Hobby Master HA1002 1:72 USAF F-104C "Pussy Cat"

Hobby Master HA1002 1:72 USAF F-104C "Pussy Cat", 435th TFS Lt. Joe Nevers Squadron Commander Udorn AFB, Thailand

The F-104C that Hobby Master concentrated on has a long and varied existence. Built by Lockheed and first assigned as FG-910 to 479th TFW 434th TFS “Red Devils”,
George AFB, CA. In 1960 it was re-assigned to the 479th TFW, 436th TFS “Black Aces”
Moron AB, Spain. From 1966 –1967 it served with 435th TFS “Screaming Eagles” at
Udorn RTAFB, Thailand. One of the pilots that flew this particular aircraft was Squadron Commander Lt. Joe Nevers and the F-104 was adorned with the nose art “Pussy Cat”, which was located on the starboard side of the fuselage only. From 1967 – 1975 the serial number became “0-60910” with the 198th TFS PR ANG, Muniz ANGB, San Juan Puerto Rico. In August 1975 the plane was transferred to Lowry AFB, Colorado for preservation. In 1997 it was on the move again this time it was put on display at Wings Over The Rockies Aviation Museum, Denver CO.

From one of the most significant periods of modern U.S. history, the Vietnam War, comes the Lockheed F-104C. Throughout their stay they flew over 5,290 sorties on bombing and escort missions. The F-104Cs turned out not to be what the USAF needed for this war so they were replaced by the F-4D Phantom. Hobby Master has captured every fine line and detail of this sleek plane. Starting with a canopy that can be displayed closed or opened, you will also find two Sidewinder missiles, detachable fuel tank and landing gear that can be changed between the up or down position. Even their unique “tripod head” stand has been made more rigid for those that want to display in this manner. Superbly finished in the 3 tone camouflage of the Vietnam War this makes a stunning addition to any collection.