McDonnell Douglas F-15A Eagle

USAF 36th TFW, 53rd TFS, no. 75-0053, Bitburg AFB, Germany

NATO Tiger Meet 1981

Hobby Master 1:72 HA4580

The NATO Association of Tiger Squadrons was esablished in 1961 to promote solidarity between NATO air forces. Each year, it holds a "Tiger Meet" to give member nations an opportunity to train together in simulated battle over the skies of Europe. As well as being opportunities for NATO air forces to share ideas and experiences, the meets are also public relations exercises and participating squadrons often decorate their aircraft with elaborate tiger-striped paint schemes.

The USAF 53rd Tactical Fighter Squadron hosted the 1981 Tiger Meet at Bitburg Air Force Base, Germany. The squadron decorated one of their F-15A Eagles, #75-0053, with colorful tiger-stiped tails and a small tiger's head on the nose.

Boeing F-15A Eagle

Designed to meet US Air Force requirements for an air superiority fighter to replace the F-4 Phantom, the F-15 Eagle first flew on July 27, 1972. Following reviews of proposals, the United States Air Force selected McDonnell Douglas's design in 1969 to meet the service's need for a dedicated air superiority fighter. Since entering service in 1976, it is among the most successful modern fighters, with over 100 victories and no losses in aerial combat, with the majority of the kills by the Israeli Air Force.

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.