One of the most important aircraft of the early jet era, the North American F-86 Sabre was in many ways a jet powered version of the companys hugely successful P-51D Mustang from WWII and an aircraft which made full use of captured German aerodynamic research material. Featuring a distinctive 35-degree wing sweep, the Sabre also incorporated three nose mounted .50 calibre machine guns positioned on either side of the aircrafts nose, with this jet powered gunslinger sharing many design philosophies with its famous piston powered predecessor. On entering service with the U.S Air Force in 1949, the North American F-86 Sabre would have the distinction of not only being Americas first swept wing fighter, but also the fastest fighter aircraft in the world at that time, a true aviation classic.

Arctic Gladiators Aerobatic Display Team

The USAF 720th Fighter Bomber Squadron formed the Arctic Gladiators team in June 1954. The display team consisted of four F-86F Sabre aircraft, which all carried the squadrons silver and red colour scheme, plus extra markings. The display team lasted just 10 years when it came to an end in 1955. Displays were limited to the US state of Alaska.

Scheme A: North American F-86F-30 Sabre

Arctic Gladiators aerobatic team, 720th Fighter-Bomber Squadron, United States Air Force, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, 1955.

Scheme B: North American F-86-25 Sabre

514th Fighter-Bomber Squadron, Royal Air Force Manston, Kent, England, 1954.

Specifications

• Pieces: 166
• Length: 239mm
• Width: 239mm
• 2 x Decal Options
• Includes all parts from previous releases.