1:72 scale diecast aircraft by Hobby Master Air Power Series HA2502. Republic F-105B Thunderchief USAF Thunderbirds, 1964.

Length 11 inches
Wingspan 6 inches

Features:
* 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.
* Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
* Optional extended/retracted landing gear.
* Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
* Authentic detachable ordinance loads complete with placards.
* Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.

The �B� variant of the Republic F-105 Thunderchief was the initial production version and became operational in May 1958 replacing the F-84 Thunderjet. On December 11, 1959 an F-105B set a world speed record of 1,216.48 mph over a 62 mile course. The F-105B never saw combat and only 75 were produced before the all-weather �D� variant became available in 1964. The F-105Bs were transferred to ANG and AFRES units with their last flight in 1981 when they were sent to be scrapped. At least five aircraft were spared and sent to museums.

On June 1, 1953 the 3600th Air Demonstration Team was activated and later named �Thunderbirds�. In 1964 the USAF Thunderbirds selected the F-105B as their new aircraft replacing the F-100C. Nine specially modified Thunderchiefs arrived for the new season. After the sixth show of the season tragedy struck when Capt. Gene Devlin died when his F-105 broke apart while performing a high-G climbing maneuver prior to landing. Later that year the team returned to the F-100D variant and flew this until 1969 when they switched to the F-4 Phantom II.