of the first designs to use a relaxed static stability/fly-by-wire system, which helps it pull 9-g maneuvers and achieve speeds of more than Mach 2. Called "Viper" by its pilots, the F-16 is considered one of the most successful aircraft designs of the Cold War, with 4,400+ aircraft built since 1976.

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.