This is an injection-plastic jet aircraft model kit.
West Germany adopted the F-104 interceptor fighter in large numbers, valuing its bomb-carrying capacity and its capability for low-altitude attack missions. A total of 916 of this aircraft were operated, comprising 749 F/RF-104G variants alongside the two-seat F-104 trainers. In addition to tactical low-altitude bombing, these aircraft incorporated unique design modifications that enabled them to carry U.S.-controlled nuclear weapons, and to employ anti-ship weaponry -- a capability specifically envisioned for operations against the Soviet Navy.
However, given Germany's mountainous terrain and notoriously changeable weather conditions, the F-104 suffered from a high frequency of crashes; this resulted in heavy losses, with 292 aircraft destroyed in accidents. Consequently, the aircraft's operational protocols and training regimens faced intense criticism from veteran officers, including former ace pilots. As a remedial measure, and spearheaded by the very officers who had previously voiced concerns regarding the aircraft's inherent risks, a specialized "Europeanization" training program was formulated and implemented, leading to a significant reduction in accident rates.
This model kit from Fine Molds faithfully recreates the F-104G variant as operated by the West German Air Force. Distinguishing it from the F-104J variant, this kit features newly tooled parts to accurately depict specific modifications: a revised engine nozzle shape; the addition of VHF antennas on the upper fuselage and lower nose sections; the installation of navigation lights on both the upper and lower fuselage; the replacement of the original ejection seat with the Mk.GQ7 model, and the use of a different tire configuration. The included decal sheet features markings for aircraft belonging to the 33rd Fighter-Bomber Wing (JaboG 33) and the 34th Fighter-Bomber Wing (JaboG 34).
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- [Includes]: Decals for 2 versions
