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SCF-49 Kingpin

2,672 StarcrestUnited  one month ago

Rule the skies.

The SCF-49 Kingpin, developed in 1976 as a private venture by Starcrest United, epitomizes innovation in air superiority fighter design. Featuring a streamlined single-engine setup, advanced avionics, and robust aerodynamic capabilities, the Kingpin swiftly gained international acclaim. Its export success was highlighted by adoption across nations including South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, and South Africa, solidifying its legacy as a versatile and reliable aircraft. This widespread deployment not only showcased Starcrest United's engineering excellence but also established the Kingpin as a pivotal asset in global air force arsenals during its era. About 1,800 of these were produced between 1976 and 1990, and were retired from Starcrest's fleet in 2000.

The SCF-49 Kingpin, introduced in 1976 as a private venture by Starcrest United, was a single-engine air superiority fighter that quickly became a benchmark in modern aviation. Armed with an impressive array of weaponry, it carried Starcrest's own NUATA and SCATRAM missile series, alongside industry staples like the AIM-7, AIM-9, and AIM-54 missiles. Its versatility in aerial engagements was further enhanced by a formidable 20 mm machine gun, allowing it to excel in both long-range missile strikes and close-quarters dogfights. Praised for its exceptional maneuverability and advanced avionics, the Kingpin was a sought-after export, finding homes in the air forces of South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, and South Africa. This widespread adoption not only demonstrated its reliability and adaptability but also solidified Starcrest United's reputation as a leader in aerospace innovation during a time of heightened global tensions. The Kingpin's design and combat capabilities ensured its legacy as a pivotal force in maintaining air dominance.

The SCF-49 Kingpin further solidified its reputation as a versatile aircraft through its exceptional close air support capabilities. It was equipped to carry a range of Starcrest-made munitions, including GASSAM 9s air-to-ground missiles for precision strikes, as well as the MEGA GASSAM Mk. 1 and Mk. 2 missiles, tailored for delivering impactful blows to fortified targets. Additionally, its compatibility with the SGB series guided bombs, like the SGB-20 Buster X, showcased its ability to execute devastating attacks with precision and reliability.
The Kingpin also seamlessly integrated globally respected American armaments, such as AGM-65 Mavericks, GBU Paveways, and Mighty Mouse rockets, enhancing its tactical flexibility in diverse combat environments. This extensive payload capacity allowed the Kingpin to excel in close air support missions, effectively providing ground forces with critical aerial firepower in even the most demanding scenarios. With its blend of advanced weaponry, strategic adaptability, and reliability, the Kingpin became a cornerstone in the arsenal of allied nations, reflecting Starcrest United's engineering excellence and dedication to innovation.

Spotlights

General Characteristics

  • Created On Windows
  • Wingspan 36.8ft (11.2m)
  • Length 51.3ft (15.6m)
  • Height 15.7ft (4.8m)
  • Empty Weight 17,410lbs (7,897kg)
  • Loaded Weight 29,264lbs (13,274kg)

Performance

  • Power/Weight Ratio 5.759
  • Wing Loading 75.5lbs/ft2 (368.7kg/m2)
  • Wing Area 387.6ft2 (36.0m2)
  • Drag Points 8105

Parts

  • Number of Parts 174
  • Control Surfaces 3
  • Performance Cost 793