Description

This out of production Hobby Master diecast model of the Lockheed F-104S Starfighter is a must-have for any collector or enthusiast of military aircraft. The 1:72 scale model features the Aeronautica Militare Italiana 9 Stormo, Grazzanise, Italy theme and comes with a stand and unopened box. Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series HA1006 Italian Air Force F-104S/ASA-M MM6930 9-99, 9 Stormo, 10 Gruppo, Grazzanise, Italy Special red paint scheme to commemorate the last Italian AF operational F-104 as well as the last operational F-104 in the world. Italy and Lockheed developed an improved F-104G, the F-104S (Super). The new variant had an advanced weapons system for AIM-7 missiles, deleted M61 cannon, new engine, stronger airframe, 2 additional ventral fins and 2 additional under wing pylons for AIM-7 missiles. The “S” variant was updated twice, the “ASA” (Aggiornamento Sistema d’Armi - meaning Weapon System Update) look-down/shoot-down air-superiority fighter) and the “ASA-M” (Aggiornamento Sistema d’Arma-Modificato, Weapon System Update- Modified). By 1984 electronic miniaturization allowed the ASA update that meant 2/3s of the 205- plane fleet had the M61 cannon re-installed, new navigation systems, avionics and missiles. In 2003 to celebrate the last Starfighter in Italian service and being the last operational F- 104 in the world, F-104S/ASA-M c/n: 783-1230 s/n MM6930 was stripped of all weapons and pylons and painted Ducati red. The Ducati Motorcycle Company paid for an air show to celebrate the F-104 in Italian service and the pilot was a Ducati fan so the plane was numbered 9 99 after Ducati’s new super bike model “999”. The “Prancing Horse” has been the insignia of the 91st Italian Squadriglia and made famous by WWI Ace Francesco Baracca who was killed during WWI. The model is recommended for ages 14. Add this exceptional piece to your collection today.