The new guardian of the skies has arose.
The SCF-66 Vanguard, introduced in 2010, represents a leap forward in Starcrest United's aerospace innovation as a 4.5th generation multi-role fighter. Drawing inspiration from the iconic SCF-46 Valiant, the Vanguard combines advanced avionics with supermaneuverable capabilities, making it a formidable presence in both air-to-air combat and ground attack missions. Its versatility and cutting-edge design have made it a sought-after asset for international air forces, with Poland, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam among its primary operators. The Vanguard's adaptability and performance have solidified its reputation as a reliable and advanced fighter in modern military aviation. The SCF-66 is a global success, with it still in production and not expected to be retired.
The SCF-66 Vanguard integrates advanced thermal signature reduction measures to enhance its semi-stealth capabilities. Central to this design is the NAF (Non-Afterburning) engine series, which enables supercruise—maintaining supersonic speeds without relying on afterburners. This innovation not only increases the aircraft's operational range but also significantly reduces fuel consumption. To further minimize its detectability, the engine housing is constructed using heat shields and absorbing materials, effectively lowering its thermal signature and boosting survivability in hostile environments.
The SCF-66 Vanguard's supermaneuverable design exemplifies its advanced flight capabilities, allowing it to execute complex maneuvers like the Cobra maneuver. This dramatic move, where the aircraft momentarily lifts its nose to an extreme angle before returning to level flight, showcases the Vanguard's exceptional aerodynamics and thrust-vectoring systems. Such agility not only enhances its combat performance by enabling sharp positional changes in dogfights but also reinforces its reputation as a cutting-edge multi-role fighter.
Regarding the aircraft's livery and squadron...
The 18th Interceptor Squadron "Red Hot Cougars" stationed at Javia AFB in Cebu, first ordered the SCF-46i Valiant MDS in 1991 but instead opted for the new Vanguard fighters, keeping the 91 on the tail as a homage.
Lieutenant Oswald "Hag Hunter" Douglas performed several patrols over the South China Sea in this aircraft, logging over 5,000 flight hours before being promoted to Captain and switching to the more advanced SCF-72 Tripoli III. Despite all the patrols, he has not seen action in his SCF-66 Vanguard.
According to Starcrest PMC rulebooks, pin ups of any kind are allowed as long as they do not discriminate. This allowed Oswald to hire an artist in 2019 to paint the VTuber Housnou Marine on the tail of the aircraft in dedication, with even the squadron insignia being change to her in 2020.
Specifications
General Characteristics
- Created On Windows
- Wingspan 27.6ft (8.4m)
- Length 47.6ft (14.5m)
- Height 16.2ft (4.9m)
- Empty Weight 30,249lbs (13,720kg)
- Loaded Weight 41,637lbs (18,886kg)
Performance
- Power/Weight Ratio 8.581
- Wing Loading 86.0lbs/ft2 (420.1kg/m2)
- Wing Area 483.9ft2 (45.0m2)
- Drag Points 4807
Parts
- Number of Parts 186
- Control Surfaces 5
- Performance Cost 923