1/72 F-86E Sabre FU-746, Col. Maj. William H. Westcott and Francis S. Gabreski, 25th FIS/51st FIW, October 1951

Description

This is a die-cast metal and plastic display aircraft.

A pre-assembled and pre-painted 1/72 scale diecast model of a F-86 Sabre in the markings of the Unites States Air Force. Includes parts for extended and retracted gear, pilot figure, full armament and an in-flight display stand.

Background information from the manufacturer:

General Background
The North American F-86 Sabre was manufactured from 1949 1956 and was America’s first swept-wing fighter. As well as being built in the U.S. variants were built in Canada and Australia bringing the total of all variants manufactured to 9,860 units. During the Korean War the Sabre arrived to take on the other swept-wing aircraft of the conflict, the MiG-15 Fagot. The Americans claim they shot down 792 MiGs while only losing 78 Sabres, a 10:1 victory ratio which is greatly disputed.

The Aircraft
Col. Francis Gabreski, commander of the 25th FS/51st FIW and was assigned North American F-86E 51-2740 named Gabby. Occasionally pilots flew whichever aircraft was available and in October 1951 he was flying F-86E 51-2746 FU-746 Lady Frances/Michigan Center when he shot down one of the 6.5 MiG-15s he accumulated during his tour. FU-746 was the aircraft assigned to Major William Westcott who scored several of his 5 victories in FU-746. On November 21, 1952 51-2746 flown by 2nd Lt P.D. Blakeley was shot down but pilot was rescued.