F-35 Lightning II (A Version) J.A.S.D.F 302 SQ 50TH Anniveersary 1:72 HASGAWA 02485

Plastic model airplane for assembly: F-35 Lightning II (A Version) J.A.S.D.F 302 Sq 50th Anniversary 1:72 Hasegawa 02485

The plastic model for assembly F-35 Lightning II (A Version) J.A.S.D.F 302 Sq 50th Anniversary 1:72 Hasegawa represents one of the most technologically advanced multirole fighters in the world, the F-35 Lightning II, in the A version, used by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).

Model features:

• Scale: 1:72
• Catalog number: 02485
• Model length: 217.5 mm
• Includes parts to assemble the F-35A model in a special paint scheme for the 50th anniversary of the 302 Squadron JASDF
• The set includes two decal variants: low-visibility and full-color, which were presented during airshows at Misawa Air Base in 2024
• The model comes with a display stand

About the F-35 Lightning II: The F-35 Lightning II is an American fifth-generation multirole fighter designed to perform missions in both air superiority and ground attack. It is a single-engine, supersonic aircraft with stealth capabilities, making it difficult to detect by enemy radars. The F-35A, being the conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) version, is the lightest and smallest variant in the F-35 family, capable of withstanding g-forces of up to 9 g.

This aircraft was developed by Lockheed Martin in collaboration with Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems. The F-35A is used by many countries around the world, including the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, which had 42 operational units of this model by April 2025, with a planned total purchase of 147 units, including 105 F-35A and 42 F-35B.

History and significance: The F-35 Lightning II originates from the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program, which aimed to replace older fighter models such as the F-16 Fighting Falcon and F/A-18 Hornet. In 2001, the Lockheed Martin X-35 project defeated the competing Boeing X-32, winning the contract to develop the new fighter. The F-35 program is one of the largest and most complex military projects in the world, primarily funded by the United States and NATO partner countries and close allies of the USA.

The F-35A entered service with the United States Air Force in August 2016, and its first combat use occurred in 2018 by the Israeli Air Force. This aircraft is planned as a key element of NATO air forces and US allies, with planned use until 2070.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. For assembly, separately sold modeling tools are needed (including cutters, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g., Tamiya Extra Thin Cement). The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.