Academy – 12590 – USN F-14D VF-2 Bounty Hunters

Description:

The Academy Hobby Model Kits 1/72 scale F-14D Tomcat, kit number 12590, representing the iconic VF-2 “Bounty Hunters” squadron, is a solid and visually impressive offering for modelers interested in modern U.S. Navy aviation. The tooling is sharp, with fine recessed panel lines and crisp molding that reflect the angular and muscular look of the Tomcat. Academy has paid attention to details like the cockpit tub, landing gear, and exhaust nozzles, though as is often the case in this scale, some areas—like the ejection seats and instrument panels—benefit greatly from aftermarket upgrades or careful painting. One of the strong points of this kit is the overall fit, which is generally excellent, making it a smooth build even for intermediate modelers. The kit also includes options for open or closed canopy, positionable airbrakes, and a decent loadout of air-to-air missiles, including AIM-9s and AIM-54 Phoenix, staying faithful to the Tomcat’s original air superiority role.

The specific boxing for the VF-2 “Bounty Hunters” adds an extra layer of appeal, especially for fans of U.S. Navy squadrons. The decals are sharp, in-register, and provide markings for a late-service F-14D, with the signature skull-and-crossbones tail flash and high-visibility markings. VF-2 was one of the last operational squadrons to fly the Tomcat before the type was retired in 2006, and it participated in combat operations over Iraq and Afghanistan. The “Bounty Hunters” were known not only for their distinctive livery but also for their operational effectiveness, making this scheme a great choice for both display and historical accuracy.

The real F-14D Tomcat was the most advanced variant of the legendary Grumman swing-wing interceptor. Equipped with General Electric F110 engines and a modernized digital avionics suite, the D-model addressed many of the reliability issues found in earlier versions. It also introduced the AN/APG-71 radar and compatibility with newer weapons like the LANTIRN targeting pod, expanding the aircraft’s role into precision ground attack. Though its silhouette remained largely unchanged, the F-14D was far more capable than the A and B models it succeeded. Academy’s representation of the D variant does a commendable job of capturing these differences, including the distinctive dual exhausts and modernized under-nose sensor fairings. While some minor tweaks might be needed to fully match a specific VF-2 airframe—especially depending on the exact time period modeled—the kit is overall a satisfying build straight from the box.

For fans of the F-14 and its cinematic or operational legacy, this kit offers a balanced mix of accuracy, buildability, and display value. While perhaps not as intricate as the newer Fine Molds offerings or as detailed as some resin-enhanced builds, Academy’s 1/72 F-14D remains a solid and accessible representation of one of the most iconic naval fighters of the jet age, and the VF-2 markings only make it more desirable.

Note this kit is an update of kit Academy Hobby Models – 12563 – USN F-14A VF-143 “Pukin Dogs” tooled in 2019, a new tooled Academy F-14 kit replacing the aged Academy-Minicraft kit from 1988 (Academy Hobby Models – 12471 – F-14A). The other release based in the new molds is Academy – 12578 – USN F-14B VF-103 Jolly Rogers.