Hobby Master HA1440 1:72 A-4K Skyhawk 'Lizard Scheme' NZ6201, 2 Squadron, RNZAF, New Zealand, 1987
The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) 2 Squadron operated the A-4K Skyhawk, which was a crucial asset for New Zealand's air combat capabilities. Based at Ohakea Air Base, 2 Squadron employed the A-4K primarily for roles such as close air support, reconnaissance, and maritime strike. The A-4K variant featured upgrades to avionics and weapons systems tailored to meet New Zealand's operational requirements. Throughout its service, 2 Squadron conducted training exercises and participated in operational deployments, contributing to national defense and regional security efforts. The squadron's operations with the A-4K underscored its role in maintaining readiness and supporting ground forces, demonstrating the aircraft's adaptability and reliability.
Douglas A-4K Skyhawk
Designed to replace the antiquated, propeller-driven AD Skyraider, the A-4 Skyhawk was first flown on June 22, 1954. Douglas exceeded the original design requirements by delivering a carrier-capable aircraft that was only half the Navy's weight specification and so compact that it did not need folding wings. The A-4 was the first to use "buddy" air-to-air refueling (an A-4 could refuel other aircraft of the same type), which was helpful when operating in remote locations where dedicated tankers were impractical. The A-4 served the US Navy until 2003 and remained the preferred warplane for the Marine Corps until the 1980s, even after the introduction of the A-7 Corsair II.
Hobby Master's 1:72 scale A-4 Skyhawk is a sturdy model constructed almost entirely from diecast metal with only the smallest amount of plastic used. This model has an opening canopy with pad-printed dials and gauges, control stick and pilot seat. Each release features a pair of 20mm cannons, a delicate refueling probe and a variety of wing-mounted weapons ordnance and fuel tanks. The series includes the early B and E variants as well as the F and M variants, which have a hump on the top of the fuselage to house upgraded avionics (also seen on retrofitted E variants).
Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series
The Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" range presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft.
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.
- Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear.
- Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
- Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
- Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.
Includes:
- A-4K Skyhawk RNZAF
