Up for sale is the Hobby Master HA1311 1:72 A-10A Thunderbolt II 75th FS Operation Iraqi Freedom affectionately known as Killer Chick.  

 

On 7 Apr 2003, Capt. Kim Campbell of the 75th FS deployed in her A-10A Warthog. As part of the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing during OIF the mission was to provide close air support over Baghdad for ground troops. Ready to begin the return flight her aircraft was struck by enemy fire destroying all hydraulic systems. After a brief time Capt. Campbell realized she was going to have to fly the aircraft without hydraulic assistance or bail out over Baghdad, which really wasn’t an option in her mind. Her flight lead assessed the damage and determined that the aircraft had hits to the rear, including the horizontal stabilizer, tail section and engine cowling. Luckily the damage didn’t affect the flight control surfaces or landing gear. There were two options now, continue to fly the aircraft clear of Baghdad and bail out or try to return to base and attempt a landing. Capt. Campbell felt the aircraft was operating well so return to base became the priority. The aircraft made a safe landing and the next problem was staying on the runway and stopping. Without hydraulics there are no speed brakes, brakes or steering. When it was all over Capt. Campbell praised the A-10 for its ability to sustain heavy damage and continue to fly. This occurrence earned Capt. Kim Campbell the nickname “Killer Chick”.

 

I am listing this model as used as I am the second owner of this.  The previous owner sold it to me as new and when they did, they indicated the box did have some shelf wear as you can see in the photos.  Since I received about 2 months ago, I have only removed the model from the box for inspection (never been displayed).  The only issue I found is there is a small nick in the left wing which is right where the blister pack tab holds the model in place within the package.  I noticed that the blister pack is cracked where that left wing sits so I wrapped it in a tissue to prevent any further issues.  This mark was there when I received it and never asked the previous owner for a return or credit as it was not going to be a big deal when I displayed it as it was so minor in my eyes.  I never displayed it, just took it out for inspection.  I wanted to disclose this and be as transparent as I can with anything I noticed.  The model appears flawless otherwise and really is a beautiful A-10.  I did not note anything that would lead me to believe the previous owner displayed it either.  The bags with the attachments looked to have possibly been opened by the previous owner.  I am not sure if they were as the plastic bags were open on one end (not torn) and just included a piece of tape to secure the end.  Older Hobby Master releases did this vs. having sealed packs.  Regardless if they were opened or not, I went ahead and placed everything in more secure Ziplock bags as shown in the picture.  The stand does not appear to have ever been opened.  All parts are accounted for and present.  I wanted this model for my collection, but I am running short on space and don’t have room for this one.  I have several A-10s that have a more personal meaning, so I am keeping those and letting this one go to a new owner.  Don’t miss out on your chance to own a rare and highly sought after diecast model!