A striking and highly detailed 1:72 scale diecast representation of McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom II BuNo. 153887, operated by United States Marine Corps squadron VMFA-235 “Death Angels” during 1972. Released as part of the Hobby Master Air Power Series, HA19024 depicts the aircraft carrying the tactical identification DB13 and the squadron's distinctive red, white and grey markings.
VMF(AW)-235 initially deployed to Vietnam during 1966 while equipped with the Vought F-8E Crusader, completing more than 6,000 combat sorties during a ten-month deployment. The squadron returned to Vietnam during 1967 before relocating to Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay in Hawaii the following year.
Following its move to Hawaii, the unit was redesignated VMFA-235 and adopted the name “Death Angels”. It subsequently re-equipped with the McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom II, which remained central to the squadron's operations until its transition to the F/A-18 Hornet during 1989.
The model represents F-4J BuNo. 153887, construction number 2503. The aircraft remained with VMFA-235 until 1977 and was later upgraded to F-4S standard. It was converted for use as an aerial target drone during 1991 and was eventually expended in 2001.
HA19024 recreates the aircraft in the light grey and white finish commonly associated with United States Navy and Marine Corps Phantoms of the period. The scheme is enhanced by bold MARINES titles, the DB13 identification, red-edged control surfaces and a highly distinctive red nose decorated with white stars.
Originally developed as a carrier-based fleet-defence fighter, the F-4 Phantom II evolved into one of the most versatile combat aircraft of the Cold War. Its powerful twin-engine configuration, tandem two-seat cockpit and ability to carry a substantial weapons load allowed it to perform interception, air-superiority, reconnaissance and ground-attack missions.
The F-4J was developed specifically for the United States Navy and Marine Corps and introduced improved radar, engines and weapons capability compared with earlier naval variants. It could carry AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles together with bombs, external fuel tanks and other mission-specific equipment.
This substantial Hobby Master release features extensive diecast construction, permanently pad-applied markings and finely reproduced panel detailing. The model includes opening or closed canopy options, pilot figures, configurable landing gear, extensive optional armament and the original Hobby Master presentation display stand.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Hobby Master
Series: Air Power Series
Model code: HA19024
Aircraft: McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom II
Bureau Number: 153887
Construction Number: 2503
Tactical Markings: DB13
Unit: United States Marine Corps VMFA-235 “Death Angels”
Associated Base: MCAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii
Date/Period: 1972
Operator / Country: United States Marine Corps / United States
Role: Fleet-defence fighter, interceptor and fighter-bomber
Scale: 1:72
Release Year: 2021
Edition: Limited-edition collector release
Material: Heavyweight diecast metal with quality sub-components
Special Features: Authentic BuNo. 153887 and DB13 markings, distinctive VMFA-235 Death Angels scheme, red star-decorated nose, pad-applied markings, detailed tandem cockpit, opening or closed canopy options, pilot figures, configurable landing gear, optional armament and original presentation display stand
Model Dimensions
Length: 9.75" or 24.8 cm
Width (Wingspan): 6.25" or 15.9 cm