1:72 scale diecast model airplane by Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series HA1915. McDonnell Douglas F-4F Phantom II
Luftwaffe JG 71 Richthofen.
Length 11 inches
Wingspan 6 inches
In June 1959 West Germany’s first jet fighter unit was formed as Jagdgeschwader 71 (JG 71 – Fighter Wing 71). The Geschwaderkommodore (equivalent of Group Commander or Wing Commander) was the highest-scoring fighter pilot of all time Erich Hartmann. JG 71 originally was based at ex-RAF base Ahlhorn but in 1961 it transferred to Wittmund. April 21 1961 was the 43rd anniversary of the death of “The Red Baron” Manfred Von Richthofen and the unit was given the honorary title of “Richthofen”. JG 71 received the first F-4F Phantom II in 1974 that were used as Fighter/Bomber/Attack but in 1988 became strictly a Fighter Wing. The F-4F is due to be decommissioned by 2012 when they are replaced by the Eurofighter Typhoon.