Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series HA5410 Northrop T-38A Talon Diecast Model USAF, #65-10363, Air Force Plant 42, CA, 1984, Blackbird Chase Aircraft. Plant 42 is owned by the United States Air Force and shares a runway with Palmdale Regional Airport in California. It is operated as a component of Edwards Air Force Base, which is 23 miles to the northeast. Lockheed’s famed “Skunk Works” (a corporate division tasked with clandestine development of black projects), is at Site 10 of the complex. During the 1980s it was used by Lockheed to produce the U-2/TR-1 and support the SR-71. T-38A #65-10363 was on hand to serve a trainer for SR-71 crew members as well as to act as a chase plane for SR-71 flight test operations. 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. 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.
