1/72 scale Tamiya kit of the Douglas F4D-1 Skyray, the U.S. Navy's only operational delta-wing interceptor, holder of multiple world speed records in 1953.

Key Features

• 1/72 scale model kit of the Douglas F4D-1 Skyray — the only operational delta-wing interceptor in the U.S. Navy
• Captures the distinctive 50-degree sweptback wings with leading edge slats and trailing edge elevons
• Wing fold feature reproduced, reflecting the original oil-pressure carrier stowage mechanism

Overview

Towards the end of World War II, information about advanced aeronautical technology was captured in Germany by the U.S. Forces. One of them was an analysis of the studies carried out by Dr. Alexander Lippisch on delta winged aircraft. Based upon this information, the Douglas firm developed the F4D Skyray, the only operational interceptor with delta wings in the U.S. Navy.

Starting the design in 1947, Douglas was awarded a contract for the construction and testing of two prototypes in December 1948. The first prototype took off on its maiden flight in January 1951. The second prototype set two new world records — an absolute speed record of 1,211 km/h and a 100km closed course record of 1,171 km/h — in October 1953. Following numerous improvements and refinements, the first production F4D-1 made its maiden flight in June 1954 and entered squadron service in April 1956.

The distinctive 50-degree sweptback wings with round tips were equipped with leading edge slats and trailing edge elevons. A set of trimmers were installed on the inboard trailing edges of the wings. The outer portions of the wings could be folded upwards by oil pressure for carrier stowage. Although the Skyray never saw any combat, it proved its high capability as an interceptor with numerous world records and scramble actions in Taiwan in response to crises in the late 1950s.

Features

• The unique delta wing design with its 50-degree sweep is captured in style

• Realistic renderings of the cockpit interior and landing gear bays add depth to the model

• The kit includes ordnance such as Sidewinder air-to-air missiles

• Three different marking options are provided for various U.S. Navy squadrons

• A seated pilot figure is included to place in the detailed cockpit

• The model accurately captures the specific F4D-1 variant, of which 419 were produced

• A classic kit from Tamiya's highly-regarded 1/72 War Bird Collection

• Genuine Tamiya Product

Specifications

• Scale: 1/72

• Length: 190mm (7.48")

• Wingspan: 141mm (5.55")

• Height: N/A

• Pieces: N/A

• Decal Schemes: 3

• Skill Level: Intermediate

Included Items

• 1x Model Kit

• 1x Pilot Figure

• 1x Decal Sheet

• 1x Instruction Manual

Required Items

• Plastic Safe Paint

• Modelling Glue

• 1x Tweezers

• 1x Scissors

• 1x Modelling Knives

• 1x Modelling Files

Note

Paints recommended by Tamiya:

• AS-16 Tan (USAF)
• AS-20 Insignia White
• X-10 Gloss Gun Metal
• X-11 Gloss Chrome Silver
• X-18 Semi-Gloss Black
• X-4 Gloss Blue
• X-7 Gloss Red
• XF-1 Flat Black
• XF-16 Flat Aluminium
• XF-2 Flat White
• XF-56 Flat Metallic Grey
• XF-61 Flat Dark Green
• XF-63 Flat German Grey