This model kit recreates the state-of-the-art F-35B Lightning II in easy to manage and display 1/72 scale. It inherits many of the detailed features first seen in our 1/48 scale release. Thanks to extensive research of the full-size subject, the B variant of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II model is poised to be the definitive model in 1/72 scale!
Developed under the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program , the F-35 integrates multiple functions into its design and there are three types: the F-35A conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) aircraft, the F-35B short takeoff, vertical landing (STOVL), and the F-35C carrier takeoff and landing (CV). The F-35B was developed as a successor of the AV- 8B Harrier II. The F-35B is recognized as the aircraft which accomplished both supersonic flight and STOVL by the 3-bearing engine duct nozzle and lift fan, and following the F-35A, the F-35B deployment started in 2015. The first F-35B to see action was an aircraft belonging to the U.S. Marine Corps VMFA-211 “Wake Island Avengers” in Afghanistan, in September 2018. Not only the U.S. and the U.K. but also Italy employs the F-35B. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force also plans to launch a new fighter squadron with the F-35B from 2024 onward. As the F-35B can be operated from both aircraft carriers and airfields featuring short runways, many countries are considering its deployment, and the F-35B looks set to become a significant presence in the skies across the world.
The F-35 Lightning II is an ambitious 5th Generation aircraft that aims to meet the needs of different U.S. service arms via three different variants, perhaps the most adventurous of which is the F-35B which combines extremely low observability and exceptional situational awareness with short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) capability facilitated by a lift fan positioned between the engine and cockpit, that lets it operate from smaller confines such as amphibious assault ships, light aircraft carriers and airfields with limited runway space. Its deployment is planned not only by the U.S. Marine Corps, but also by U.K. and Italian air arms. Get a close look at what makes this fascinating aircraft tick with our detailed and accurate model in the manageable 1/72 scale.
Features
- 1/72 scale plastic model assembly kit. Wingspan: 148mm, fuselage length: 215mm.
- The kit recreates the vertical landing and can be assembled in two ways; landed or hovering and ensures superior assembly with dedicated angled door parts.
- The parts faithfully depict a hovering aircraft with downward engine nozzle and opened doors.
- Features realistic renderings of half-open two inner weapon bay doors and interior details such as ribs and pipes.
- The nose landing gear and main landing gear can be depicted as extended (for hovering) or retracted (for landing).
- The lift fan is integrated with nose landing gear bay, and the variable vane underneath is recreated in detail.
- Shorter than on the F-35A, the engine nozzle is recreated by a single part.
- The 3BSM (3 Bearing Swivel Module) is faithfully recreated with a dedicated parts breakdown for this kit.
- RAM (Radar Absorbent Material) are molded into fuselage surfaces.
- Clear parts recreate canopy and EOTS fairing under the nose.
- Includes parts for AIM-9X Sidewinder x2 and AIM-120C AMRAAM x2.
- Y-shaped air intake duct for highly advanced stealth characteristics.
- Detailed cockpit, landing gear bays and roll posts.
- Martin-Baker US16E ejection seat.
- RCS (radar cross section) enhancers affixed to top and bottom sections during basic training exercises.
- One pilot figure with the helmet mounted display (HMD).
- A stand is included to use if you are making a hovering model.
- Comes with 5 marking options from a total of three countries (United States Marine Corps, Royal Air Force, Italian Navy).
- Includes masking stickers and a painting guide.
