Panavia Tornado ECR

Luftwaffe TaktLwG 51 Immelmann, 46+38, Beja AB, Portugal, NATO Tiger Meet 2025

HM 1:72 HA6733

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. In 2025 the Tiger Meet was held at Beja Air Base, Portugal. The Luftwaffe sent several Tornados to the event, including this ECR variant from Taktisches Luftwaffengeschwader 51 with a special Desert Tiger theme paint scheme.

Panavia Tornado ECR

Designed in collaboration with Britain, West Germany and Italy, the Tornado was first flown on August 14th, 1974 and is thought by many to be the most important military aircraft in Western European history. Nicknamed "The Flying Fin" because of its large tail fin, the Tornado has a variable wing sweep design and is capable of taking off and landing on short airstrips. It is equipped with terrain-following radar, which allows for hands-off, low-level flight in any weather. There are three primary versions: an electronic combat/reconnaissance version, an interceptor and a highly versatile strike fighter-bomber capable of carrying almost all of NATO's air-launched weapons.

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.