1/72 Lockheed Martin® F-35®B Lightning II®

Following the releases of Items 61124 (1/48 F-35A), 60792 (1/72 F-35A) and 61125 (1/48 F-35B), we are proud to announce Item 60793 (1/72 F-35B) as a new addition to our F-35 Lightning II series!

Inheriting the very detailed depictions from Item 61125, this kit focuses on the recreation of the vertical landing. Modelers can choose from two assembly types; landed or hovering. Although this is an F-35 like Item 60792, over 60% parts are newly designed for this kit.

Developed under the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program , the F-35 integrates multiple functions into its design and there are three types: the F-35A conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) aircraft, the F-35B short takeoff, vertical landing (STOVL), and the F-35C carrier takeoff and landing (CV).

The F-35B was developed as a successor of the AV- 8B Harrier II, and the U.K. - which along with the United States Marine Corps. employed many Harrier II - joined this program at early stage. The F-35B is recognized as the aircraft which accomplished both supersonic flight and STOVL by the 3-bearing engine duct nozzle and lift fan, and following the F-35A, the F-35B deployment started in 2015.

The first F-35B to see action was an aircraft belonging to the U.S. Marine Corps VMFA-211 “Wake Island Avengers” in Afghanistan, in September 2018. Not only the U.S. and the U.K. but also Italy employs the F-35B, and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force also plans to launch a new fighter squadron with F-35B from 2024 onward.

As the F-35B can be operated from both aircraft carriers and airfields featuring short runway, many countries are considering its deployment, and the F-35B looks set to become a significant presence in the skies across the world.

About the Model

• This is a 1/72 scale plastic model assembly kit. Wingspan: 148mm, fuselage length: 215mm.
• The distinctive F-35B design featuring both highly advanced stealth characteristics and STOVL is authentically captured in style, with ergonomic parts breakdown.
• The kit recreates the vertical landing, and can be assembled in two ways; landed or hovering, and ensures superior assembly with dedicated angled door parts.
• The parts faithfully depict a hovering aircraft with downward engine nozzle and opened doors. (Please refer to the table on the next page.)
• Features realistic renderings of half-open two inner weapon bay doors and interior details such as ribs and pipes.
• Nose landing gear and main landing gear can be depicted as extended (for hovering) or retracted (for landed).
• The lift fan is integrated with nose landing gear bay, and the variable vane underneath is recreated in detail.
• Shorter than on the F-35A, the engine nozzle is recreated by a single part.
• The 3BSM (3 Bearing Swivel Module) is succinctly yet faithfully recreated with a dedicated parts breakdown for this kit.
• Fine recreations of RAM (Radar Absorbent Material) are molded into fuselage surfaces.
• Clear parts recreate canopy and EOTS fairing under the nose.
• Includes parts for AIM-9X Sidewinder x2 and AIM-120C AMRAAM x2.
• This kit also features realistic renderings of the following sections:
- Y-shaped air intake duct for highly advanced stealth characteristics
- Details such as cockpit, landing gear bays and roll posts
- Martin-Baker US16E ejection seat
- RCS (radar cross section) enhancers affixed to top and bottom sections during basic training exercises
- One pilot figure with the helmet mounted display (HMD)
• A stand is included to use if you are making a hovering model.
• Comes with 5 marking options from a total of three countries (United States Marine Corps, Royal Air Force, Italian Navy).
• Includes masking stickers and a painting guid

Tamiya model kits are known for their high quality and attention to detail, offering a rewarding building experience for hobby enthusiasts. These kits typically require assembly and painting to achieve their full potential, allowing you to customize the model to your preference.

To build a Tamiya kit, you'll need a few essential tools:

• Cutting tools such as hobby knives or sprue cutters to remove parts cleanly from the plastic sprues.
• Adhesives, like plastic cement or super glue, to bond parts securely.
• Sanding tools, such as sandpaper or files, to smooth out edges and remove mold lines.
• Paints (acrylic or enamel) and brushes or an airbrush system to bring the model to life with realistic colors.

Kits may also include decals for finer details, and you may want optional tools like tweezers, masking tape, or clamps for added precision.

Building a Tamiya kit is not only a creative challenge but also a great way to relax and enjoy a hands-on project.

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