Grumman F-14B Tomcat, VF-143 “Pukin Dogs” USS John F. Kennedy 2002, 1:72 Scale Diecast Model

• Air Power Series
• Highly detailed realistic collectible model
• Diecast & plastic parts
• Display stand included with interchangeable landing gear.
• Opening canopy with detailed cockpit, detachable ordnance loads.
• Measures 10.25” L x 10.75” Wingspan
• Box dimensions: 12.0” L x 12.0” L x 4.2” H
• Display model, recommended for hobbyists and collectors 14 years and above.

The Grumman F-14 Tomcat is an American supersonic, twin-engine, two-seat, twin-tail, variable-sweep wing fighter aircraft. It was the first such American jet fighter with twin tails. The Tomcat was developed for the United States Navy's Naval Fighter Experimental (VFX) program. The F-14 was the first of the American Teen Series fighters, which were designed incorporating air combat experience against MiG fighters during the Vietnam War. The name “Tomcat” is said to come from the call-sign used by Vice Admiral Thomas Connolly which conformed to the USN tradition of giving Grumman aircraft feline names.

The F-14 first flew on 21 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 into the 1990s. The Low Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared for Night (LANTIRN) pod system were added in the 1990s and the Tomcat began performing precision ground-attack missions.

This highly detailed Hobby Master model is a replica of F-14B AG100 from VF-143 “Pukin Dogs”. In March 2002 VF-143 "Pukin Dogs" sailed on board the USS John F. Kennedy as part of CVW-7 with a mission to support Operation Enduring Freedom and returned home in August. Their next deployment was on board the USS George Washington in 2004 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. 2005 saw the unit transition to the new F/A-18 Super Hornet and this required a designation change to VFA-143. "Pukin Dogs" is believed to be a comment made when the Griffin logo was first viewed, the drooping head and open mouth, "it looks like a puking dog".

As with most Hobby Master models this F-14B features engraved panel lines, antennas, surface details an opening canopy, a well-appointed cockpit, full weapons complement, optional-position landing gear, authentic pad printed squadron markings, and a display stand.