Hobby 2000 – H2K72074 – F-8E Crusader “Marines”

Description:

Unassembled plastic model kit in 1/72 scale of a U.S. Vought F-8 Crusader supersonic carrier based air-superiority fighter developed in the 50s and in service till 80s in the photo-reconnaissance variants.

The F-8E variant featured a J57-P-20A engine and a larger nose cone housing the AN/APQ-94 radar. It included a dorsal hump between the wings for AGM-12 Bullpup missile electronics and boasted an increased payload capacity of 5,000 lb (2,270 kg). Equipped with a Martin-Baker ejection seat, it replaced the AN/APQ-83 radar found in earlier F-8D models. Additionally, an IRST sensor blister (round ball) was installed in front of the canopy. The maiden flight occurred on June 30, 1961, with a total of 286 units built.

Repack of Academy kit (Academy Hobby Models – 12521 – USN F-8E VF-162 “The Hunters”) with a new decal sheet printed by Cartograf and paint mask. Decal sheet markings:

• F-8E CRUSADER, Bu.No. 149146, Lt. Cdr. Tim Hubbard, VF-211 “FIGHTING CHECKMATES”, September 1967
• F-8E CRUSADER, Bu.No. 150926, Lt. Cdr. John B. Nichols III, VF-191 “SATAN’S KITTENS”, July 9, 1968