1:48 F-14A Tomcat (U.S. Navy Carrier Borne Fighter)

F-14A Tomcat (US Navy carrier-borne fighter) 1:48 — Hasegawa

An injection-molded plastic kit of the American carrier fighter Grumman F-14A Tomcat in 1:48 scale from the Japanese firm Hasegawa. The model offers finely engraved panel texture, a detailed cockpit with figures of the pilot and the weapon systems officer, photo-etched parts for the canopy frame and wheels with metal parts added. A number of items can be built in optional positions: the movable wing, the flaps, the slats, the canopy, the speed brakes and the exhaust nozzles. The decals cover several famous Navy squadrons.

The real subject

The Grumman F-14 Tomcat was a two-seat carrier fighter of the US Navy with a variable-geometry wing. It was created to defend carrier task forces at long range, for which it used a powerful radar and long-range missiles. The characteristic wing sweep allowed both high speed and good agility at lower speeds. The A version was the first production variant and became an icon of naval aviation.

Building and painting tips

Separate the parts with a sharp knife and glue them with liquid cement for plastic, and the photo-etched parts with cyanoacrylate glue (super glue). Apply a primer before painting and spray the scheme with an airbrush in thin coats. Mask the glazing and pick out the panel lines with a subtle wash. The movable wing can be built either spread or swept.

Who the model is for

• For enthusiasts of American carrier aviation
• For modelers with experience of building jet fighters in 1:48
• For collectors of legendary Cold War machines
• For lovers of aircraft with a movable wing

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.