Product Info:

The multi-purpose aircraft first entered service with the U.S. Navy in 1974, replacing the F-4 Phantom II on the USS Enterprise. Until its 2006 retirement, the F-14 was perhaps the most versatile and rugged modern fighter in America’s fleet, also performing aerial reconnaissance and defense interceptor duties.

This 1:72 scale, newly-tooled, die cast model pays tribute to the VF-211 “Fighting Checkmates”—among the first aviation units to fly the new Tomcats—and their 2004 transition aboard the USS Enterprise. As always, this model includes numerous premium features we’ve come to expect from one of the industry leaders, such as engraved panel lines, a sliding canopy, a well-equipped and fully-detailed cockpit, and optional-position landing gear.

Historical Note:  

The Grumman F-14 Tomcat is a supersonic, twin-engine, two-seat, variable-sweep wing fighter aircraft. The Tomcat was developed for the United States Navy's Naval Fighter Experimental (VFX) program following the collapse of the F-111B project. The F-14 was the first of the American teen-series fighters, which were designed incorporating the experience of air combatagainst MiG fighters during the Vietnam War.

The F-14 first flew in December 1970 and made its first deployment in 1974 with the U.S. Navy aboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65), replacing the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II. The F-14 served as the U.S. Navy's primary maritime air superiority fighter, fleet defense interceptor and tactical aerial reconnaissance platform. In the 1990s, it added the Low Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared for Night (LANTIRN) pod system and began performing precision ground-attack missions.

The Tomcat was retired from the U.S. Navy's active fleet on 22 September 2006, having been supplanted by the Boeing F/A-18E and F Super Hornets. The F-14 remains in service with theIslamic Republic of Iran Air Force, having been exported to Iran in 1976, when the U.S. had amicable diplomatic relations with Iran.

Info: Grumman F-14A Tomcat Diecast Model U.S. Navy USS Enterprise (CVN-65) VF-211 "Fighting Checkmates" CO, 2004