{"product_id":"preorderfree-shipping-boeing-ea-18g-growler-166856-vx-9-us-navy-2008-hm-172-ha5154","title":"(Preorder) Boeing EA-18G Growler 166856, VX-9, US Navy 2008  \/ HM 1:72 HA5154","description":"\u003ch1\u003eBoeing EA-18G Growler 166856, VX-9, US Navy 2008\u003c\/h1\u003e\u003ch1\u003eHobby Master 1:72 HA5154\u003c\/h1\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eBoeing EA-18G Growler BuNo 166856 of VX-9 “Vampires,” represented in 2008\u003c\/strong\u003e, takes collectors back to the early years of an aircraft that would transform \u003cstrong\u003eairborne electronic warfare for the U.S. Navy\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDeveloped from the \u003cstrong\u003eF\/A-18F Super Hornet\u003c\/strong\u003e, the EA-18G was created to replace the legendary \u003cstrong\u003eEA-6B Prowler\u003c\/strong\u003e. Rather than serving as a conventional fighter, its primary mission is to \u003cstrong\u003edetect, identify, locate, and jam hostile radar and communications systems\u003c\/strong\u003e, while retaining the performance and self-defense capabilities of its Super Hornet heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAircraft \u003cstrong\u003e166856\u003c\/strong\u003e is represented with \u003cstrong\u003eVX-9 “Vampires,” Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Nine\u003c\/strong\u003e. This specialized U.S. Navy unit plays a vital role in the operational evaluation of new aircraft, weapons, sensors, and mission systems before they are introduced on a larger scale to frontline squadrons.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e2008 configuration\u003c\/strong\u003e is particularly significant, representing the Growler during the period leading up to operational service. Testing helped validate its electronic warfare systems and equipment for future \u003cstrong\u003eSuppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD)\u003c\/strong\u003e missions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Growler is easily distinguished by its specialized wingtip electronic receivers and its ability to carry powerful \u003cstrong\u003eelectronic jamming pods\u003c\/strong\u003e, along with missiles for self-defense and attacks against hostile radar systems. This unique combination allows it to accompany strike aircraft directly into heavily defended airspace.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRecreated in \u003cstrong\u003e1:72 scale by Hobby Master\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eHA5154\u003c\/strong\u003e captures this important chapter in EA-18G development with the distinctive markings of the \u003cstrong\u003eVX-9 “Vampires,”\u003c\/strong\u003e making it especially appealing to collectors of test aircraft and electronic warfare platforms.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAn early Growler, the legendary VX-9 Vampires, and an important chapter in the evolution of modern U.S. Navy electronic warfare—all captured in one outstanding model\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color:#0000ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHobby Master \"1:72 Air Power Series\" diecast airplanes feature:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMolded metal construction with plastic components.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRealistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInscriptions and posters printed with a stamp that do not fade or fall off like decals.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eopening of awnings, revealing detailed within the cockpit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExtended \/ retracted interchangeable landing gear.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDisplay stand to display the aircraft \"in flight\".\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAuthentic detachable artillery cargoes complete with placards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Hobby Master","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49731324412059,"sku":"HA5154","price":218.89,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0657\/9214\/7611\/files\/78878.jpg?v=1791919524","url":"https:\/\/passiondiecast.com\/products\/preorderfree-shipping-boeing-ea-18g-growler-166856-vx-9-us-navy-2008-hm-172-ha5154","provider":"Passion Diecast","version":"1.0","type":"link"}