F-104C Starfighter
Item#: TAMC212- U.S. interceptor
- Jet Engine aircraft, single engine
- Handcrafted, hand-painted mahogany construction
- Scale: 1/32nd
- Operators: U.S. Air Force, NASA, German Luftwaffe (modern), Italian Air Force, others worldwide
- Time in operation: 1958-2004 (Italy)
- Post-World War II era
- Manufacturers: Lockheed
- Length: 20.5 inches
- Wingspan: 8.88 inches
The F-104 Starfighter is one of the most distinctive fighters ever built, with a quite small wing size compared to the length of the aircraft, a very unique look. The F-104 took only two years to develop, thanks to a very minimalist design: small frame, big engine.
The F-104 served for a short time as a home guard interceptor with Air Defense Command while they waited for the F-106 before then moving on to Tactical Air Command as a multi-role fighter starting in 1958. Since it was primarily an air superiority fighter, the F-104 did not match well with U.S. Air Force multi-role fighter requirements, and was little utilized by American forces. Starfighters did see service with a number of NATO nations, operating in both the air superiority and ground attack roles in several conflicts throughout the world, and as a chase plane for NASA development trials.
The distinctive F-104 is depicted here in its C variant, and finished in U.S. Air Force colors. Superb attention to detail and quality construction make this model a must have for any collector or enthusiast.
Material
Wood
Weight
4.2 lbs.
Finish
Painted
Year
1958
Brand
Toys and Models
Length (in.)
20.5
Branch
Air Force
Aircraft
Jet
Wingspan (in.)
8.88
Era
Post-WWII
# of Pieces
1
Scale
11689
