Douglas A-4K Skyhawk “Lizard Scheme” NZ6201, 2 Squadron, RNZAF, New Zealand, 1987 Hobby Master HA1440

Douglas A-4K Skyhawk “Lizard Scheme” NZ6201, 2 Squadron, RNZAF, New Zealand, 1987 Hobby Master HA1440
Hobby Master detailed die cast model
Scale: 1:72

approx W 11.6 x L 17 x H 6.3 cm 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., with stand, with landing gear Professionally painted
Great attention to detail
All markings are Tampoed (pad applied)
Option to display the model on a stand that is provided
Model can be shown with the landing gear in the down or up positions
Optional armament has been provided
Canopy displays open or closed
Extremely heavy metal with a minimum of plastic
Highly collectable

Designed to replace the antiquated, propeller-driven AD Skyraider, the A-4 Skyhawk was first flown on June 22, 1954. Douglas exceeded the original design requirements by delivering a carrier-capable aircraft that was only half the Navy's weight specification and so compact that it did not need folding wings. The A-4 was the first to use "buddy" air-to-air refueling (an A-4 could refuel other aircraft of the same type), which was helpful when operating in remote locations where dedicated tankers were impractical. The A-4 served the US Navy until 2003 and remained the preferred warplane for the Marine Corps until the 1980s, even after the introduction of the A-7 Corsair II.

VMA-142 “Flying Gators” was established in 1942 as VMSB-142, deactivated in 1945 only to be reactivated in July 1946 as VMF-142. In 1990 they became VMFA-142. In the early 1970’s the squadron was first equipped with the A-4L before transitioning to the A-4F. The A-4F was ordered in 1965 and differed from the previous A-4E with the addition of steerable nose wheels, wing lift spoilers and upgraded ejection seats. The A-4F also had the hump-back dorsal and bent re-fuel probe. In the 1980s the unit began transitioning to the AV-8B Harrier.


A-4E Skyhawk Specifications
Engine:
1 x Pratt & Whitney J52-P-6A turbojet, 8500 lb. Thrust