Hobby Master HA2813 1:72 F-22A Raptor

Hobby Master HA2813 1:72 F-22A Raptor 04-4078, 8th FS, Black Sheep, 49th FW, Holloman AFB, early 2011.

The USAF developed a requirement for a new air superiority fighter to replace the F-15 Eagle. Two proposals were submitted with the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor being selected as the new Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF). The aircraft is constructed using 39% titanium, 24% composite material, 16% aluminum and 1% thermoplastic by weight. All these components contribute to the F-22 being a light weight, extremely maneuverable, extremely fast aircraft that uses stealth technology. The F-22 is also capable of ground attack, electronic warfare and signals intelligence.

Lockheed F-22 Raptor 04-4078 c/n 645-4078 was delivered to the USAF on August 31, 2006 assigned to the 94th FS at Langley AFB, Virginia in January 2007. When the 94th upgraded to newer F-22 block aircraft 04-4078 was sent to the 8th FS Black Sheep 49th FW at Holloman AFB, New Mexico. During WWII the 7th and 9th FS got new aircraft but the 8th got hand me downs and felt like Black Sheep. In July 2011 the 8th FS was disbanded with 04-4078 going to the 7th FS at Holloman.