Celebrate one of the most recognizable commemorative F-14 Tomcats with this Grumman F-14A Tomcat VF-124 Bicentennial 1976 1/72 Diecast Aircraft by Hobby Master.
Representing F-14A Bureau Number 159616, this highly detailed model recreates the aircraft in the special red, white, and blue Bicentennial markings worn while assigned to Fighter Squadron 124 (VF-124) in 1976. The patriotic scheme commemorated the 200th anniversary of the United States and created a particularly distinctive appearance for the already iconic Tomcat.
Produced in Hobby Master's collectible Air Power Series, the model combines substantial diecast construction with detailed markings, removable ordnance, landing gear options, an opening canopy, pilot figure, and display stand.
Model Features
- 1/72 scale diecast aircraft model
- Hobby Master Air Power Series
- Grumman F-14A Tomcat
- VF-124 Bicentennial Scheme
- Represents aircraft BuNo 159616
- 1976 United States Bicentennial markings
- Detailed exterior
- True-to-scale detailing
- Opening canopy
- Includes pilot figure
- Detachable ordnance loads
- Detachable landing gear
- Includes display stand
- Officially licensed product
- Diecast metal and plastic construction
- Manufacturer's original unopened packaging
- Approximately 10.25 inches long
- Approximately 10.75-inch wingspan
History of the F-14A Tomcat
Developed by Grumman for the United States Navy, the F-14 Tomcat became one of the defining naval fighters of the Cold War era. Its unmistakable appearance came in large part from its variable-sweep wings, which could change position to accommodate different flight conditions.
The F-14 was designed as both a fleet-defense interceptor and an air-superiority fighter. Its combination of powerful radar, long-range missile capability, twin engines, and variable-geometry wings made it one of the most sophisticated carrier-based fighters of its generation.
The F-14A entered U.S. Navy operational service during the 1970s and ultimately became one of the most recognizable military aircraft ever flown from an American aircraft carrier.
The VF-124 Bicentennial Tomcat
The aircraft represented by this model wore a special Bicentennial color scheme in 1976, when the United States celebrated the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Rather than the comparatively restrained operational markings normally associated with fleet aircraft, this Tomcat incorporated prominent red, white, and blue accents, creating a dramatic commemorative appearance.
VF-124, known as the Gunfighters, played an important role in introducing naval aviators and radar intercept officers to the F-14 Tomcat. That makes this model particularly interesting: it represents not simply an F-14 in unusual markings, but an aircraft connected with the Navy's transition into the Tomcat era.
Did You Know?
One of the F-14 Tomcat's signature characteristics was its variable-sweep wing system. The wings could sweep rearward for high-speed flight and move forward when greater lift was advantageous at lower speeds.
This capability produced the dramatically different silhouettes associated with the Tomcat and helped the aircraft operate across the demanding range of speeds required of a carrier-based fighter.
The F-14 also became famous for its pairing with the long-range AIM-54 Phoenix missile, giving the Navy the ability to engage threats at considerable distances from the carrier group.
