The Grumman F-14 Tomcat is a twinjet, two-seat variable geometry wing carrier operated fleet defense fighter that came about as a result of a request for proposal from five different aircraft manufacturers in 1968.  Grumman believed that the swing-wing design would suit the aircraft best as it would allow it to achieve a high speed in flight, but also allow it to land at a relatively low speed when approaching a pitching aircraft carrier.  Grumman’s approach to the swing design was to allow an onboard computer to operate it but to also allow the pilot to manually override the automated system in emergencies.  Another feature of the production F-14 A Tomcat was the AWG-9 pulsed radar coupled to a high-technology computer for control.  This system allowed the radar intercept officer (RIO) to track targets up to 188 miles from the F-14 A Tomcat and to launch AIM-54 air-to-air missiles up to six independent targets simultaneously.  In addition to the AIM-54 Phoenix, the F-14 A could also carry both the Sparrow and Sidewinder missiles.  For close in air combat, the F-14 A Tomcat also came equipped with a 20 mm cannon.  The F-14 Tomcat’s combination of sophisticated radar, speed and Maneuverability, plus armament allowed it to play a prominent role in the defense of United States Navy ships until its final retirement from service in late 2006.  This older Grumman F-14 A Tomcat scaled model includes the following features: 1) Authentic markings for a F-14 A Tomcat as flown by the United States Navy; 2) Clear one-piece plastic canopy; 3) Four externally mounted missiles; 4) Molded in off-white colored plastic; 5) Recessed panel lines; 6) Swinging wings and 7) Illustrated assembly instructions.  The box is in very good condition.  Never started and 100% complete with all parts, decals and instructions inventoried.