Republic F-105F Thunderchief

USAF 355th TFW, 354th TFS, 63-8331 Red River Showboat, Takhli RTAFB, Thailand

Hobby Master 1:72 HA2523

The F-105 Thunderchief, nicknamed "Red River Showboat," was a prominent fighter-bomber aircraft used extensively by the United States Air Force (USAF) during the Vietnam War. Assigned to various squadrons, including the 354th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS), the F-105 gained renown for its role in conducting high-speed, low-altitude bombing missions over North Vietnam. The nickname "Red River Showboat" reflected its distinctive red tail markings and its operational base near the Red River in Thailand. Despite its vulnerability to enemy defenses, the F-105's rugged design and heavy payload capacity made it a vital asset in USAF's efforts to disrupt enemy logistics and infrastructure.

Republic F-105F Thunderchief

Designed as a replacement for the F-84F Thuderstreak, the F-105 first flew on October 2, 1955. This Mach-2 capable aircraft was used for strike bombing during the Vietnam War. It was armed with a cannon and missiles and was also designed to carry a nuclear weapon. The single-seat F-105 was the largest single-engine fighter ever to serve with the USAF, and could deliver a greater bomb load than any of the 10-man strategic bombers that served during WWII. Despite these impressive statistics, the F-105 was also the only US aircraft in history to be removed from combat because of high rates of attrition.

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.