Dragon Models USA

Barcode: 0 89195 50314 5
Case Pack: 10 pieces per case
Box Size: 10.2" x 10.2" x 3.1"


VFA-27, or Strike Fighter Squadron 27, is a U.S. Navy fighter squadron that flies the F/A-18E Super Hornet. The unit is also known by its nickname “Royal Maces”, the mace being a medieval handheld weapon designed to pierce heavy armor. Such weapons were used by royal bodyguards in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, and they came to symbolize authority and the rule of law and order. VFA-27’s F/A-18 Hornets participated in Operation Enduring Freedom in 2001 flying against Al Qaeda and the Taliban, and it also saw extensive combat in 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The squadron departed the USS Kitty Hawk in May 2004 in order to begin transitioning to the F/A-18E Super Hornet. This they duly completed at NAS Leemore in October of the same year.

Dragon Warbirds has a beautiful 1/72 scale model of an F/A-18E from VFA-27 “Royal Maces” available for collectors. It is done up in the colorful black and yellow markings of the CAG on the upper half of the fuselage. Detail on this miniature is exemplary, with panel lines cleanly and finely molded. The distinctive markings of the CAG are expertly rendered, including the “NF” tail code, a hand bearing the royal mace, and the characteristic saw-tooth markings on the tail rudder. Apparently, the first officer to introduce these saw-tooth markings painted them on a plane and then afterwards sought his commander’s approval. After being told to remove them and not to paint the planes without permission again, the commander then proceeded to order that they be repainted back on! This Dragon Warbirds F/A-18F is outstanding in quality, and it will make a high-impact presence in any aircraft collection.