COBI Vietnam War F-4 Phantom II – Col. Olds Edition (Set #2427) | MilitaryBricks.com (coming soon)

Aviation Legend: Colonel Olds’ F-4 Phantom II

Take flight into history with the COBI F-4 Phantom II – Col. Olds Edition. This meticulously detailed block model is a tribute to the aircraft flown by one of the US Air Force’s most storied fighter aces, Colonel Robin Olds. Specifically, this set commemorates the F-4C Phantom II. This twin-engine, all-weather, long-range supersonic interceptor dominated the skies during the Vietnam War.

Historical Background: The Wolfpack and Operation Bolo

In 1966, Colonel Robin Olds took command of the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing (“The Wolfpack”) at Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base. At the time, the US Air Force was struggling with its air-to-air combat effectiveness. Therefore, Olds immediately revitalized the wing. He was already a decorated “double ace” from World War II. Furthermore, he led from the front, flying his F-4 Phantom, often nicknamed Scat XXVII, into combat.

Operation Bolo was the crowning achievement of his command. This brilliant aerial deception occurred on January 2, 1967. Olds masterminded the plan: he disguised his F-4 Phantoms to mimic the radar signatures of slower F-105 Thunderchief bombers. Consequently, this tactic successfully lured North Vietnamese MiG-21 fighters into a deadly ambush. In that engagement, Olds shot down one MiG-21. Additionally, his wing destroyed six others without a single American loss. This was a massive psychological and tactical victory that decimated the enemy’s fighter force.

The Impact of a Leader (and a Mustache)

Colonel Olds’ total career impact goes beyond his four confirmed MiG kills in Vietnam. Notably, these victories made him a “triple ace” (16 total victories across two wars). He was a brilliant and aggressive leader. He consequently instilled a culture of audacity and excellence across the command. His ability to connect with and motivate his airmen turned the 8th TFW into the USAF’s top MiG-killing wing. Olds was also famous for his flair and willingness to challenge rigid regulations. Most notably, he sported a magnificent, regulation-defying mustache, known as the “bullet-proof stache.” This iconic facial hair became a visible symbol of defiance and high morale. In fact, it represented Olds’ no-nonsense, lead-from-the-front leadership style that transformed fighter pilot training and tactics for a generation.

Model Specifications and Features

This COBI block set is a must-have for serious collectors and history enthusiasts, built with high-quality components and an exceptional level of detail:

• Scale: Accurate 1:48 Scale reproduction.
• No minifigures included—just the heads and helmets.
• Piece Count: A challenging and rewarding build with 730 high-quality pieces.
• Dimensions: Impressive size at approximately 15 inches (38 cm) long x 9.45 inches (24 cm) wide x 4.72 inches (12 cm) tall.
• Markings: Features authentic, durable pad-printed markings—no stickers required!
• Display Quality: Includes a sleek display stand and a nameplate.
• Detail: Enjoy movable control surfaces (ailerons), an opening cockpit to view the interior, and detachable landing gear for a “gear up” in-flight display option.
• Conflict Era: Represents the iconic fighter from the Vietnam War.
• Recommended Age: Suitable for builders ages 8+.

Build and display this tribute to one of military aviation’s greatest heroes and the powerful Phantom jet he commanded!