Monthly Archives: February 2026

Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series HA2851 Northrop YF-23 Black Widow II Diecast Model USAF, #87-0800 PAV-1 / Gray Ghost, Edwards AFB, CA, 1990. Northrop YF-23 Black Widow II. The Northrop/McDonnell Douglas YF-23 is an American single-seat, twin-engine, supersonic stealth fighter aircraft technology demonstrator designed for the United States Air Force (USAF). The design team was a finalist in the USAF’s Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) demonstration/validation competition, battling the YF-22 team for full-scale development and production. Two YF-23 prototypes were built. The first aircraft, #87-0800, was designated Prototype Air Vehicle 1 (PAV-1) and made its first flight on 27 August, 1990 using the callsign “Gray Ghost”. This aircraft is currently on display at the National Museum of the USAF in Dayton, Ohio. Designed to meet a US Air Force requirement for an Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) to replace the F-15 Eagle, the YF-23 demonstrator was first flown on August 27th, 1990. The USAF’s ATF program aimed to produce a fifth-generation air superiority fighter that would be better matched against emerging new aircraft such as the Su-27 Flanker. After a four-year development and evaluation process, the YF-22 team was selected in favor of the YF-23 in 1991. Although the YF-23 was stealthier and faster, it was less agile than its competitor. Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series. The Hobby Master “1:72 Air Power Series” range presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft. 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 “in flight”. Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.