McDonnell Douglas F-4D Phantom II

USAF 138th FIG, 179th FIS, no. 66-5608, Duluth ANGB, MN, 1984

Hobby Master 1:72  HA19077

The 179th Fighter Interceptor Squadron (179th FIS) of the Minnesota Air National Guard, based at Duluth International Airport, operated the F-4D Phantom II in 1984. Tasked with air defense and interception, the squadron protected the upper Midwest and northern U.S. airspace during the Cold War. Equipped with AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, the F-4D provided supersonic interception capabilities. In the late 1980s, the 179th FIS transitioned to the F-16A Fighting Falcon, modernizing its air defense role. Today, its successor, the 148th Fighter Wing, continues operations with the F-16C Block 50 as a key component of Air National Guard air defense.

McDonnell Douglas F-4D Phantom II

Designed as a fleet defense fighter for the US Navy, the F-4 Phantom was first flown on May 27, 1958. This twin-engine, long-range all-weather fighter/bomber proved highly adaptable and served in the Marine Corps and the US Air Force as well as in the Navy. During the Vietnam War, it was the principal air superiority fighter for the Navy and the Air Force and was also used for reconnaissance and ground attack. The Phantom continued to serve well into the 1970s and 1980s and even flew missions during the first Gulf War. Finally phased out by the F-14, F-16 and F/A-18, the Phantom was retired in 1996.

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.