TMN: Preview: The "Darkstar" in 72nd scale from Bellfine

If you have the need, the need for a speed build, take a look at this—Belfine Model's new 72nd scale Darkstar" concept from the "Maverick" movie. We look at the built-up kit & features in our preview...

Preview: The "Darkstar" in 72nd scale

Top Gun: Maverick Darkstar

From BellFine

Kit No: 24023

1/72nd scale

Approximately 29cm long when completed

For release in October

Price: $48 USD From Hobbylink Japan

Bellfine Website

The Subject: The "Darkstar" U.S. Navy hypersonic manned experimental aircraft

The "Darkstar" is a conceptual hypersonic aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works division, envisioned as a successor to the legendary SR-71 Blackbird. Designed to reach speeds of Mach 6 - twice that of its predecessor. The Darkstar integrates cutting-edge propulsion systems, including a turbine-based combined cycle engine that transitions from turbojet to scramjet at high altitudes. Its sleek, stealth-optimised design features sharply angled twin tails and shortened wings, allowing for reduced radar cross-section and enhanced aerodynamic efficiency. Though often associated with the U.S. Navy due to its cinematic portrayal in *Top Gun: Maverick*, the real-world development is more closely tied to the U.S. Air Force and broader Department of Defence hypersonic initiatives.

Although the Darkstar itself is only a movie prop, there have been hints at what could be out there already...

Beyond speed, the Darkstar is intended to serve dual roles in reconnaissance and precision strike missions. Its hypersonic velocity would allow it to penetrate heavily defended airspace, gather intelligence, and potentially deploy hypersonic weapons before adversaries could react. The aircraft is expected to feature autonomous capabilities powered by advanced AI systems, enabling rapid decision-making and navigation at extreme speeds. While Lockheed Martin has confirmed the existence of the SR-72 programme, details remain classified, and no civilian has seen the aircraft in flight or on the ground.

Familiar for those who have seen the film, let's stress now to anyone reading this that this is a movie prop, not a real aircraft...

Despite its promise, the Darkstar faces significant engineering challenges. Sustained flight at Mach 6 generates intense heat, requiring novel materials and thermal shielding to prevent structural failure. Fuel efficiency, airspace regulations, and the geopolitical implications of hypersonic weaponization also complicate its path to deployment. As of now, the aircraft remains a highly secretive project, with speculation suggesting a prototype could fly by the mid-2020s and enter service in the 2030s. Whether the Darkstar becomes a reality or remains a symbol of futuristic ambition, it represents a bold leap in aerospace innovation.

The kit: Top Gun: 1/72nd scale Maverick Darkstar from BellFine Models

The Darkstar is the U.S. Navy's hypersonic manned experimental aircraft that appeared in the movie "Top Gun: Maverick, and it can now appear in your collection thanks to this 1/72-scale model kit from Bellfine. The aircraft's most unique feature, captured here in this kit, is that it's equipped with two types of engines: a turbojet and a scramjet. This model kit recreates the movement of the splitter that switches between the two types of engines, landing and takeoff configurations, and the opening and closing of the canopy.

The kit was first shown to the public at the Shizuoka model show this year...