1/72 Academy USN F/A-18E Super Hornet 'Chippy Ho' 12432

1/72 Scale Academy USN F/A-18E Super Hornet 'Chippy Ho' Special Edition Model Kit

Build a legendary piece of US Navy carrier aviation history with this special edition 1/72 scale model of the Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet from Academy Models. This limited availability kit represents an aircraft from VFA-195 'Dambusters,' featuring the iconic 'Chippy Ho' nose art and colorful markings that made this squadron famous during their deployments aboard USS George Washington and USS Kitty Hawk.

Kit Features

• Highly detailed 1/72 scale plastic model kit
• Special edition with limited availability
• Accurate F/A-18E Super Hornet single-seat variant
• Highly detailed cockpit interior with instrument panel and ejection seat
• Detailed landing gear compartment with bay details
• Authentic VFA-195 'Chippy Ho' nose art markings and decals
• Optional position canopy
• Detailed landing gear with optional positions
• Comprehensive weapons loadout including AIM-9 Sidewinders, AIM-120 AMRAAMs, and drop tanks
• Detailed General Electric F414 engine exhaust nozzles
• Fully engraved panel lines and rivet details throughout
• High-quality waterslide decals
• Clear illustrated assembly instructions with painting guide

About VFA-195 'Dambusters' and 'Chippy Ho'

Strike Fighter Squadron 195 (VFA-195) 'Dambusters' is one of the US Navy's most storied squadrons, originally established in 1943. Based at Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, VFA-195 was the first operational US Navy squadron permanently forward-deployed to Japan flying the F/A-18E Super Hornet. The squadron's colorful 'Chippy Ho' nose art and distinctive tail markings became iconic during their deployments, representing the squadron's proud heritage and connection to the Pacific theater. This special edition kit captures the unique character and spirit of this legendary naval aviation unit.

About the F/A-18E Super Hornet

The Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet is an advanced carrier-based multi-role fighter that represents a significant evolution from the original F/A-18 Hornet. Introduced in 1999, the Super Hornet features a larger airframe (25% bigger than the legacy Hornet), increased range and payload capacity, more powerful General Electric F414 engines producing 22,000 pounds of thrust each, and advanced avionics systems including AN/APG-79 AESA radar. The single-seat E-variant serves as the Navy's primary strike fighter, capable of air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and aerial refueling missions. With its proven combat record and versatility, the Super Hornet remains the backbone of US Navy carrier air wings.

Specifications

• Scale: 1/72
• Skill Level: Intermediate
• Item Number: 12432
• Manufacturer: Academy Models
• Origin: South Korea
• Aircraft Type: Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet
• Service Branch: United States Navy
• Squadron: VFA-195 'Dambusters'
• Markings: 'Chippy Ho' nose art scheme
• Edition: Special Edition - Limited Availability

What You'll Need

This unassembled plastic model kit requires plastic cement, paint, and modeling tools. We recommend using authentic USN colors including Light Ghost Gray (FS 36375), Dark Ghost Gray (FS 36320), and Flat Black for panel lines to achieve period-accurate finishes.

Complementary Products

Enhance your F/A-18E Super Hornet build with these related items from our store:

• 1/48 Kinetic F/A-18C Hornet
• 1/72 Hasegawa F/A-18D Hornet
• 1/72 Academy Models Jet Aircraft Collection

About Academy Models

Academy Models is a renowned South Korean manufacturer of high-quality plastic model kits. Visit Academy's official website to learn more about their complete product line and company history.