The F-104 was originally designed as a light-weight high-speed interceptor. The F-104C version was a fighter-bomber version flown by the United States Air Force from bases in Thailand during the Vietnam War.

The Lockheed F-104 was designed in Lockheed’s famous ‘Skunk Works’ as a light weight interceptor.

Two prototypes were ordered in March 1953 and the first one made its maiden flight on 17 February 1956.

They began entering service with the USAF in February 1958

The F-104C was optimised for the fighter-bomber role with a more powerful engine, provision for aerial refuelling and the capability to carry air to ground weapons.

They were engaged in the Vietnam War as air superiority and ground attack aircraft beween 1965 to 1967.

This model represents a F-104C of the 435th TFS, USAF, based at Udorn RTAFB, Thailand, in 1967.

Italeri 1/72 kit.