Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series HA2828 Lockheed F-22A Raptor Diecast Model USAF 422nd TES, #04-4070 Symbiote, Nellis AFB, NV, November 2021, Mirror Paint Finish. F-22A 04-4070 is the second of two aircraft belonging to the 422 Test and Evaluation Squadron (TES) that have been seen wearing a special mirror-like finish. The first sighting of 04-4070 took place on March 17, 2022 at Nellis AFB. As to the purpose of this new covering, there is only speculation at this point. Designed to meet a US Air Force requirement for an Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) to replace the F-15 Eagle, the F-22 was first flown on September 29th, 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. The F-22 uses stealth technology and can function in air superiority, ground attack, intelligence and electronic warfare roles. Despite its capabilities, the F-22 program was relatively short-lived; by 2010 its high cost coupled with the development of the F-35 (a more versatile and less expensive aircraft) led to a cessation of F-22 production funding. Hobby Master’s 1:72 scale F-22 Raptor is constructed almost entirely in diecast metal with near-seamless construction. The cockpit has an articulating hinged smoke-colored canopy that closes with almost no visible gap and opens to reveal a detailed interior with side-mounted fly-by-wire joystick, throttle controls, ejection seat and pad-printed digital display screens. The stabilators are movable, and the under-wing mounted fuel tanks are removable. The landing gear are constructed as complete subassemblies for quick configuration, and a full complement of configurable ordnance exposes structural details when configured in the deployed position. 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.
