[RJLee]

My second Century Wings F-14A arrived this week, a "normal configuration" (uncompressed nosegear, sweepable wings) late-model F-14A from OIF-I in 2003. This one is in the markings of VF-154 "Black Knights" during their final Tomcat deployment aboard USS Kitty Hawk. I chose NF101, the squadron commander's aircraft, since I already have NF100 from FOV (marked in an airshow scheme from 2000).

The quality of this model is generally superb, with Century's trademark heavy construction and fine detailing. There were some minor fit issues with one of the plastic main landing gear pieces, and one of the Phoenix missile pegs needed some minor sanding to slide into the glove pylon slot. The Phoenix pallets are not completely flush with the fuselage (a problem that dates back to the FOV VF-154 model). In addition, there seems to be a tiny streak of stray red paint under one of the canopy rails. Minor specimen flaws aside, however, this is a gorgeous model and a worthy complement to the earlier VF-84 release.

The main draw to this airplane is the external store selection. Century's two VF-154 birds are the first in the line to include Bombcat stores, including two LGBs, two JDAMs, four Mk 83 iron bombs, and a LANTIRN pod. For self-defense there are also two Sidewinders, a Phoenix, and a Sparrow, and the usual TARPS pod is also included. All of these components are beautifully detailed (with micro-stenciling on the bombs) and come with molded adapters so that they plug snugly on to the proper pylons. Historically, the proper Bombcat loadout for a VF-154 F-14A would include the LANTIRN pod and LGBs (F-14As could not carry JDAM, though they could pass coordinates to other JDAM-carrying platforms). If you're heavily into historical accuracy, you might wish that Century omitted the JDAMs and 1000-lb. slicks for two more LGBs (a full load included four weapons), but it's nice to have the other display options.

Surface finish is superb. For everyone wanting a low-visibility F-14, this is pretty close: while the tail fins have the subdued dark red slashes characteristic of VF-154's last showbirds, national insignia and everything else is a mean-looking tactical gray. The skin is a gritty matte that somehow manages to convey a weathered feel without using any conventional plastic-model streaking techniques. It may simply be artful palette selection combined with the finish, but it works.

With the addition of this airplane to its line, Century has produced two fantastic models that bookend the F-14A's storied career: the gleaming, showroom-fresh VF-84 birds from 1978, and the sea-worn, menacing wartime birds from the last A-model squadron's 2003 deployment. When the VF-154 airplanes were first announced, I had not planned to buy any, since I already had the FOV example. Now that I've seen one in person, however, I can't imagine having missed it.

[RJLee]

A few more pics. The other airplane in the background is the VF-154 CAG airplane from FOV.

[SKUNKY]

Thanks for the great review and pix, RJ...That's a gorgeous model!

Question: Do you think the pallets might fit flush if the mounting pins were cut off and they were glued into place? Regardless, the gap isn't nearly bad enough to deter me from one of these....Heck, I grew up on Corgi chasms!

[RJLee]

Originally Posted by SKUNKY

Question: Do you think the pallets might fit flush if the mounting pins were cut off and they were glued into place?

I've wondered that myself (but have been hesitant to try it). Can't see a reason why they wouldn't, since both the pallet and the underside of the fuselage are flat. I think the reason for the gap has to do with very minor misalignment of the pins and resultant slight warping of the plastic pallet, which should go away if you cut the pins and glued the thing down.

[zed550]

the pallets will fit flush if you glue them i did this on a spare fov 154 jet.
most people would have prefered the gbu 10/12 bombs but i have a picture in tomcat units in oif by osprey that does show vf-154 jets with the larger gbu bombs that century provide.
looks very nice looking forward to them arriving in the uk

[Dobber]

Thanks for the review and the pictures RJ. Mine will be here on tuesday.....it always takes so long not sure why! Just a question, I can't tell in the pictures but do you have the Pheonix pallets on the correct sides? The side that looks like it is cut off should be on the outside with the rounded/curved side on the inside. Again not saying you don't know that just making sure cause that MAY be why the pallets don't fit right. Just trying to save you from have to make any cuts.

Chris

[Cavtanker]

RJ, does the N101 come with pilot figures, or did you take yours out for the photos? My N101 is showing up this week sometime.

[mustangdriver]

Great review man, thanks.

[zed550]

they all come with pilots that are seperate so its up you if you wish to fit them.

[Cavtanker]

cool. thank you!