Hobby Master HA4549 F-15E “Hellcat” 96-0201, 494th FS, 48th FW, RAF Lakenheath, 2024 - Price £78.99 (RRP £89.99)

Hobby Master Air Power 1/72 Scale

HA4549 F-15E Strike Eagle “Hellcat” 96-0201, 494th FS, 48th FW, RAF Lakenheath, 2024

Limited to only 550 models worldwide

In 2024, after successfully defending Israel from an Iranian drone attack, the 494th Fighter Squadron returned to RAF Lakenheath with newly adorned F-15E Strike Eagles. The aircraft sported vivid nose art and kill markings symbolising their achievements, including bomb and missile kills. Notable jets, such as the "Hellcat," carried over two dozen bomb markings and nine missile markings, indicating extensive combat missions. The squadron had played a critical role in shooting down over 70 drones launched by Iran against Israel in April. The 494th's return marked a continuation of their vital role in U.S. operations in the Middle East.

In 1967 the U.S. became aware of the Soviet MiG-25 Foxbat. This necessitated the development of a new aircraft to counter the MiG-25. The USAF rejected the USN F-14 Tomcat and issued its own requirements. The solution came in the form of the McDonnell-Douglas (now Boeing) F-15 Eagle. The F-15A made its inaugural flight in July 1972 and in January 1976 the first Eagle entered service. The “E” entered service in 1989. The F-15 was the first dedicated USAF air superiority fighter since the F-86 Sabre.