Italeri 1296 - 1/72 F-104 G Recce  [IT-1296S]

Period: from '50 to '90

Country: N.A.T.O.

Model Dim.: 23,1 cm

F-104 G “RECCE”

The Lockheed F-104 Starfighter the most famous fighters inside history of aviation and in addition one using the longest functional life: its history began at the conclusion of this 50s and finished, for a few atmosphere forces, in mid 2000s. Its unique airframe, with slender fuselage and extremely little wing surface, made this aircraft ideal as an interceptor. Thanks to the thrust of its General Electric J79-GE-11A afterburning turbojet engine, it may exceed Mach 2,2 with an excellent rate of climb. But it wasn't extremely maneuverable and difficult to pilot.The F-104G Starfighter was produced on license by several European aviation industries. From mid 60s, it became the typical interceptor for all NATO countries including Italy, Germany, Holland, Greece, and Turkey. The armament was basically equivalent available on previous versions, with a 20mm Vulcan cannon plus the choice to match beneath the wings air-to-air missiles, bombs, or additional gas tanks to boost the airplane's range.With time, reconnaissance duties were added on old-fashioned interceptor service. The F-104G was consequently fitted with a dedicated “Orpheus” reconnaissance outside pod that offered exemplary functional results.