Hobby Master 1/72 Northrop T-38C Talon N959NA NASA Ellington AFB 2020 Diecast Model Aircraft

The first prototype of what would become the Northrop T-38 Talon and F-5 Freedom Fighters flew on April 10, 1959. The first Talon entered service on March 17, 1961 at Randolph AFB. The USAF and NASA used the Talon to help their pilots maintain their proficiency. NASA especially liked the T-38 for its much lower operating and maintenance costs compared to the F-18 they had tried. Because of the low cost to operate the T-38 the USAF Thunderbirds Demonstration Team used them from 1974 – 1983 during the OPEC oil embargo.

Designed as a supersonic jet trainer to replace the T-33, the T-38 was based on the F-5 Freedom Fighter airframe and was first flown on March 10th, 1959.

The pressurized tandem-seat cockpit offers excellent visibility for both student and instructor and provides a comfortable training environment.

Being both lightweight and nimble, the T-38 is used extensively to prepare military pilots for high performance jet aircraft and has earned the nickname "White Rocket".

The T-38 was famously flown by the USAF Thunderbirds air demonstration squadron during the 1970s and proved popular with NASA who use it as an astronaut trainer and chase-plane.

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.

Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.

Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.

Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.

Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear.

Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.

Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.

Dimensions: 10.7 x 19.6 x 5.4 cm