Hobby Master HA5418 1/72 T-38A USNTPS 15/61-0856, US Naval Test Pilot School, NAS Patuxent River, Aug 2005

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.

Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series diecast airplanes feature

• 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.
• Presentation stand to display the aircraft.

Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwhea