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1/48 F-14D Tomcat, VF-31 last cruise 2005/6.


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Hello all,

 

Here is my recently completed 1/48 Tamiya F-14D Tomcat, in the markings of VF-31 'Tomcatters' during their last cruise with the 'cat in 2005/6. The build thread is here

 

Marked as BuNo 164603, which was the second to last F-14 built, being delivered to VF-124 'Gunfighters' in May 1992. The jet was assigned to VF-2 'Bounty Hunters' in 1993 before being transferred to VF-213 'Black Lions' in 1997. During her tenure with the latter, the jet led the first manned strike missions into Afghanistan during Operation 'Enduring Freedom' on 7th October 2001. The following year, the jet was transferred to VF-101 'Grim Reapers', remaining there until summer 2003 when it was acquired by VF-31 and marked as 'Felix 101', completing a further 2 cruises with the 'Tomcatters.' The jet was the last US Navy F-14 to fly, when on 4th October 2006 it flew from NAS Oceana to Farmingdale, New York before eventually becoming a memorial at the Grumman factory in Bethpage, New York.

 

Extras used included Fightertown decals, Quickboost seat, Eduard canopy mirrors and a Master brass pitot tube.  Paints are from MRP and weathered with a mixture of Flory models wash, Mig Ammo oils and dry brushing. The Tamiya kit is an absolute joy to build.

 

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I didn't add too much weathering to the wing sweep area as it will be displayed with the wings folded up, but here's a couple with wings forward:

 

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On my trusty carrier display base:

 

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With my VF-213 jet, also from the last cruise:

 

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Thanks for looking.

 

Cheers

 

Dave

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Top job, your depiction of panel lines, vents and general wear and tear and weathering is very realistic. Easy to over do but you have it spot on!

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