1st F-14D by Dragon Models!
This model features the striking all black livery with bat logo of the Air Test and Evaluation Squadron NINE "Vampires" based at Point Mugu, California.
Main Features:
- Working "Variable Sweep" wings!
- 1/72 Authentic Scale
- Accurate F-14D mold approved by Northrop Grumman
- High quality diecast metal
- Historically accurate
- Removable missiles
- Detailed cockpit
- Opening canopy
- Moveable flight control surfaces
- Engraved panel lines
- Ready for display
- Display in flight or in landing mode (stand included)
- Approximate dimensions: 10.3"L x 10.7"W (unswept) x 6.3"W (swept) x 2.7"H
About the VX-9 "Vampires":
The VX-9 “Vampires” are otherwise known as Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Nine. The squadron conducts operational testing of various aircraft and weapon systems in order to develop appropriate tactics and procedures. The unit also maintains a permanent F-14 Tomcat detachment at Point Mugu in California.
As of 2000, VX-9 had 67 officers, 350 enlisted personnel and 28 aircraft including the FA-18E/F Super Hornet, FA-18 Hornet, F-14 Tomcat, EA-6B Prowler, AV-8B Harrier, and AH-1 Cobra. Typically, aircrews are qualified in more than one of these aircraft types, increasing their versatility and providing broader based expertise to be applied to each project. VX-9's mission has grown to include the operational evaluation of attack, fighter, and electronic warfare aircraft, weapons systems and equipment, and to develop tactical procedures for their employment.
About the F-14D Tomcat:
The Grumman F-14 Tomcat is a United States Navy supersonic, twin-engine, variable sweep wing, two-seat strike fighter. The Tomcat's primary missions are air superiority, fleet air defense, and precision strike against ground targets.
To facilitate early introduction of the F-14 into service the first version of the aircraft was planned using the engine and weapons system technology from the F-111B, and then, progressively introduce new engines and a new weapons system into the F-14 new airframe. Thus, the designation F-14A was assigned to the new aircraft equipped with updated TF-30 engines and the AN/AWG-9 weapons system from the F-111B. A F-14B was planned to follow using the engine from the advanced technology engine competition. Then, the 'B' would be followed by the F-14C with a new weapons system replacing the AN/AWG-9. In the event, the AN/AWG-9 replacement was delayed and when it arrived, as the AN/APG-71, the designation assigned to the new aircraft was F-14D. The F-14C, thus, was never produced.
MILITARY AIRCRAFT 
