F-16C Thunderbirds "Warbird" No.10 USAF 1988 in 1:72 scale
This is the F-16C Thunderbirds "Warbird" No.10, USAF 1988 in 1:72 scale by Hobby Master.
The F‑16C “Thunderbird No. 10 – Warbird” (tail number 81‑0679) made history in 1988 when the USAF tasked the Thunderbirds to convert one of their demonstration jets into a fully combat‑ready fighter in under 72 hours. This rare accomplishment saw No. 10, normally painted in vibrant red/white/blue, retain its display scheme while being outfitted with live ordnance—including cannon, bombs, missiles, and an ECM pod—before taking to the skies under Major BJ Java, who test‑fired its cannon and dropped bombs with a grin. Dubbed the “Warbird,” this jet wasn’t just a display team asset—it proved the F‑16’s rapid transition capability from airshow performer to frontline combat aircraft, making it uniquely versatile among its peers.
Hobby Master has earned a reputation as one of the top-tier brands for die-cast aircraft due to its meticulous attention to detail, durable metal build, and rich historical accuracy. Collectors often praise their models for realistic panel lines, pad‑printed placards, functional features like removable canopies and landing gear, and authentic detachable ordnance—all hallmarks of their popular Air Power Series. Hobbyists consider Hobby Master “top‑notch,” ideal for collectors seeking museum‑grade realism and durable craftsmanship
The F‑16C “Thunderbird No. 10 – Warbird” (tail number 81‑0679) made history in 1988 when the USAF tasked the Thunderbirds to convert one of their demonstration jets into a fully combat‑ready fighter in under 72 hours. This rare accomplishment saw No. 10, normally painted in vibrant red/white/blue, retain its display scheme while being outfitted with live ordnance—including cannon, bombs, missiles, and an ECM pod—before taking to the skies under Major BJ Java, who test‑fired its cannon and dropped bombs with a grin. Dubbed the “Warbird,” this jet wasn’t just a display team asset—it proved the F‑16’s rapid transition capability from airshow performer to frontline combat aircraft, making it uniquely versatile among its peers.
Hobby Master has earned a reputation as one of the top-tier brands for die-cast aircraft due to its meticulous attention to detail, durable metal build, and rich historical accuracy. Collectors often praise their models for realistic panel lines, pad‑printed placards, functional features like removable canopies and landing gear, and authentic detachable ordnance—all hallmarks of their popular Air Power Series. Hobbyists consider Hobby Master “top‑notch,” ideal for collectors seeking museum‑grade realism and durable craftsmanship
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