F-14A Tomcat Bicentennial Die-Cast Model

Celebrating the United States’ bicentennial in 1976.

Piloted by Lt. Rick Dudley and Lt. Denny Gladman at the 1976 Paris Air Show, this F-14A Tomcat celebrates the bicentennial of the United States of America. Assigned to the VF-124 “Gunfighters” squadron, aircraft 159616 was delivered in July of 1976 to the unit. Displayed on the ground and in the air throughout the year, VF-124’s NJ-76 was the only Tomcat to feature this unique paint scheme. Transferred to several other squadrons throughout its lifetime, the aircraft was retired at Naval Air Test Center, NAS Patuxent River, in 1994. 

Features:

• Authentic paint scheme, engraved panel lines, printed decals, antennas, and surface details
• Deployed or retracted landing gear
• Realistic “swinging” wings
• Moving tail surfaces
• Press-fit attachable weaponry
• Display stand included
• Measures 10.25”l with a 10.75” wingspan at 1:72 scale
• Officially licensed

History and Specifications:
Designed as the primary defense for the US Navy’s carrier fleet, the Grumman F-14 Tomcat features numerous technological advancements that gave an edge on the battlefield. Touting revolutionary “Fox-3” active-radar-guidance air-to-air missiles, known as the AIM-54 Pheonix, the Tomcat could shoot first against targets more than 20 miles out. Fitted with the newly developed Hughes AWG-9 fire control system and radar unit, the aircraft necessitated the addition of a second crew member, known as the weapons-systems-officer (WSO). Working together to maneuver, designate, and deploy their ordnance, the F-14 would easily outrange and out-fire most enemy aircraft they faced. For closer threats, pilots utilized the semi-active-wing-sweep to adapt the Tomcat’s flight envelope for high speed or low-speed maneuvers.