F-104A Starfighter “ROCAF” Die-Cast Model

Known for its tiny wings and huge engine, the F-104 Starfighter is one of the most iconic interceptor aircraft across the globe. 

Serving in numerous countries for both strike and air-intercept operations, Lockheed’s rocket with wings was able to attain tremendous speed in very short time. Nations across the globe scrambled to attain licensing for production, with each requiring specific adjustments to fit their needs. Built internationally to the tune of 2,580 units, the troublesome but amazing “Widow Maker” successfully deterred many enemy forces from returning after their first contact. 

Stunning and precisely detailed, this model features:

• An authentic paint scheme, engraved panel lines, printed decals, antennas, and surface details.
• Includes deployed or retracted landing gear and display stand to show the aircraft in flight.
• Has an opening canopy with pilot figurine which can be placed inside. 
• Measures 9.25”l with a 3.75” wingspan at 1:72 scale.
• Highly collectable and officially licensed model.

History and Specifications:
Highlight of the aircraft’s design, the prominent General Electric J79-GE engine provided incredible amounts of thrust, while the stubby wings reduced drag during flight. Unfortunately, this came at the detriment of low-speed handling, necessitating the use of long runways for the Mach 2.2 capable aircraft. Though deployed with the familiar selection of AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles for interception, with the only exception being Italy which fitted theirs with variants of the AIM-7 Sparrow, some nations opted to equip ground attack ordinance for combined missions. For close in engagements, all but some of the later F-104S variants carried an internal M61A1 Vulcan 20mm gatling gun, with 750 rounds of ammunition. Their longest serving aircraft of 40 years, this F-104 Starfighter was a hallmark of the ROCAF efforts. Received as surplus under the “Alishan 6 Project” codename, each one provided important firepower in the defense of the Taiwan Strait during the 1970s.