1:72 scale diecast aircraft by Hobby Master. F-104N Starfighter, NASA, Dryden FRC, Edwards AFB, California, 1966.

Length 9 inches
Wingspan 4 inches

Features Include:

• Preassembled and Painted
• Historically Authentic Paint Scheme
• Accurate Panel Lines and Surface Details
• Diecast Metal Construction
• Removable Ordinance
• Display Stand Included
• Positionable Landing Gear
• Made for Adult Collectors

Beginning in 1956 the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) acquired the first of 11 F-104 Starfighters. Over the years these aircraft proved to be the most versatile of all the different planes used at the Dryden Flight Research Center. For the next 38 years the F-104s conducted over 18,000 flights as chase planes and basic research vehicles to airborne simulation and aerodynamic test-beds. The first F-104 was retired in 1975 and is now on display at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC.

In 1963 Lockheed delivered three single-seat F-104G Starfighters to NASA and were re-designated F-10N with the N for NASA. The three were the only purpose built Starfighters for NASA. Their main job was to be chase planes for other high speed airborne test planes. The tail numbers were 011, 012 and 013 with 013 being involved in a major mishap. On June 8, 1966 the second North American XB-70A Valkyrie was on a public advertising photo shoot with F-104N 013 as chase plane. Speculation is 013 got too close and was flipped over by the vortices of the massive XB-70A and sheered off the Valkyrie�s left tail. The F-104N immediately burst into flames killing the test pilot instantly. The XB-70A continued in straight and level flight for 16 seconds without the crew being aware of the incident. Finally the XB-70A went into an uncontrollable flat spin and the pilot ejected with just seconds left but the co-pilot was unable and was killed.