1/72 F/A-18E Super Hornet 166608 flown by Capt Scott Stearney VFA-143 "Pukin Dogs" 2009

The McDonnell Douglas Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet is a twin-engine multi-role carrier-based aircraft. The “E” variant is single-seater while the “F” variant is a tandem-seat configuration. The “E” is a much larger, more advanced and more capable variant of the F/A-18C. The Super variant can carry a larger array of weapons as well as more of them and is capable of returning to the carrier while still carrying unspent munitions, a big savings in dollars. The first F/A-18E flight was in 1995 and began delivery to the USN in 1999.

Commissioned in 1949 as VF-871 “Griffins” and eventually became VFA-143 “Pukin” Dogs”. In 2005 VF-143 was re-equipped with the F/A-18E Super Hornet and became Strike Fighter Squadron VFA-143. Between 2009 and 2013 VFA-143 was assigned to the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. In 2009 USS Dwight D. Eisenhower deployed for 6 months fighting enemy in Afghanistan. F/A-18E 166608 was the CAG aircraft assigned to Captain Scott Stearney but on November 18, 2009 this aircraft was flown by Commander Joe Barnes who completed his 1,000th arrested recovery.

Features:

- Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.

- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.

- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.

- Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.

- Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear.

- Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".

- Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.

- Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.