Tamiya Plastic Model Kit

F-35C Lightning II (1/72)

This 1/72 scale plastic model assembly kit recreates the U.S. Navy’s F-35C Lightning II, the carrier variant of the Joint Strike Fighter. With over 60% newly designed parts compared to the earlier F-35 kits, this version captures the unique features of the C variant, including larger wings, reinforced landing gear, and the option to display folded wingtips for carrier storage.

• 1/72 scale plastic model assembly kit
• Wingspan: 182mm, fuselage length: 218mm
• Option to build with extended or folded wingtips
• Detailed wing hinge structures and reinforced landing gear
• Realistic nose landing gear bay with intricate rib and pipe detail
• Radar Absorbent Material (RAM) panel lines moulded into fuselage
• Lower fuselage gun pod and training RCS enhancers included
• Fine details for air intake, cockpit, ejection seat, landing gear bays, and engine nozzle
• Clear parts for canopy and EOTS fairing
• Includes AIM-9X Sidewinder and pilot figure with HMD
• Masking stickers for canopy
• Six marking options: 3 U.S. Navy, 3 U.S. Marine Corps

Note: This model kit requires assembly and painting. Glue, paints and tools are not included and must be purchased separately.

History:

The F-35C Lightning II is the carrier-based variant of Lockheed Martin’s Joint Strike Fighter, designed to replace ageing naval aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet. First appearing in 2009, the F-35C incorporates larger wings, horizontal stabilisers, and robust landing gear for arrested carrier operations, with folding wingtips for efficient storage aboard carriers. Its stealth design, advanced avionics, and integrated sensor suite give it unmatched situational awareness and survivability in contested environments.

The F-35C’s first flight occurred in 2010, with the first successful carrier landing aboard USS Nimitz in 2014. Declared operationally ready in 2019, it has since served alongside U.S. carrier strike groups in training and operational missions. Combining supersonic speed, agility, and cutting-edge electronic warfare systems, the F-35C ensures the U.S. Navy retains air superiority well into the 21st century.