F-14A Tomcat 'VF-211 Fighting Checkmates' - 1:72 Hasegawa

[woody37]

F-14A Tomcat ‘VF-211 Fighting Checkmates’

1:72 Hasegawa Limited Edition

The Tomcat doesn’t need much of an introduction and as well as its popularity in aviation communities, it was immortalised in the film ‘Top Gun’ which I suspect did more for US Naval recruitment than any advertising campaign could ever achieve! First going into deployment in 1974 to replace the F-4 Phantom as the US Navy’s air superiority fighter, it remained in that role until finally being retired in 2006. Although primarily in the air defence / intercept role, in the 90’s it was upgraded to operate in the ground attack role increasing its versatility significantly and providing a stop gap until the F/A-18’s replaced it. The F-14 has been involved in combat operations on many occasions. As well as a hugely successful service in the Iranian Air force, with the US Navy, it’s also fought in the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts where, although one was lost to an SA-2 SAM, none have been lost in air-air combat, quite an incredible feat. That said, it’s service has been scarred by over 150 accidental losses whilst operating at sea. Throughout it’s life, the F-14 was continually upgraded, the most notable improvements being uprated engines, improved radar and avionics.

The kit

The kit included in this pack is the same plastic as the recently reviewed Iranian Tomcat review I did, so rather than repeat myself, I’ve included a link to that review:

HERE

Note, unfortunately, no weapons are included in the set. The instructions recommend the purchase of Hasegawa Weapons set III.

The decals

VF-211 operated the Tomcat from 1975 to 2005. In the 30 year service, they operated off the carriers USS Constellation, Ranger, Kitty Hawk, Nimitz, John C Stennis and Enterprise. In 2002, the squadron flew 1250 sorties in just three weeks in support of Operation Anaconda where they dropped around 50 tons of ordnance in the ground attack role. They retired from service with VF-211 at NAS Oceana.

Included are two of VF-211’s colourful schemes:

• 161856 aboard USS Constellation 1997 with the striking red / green tail emblems and chequered fins
• 161856 aboard USS Constellation 1998 with alternative emblems and red/white chequered fins

As expected, the decals are sharp in print and register, although a slight difference in the position of the red cockpit 'cheat line' is evident when comparing the two sides against the main black colour (the low vis ones are fine). A large selection of cockpit panel decals are included if you prefer this method of detailing your cockpits too. A suitable but not over the top set of stencils make up the sheet.

Conclusion

It’s good to see Hasegawa releasing kits with alternative decal options. As covered in the Iranian Tomcat review, it is indeed a superb kit, although disappointing that you have to purchase weapons separately.

Review sample courtesy of
UK distributors for