SR-71 Black Bird (1:72) USAF 9th SRW, 17974 "Ichi Ban", Kadena AFB, Japan

Few aircraft are as instantly recognizable as the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird and Century Wings have reproduced the stunning lines of this aircraft perfectly in 1:72 scale. With Century Wings' usual degree of exceptional detail and accuracy, this model is absolute "must have" for any diecast aircraft collection. The Lockheed SR-71 was an advanced, long-range, Mach 3 strategic reconnaissance aircraft developed from the Lockheed A-12 and YF-12A aircraft by the Lockheed Skunk Works. The SR-71 was unofficially named the Blackbird, and called the Habu by its crews. Clarence "Kelly" Johnson was responsible for many of the design's innovative concepts. A defensive feature of the aircraft was its high speed and operating altitude, whereby, if a surface-to-air missile launch were detected, standard evasive action was simply to accelerate. The SR-71 line was in service from 1964 to 1998, with 12 of the 32 aircraft being destroyed in accidents, though none were lost to enemy action.

Aircraft #61-7974 has the unfortunate distinction of being the last SR-71 to be lost, ending an 18 year accident-free streak for its type; the longest of any USAF aircraft. The accident occurred on April 21st, 1989 when the right engine exploded after take-off from Kadena, severing hydraulic lines and disabling flight controls. After an initial attempt to regain control of the aircraft for a single-engine emergency landing, the crew were forced to eject, leaving the crippled aircraft to crash off the coast of Luzon in the Philippines.

Century Wings 1:72 Wings of Heroes The Century Wings "1:72 Wings of Heroes" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft. Highly collectible, Century Wings models are setting a new standard in 1:72 diecast for detail and accuracy.

Century Wings 1:72 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.
• Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
• Selected moveable control surfaces.
• Optional extended/retracted landing gear.
• Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
• Detailed removable pilot and crew figures.
• Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
• Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.