Boeing KC-135T Stratotanker Tanker Aircraft "Pennsylvania Air National Guard" USAF 1/400 Diecast Model Airplane by GeminiJets

Brand new 1/400 scale diecast airplane model of Boeing KC-135T Stratotanker Tanker Aircraft "Pittsburgh IAP, Pennsylvania Air National Guard" United States Air Force "Gemini Macs" Series die cast model by GeminiJets. Detailed exterior. True-to-scale detail. Does NOT include stand. This model does not have any openings. Manufacturer's original unopened packaging. Made of diecast metal with some plastic parts. Dimensions approximately L-4, Wingspan-3.875 inches. Diecast metal and plastic construction for durability and a heavy, realistic feel. HISTORY ASPECTS: The Boeing KC-135T Stratotanker, identified by the registration number 80054, is an integral part of the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station (IAP) and the Pennsylvania Air National Guard, serving proudly in the United States Air Force. This tanker aircraft has a distinguished history of providing critical aerial refueling capabilities and logistical support to a wide range of military aircraft. With its strategic importance, the KC-135T Stratotanker has played a pivotal role in extending the operational reach and capabilities of the U.S. military. Originally designated as a replacement for the venerable KC-97 Tanker, the first KC-135 was designed from the Boeing type 367-80. The initial Boeing 367-80 - also known as the Dash 80 - would not only lay the groundwork for the KC-135, but also for the Boeing 707 as well. The KC-135 has seen many iterations over the years, with the first launch order coming from the USAF in 1954. The first KC-135A took to the skies in August 1956 with the first deliveries to the USAF having begun in June 1957. All initial KC-135A aircraft were delivered with Pratt & Whitney J-57 Turbo-Jet engines. Although these engines were technologically advanced for their day, they produced lots of smoke, they were very loud, and they burned excessive amounts of fuel. During the 1980's a modernization program entailed replacing the original engines of the KC-135A with Pratt & Whitney JT3D TurboFan engines - military designation: TF-33 - derived from retired Boeing 707 airliners. The newly modified jet was designated the KC-135E and rendered the aircraft more reliable with enhanced performance. This update extended the life of the KC-135 well into the next century. The final engine modification arose with the replacement of the TF-33 engines with high bypass CFM-56 engines, which brought the aircraft up to modern days standards. Designated the KC-135R, this revised aircraft has nearly double the power and capability of the original KC-135A. With the KC-135 and its variants having reached 50+ years of service, the sun has begun to set on the KC-135R, with its replacement, the Boeing KC-46 - which is a derivative of the civilian Boeing 767-200 - having first been delivered to the USAF in January 2019. Throughout its service with the Pennsylvania Air National Guard, 80054 has been involved in numerous operations, both at home and abroad. Its primary mission is to refuel various military aircraft in mid-air, ensuring that they can complete their missions effectively. This capability is invaluable for extending the endurance and range of fighter jets, bombers, reconnaissance planes, and other units. The KC-135T Stratotanker embodies the versatility, reliability, and adaptability required to meet the ever-changing demands of military missions. This meticulously crafted 1:400 scale model captures the essence of the aircraft, from its robust design to the markings that signify its dedication to service. Display it with pride, honoring the legacy of the KC-135T Stratotanker and the brave men and women who operate and support it. It is not just a model; it's a symbol of the steadfast commitment and service of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard.