As its almost impossible for us to list models covering all the many different air forces that use this type of aircraft we are offering to make a scale replica model of what you see in the first image above of the real aircraft and in the dimensions shown in the listing.

To give you confidence in what you will receive the below image is of a similar type of model (aircraft type or air force) that we have made before which shows you the detail and quality of finish that we achieve.

"You never really own a PlaneArts - you merely look after it for the next generation"


The dimensions of the model we will make of the aircraft depicted in the image at the top of this page (first image in the thumbnail section) will be as follows: 


LENGTH: 7.10 INCHES (18.10 CM), WINGSPAN: 16.10 INCHES (40.80 CM), SCALE: 1:32 (1/32)

eBay does not allow us to offer variations of size or scale in one listing but if you would like to see an example of the next smaller size or scale model you can do so by clicking on the link below. 

Lockheed D-21 Drone Reconnaissance Desk Wood Airplane New Model Smaller Scale 1/48

Other sizes and scales apart from the two above (or other model types) available upon request - just message us for more info.

 

This model replica is painstakingly hand carved and then hand painted out of solid kiln dried mahogany wood(from renewable sources) by our highly experienced and talented craftsmen at our Filipino owned factory near the original Clark Air Base in Pampanga and takes about 9-10 weeks to manufacture. Production in our factory is supervised by our own resident British Pilot who ensures that exact blueprints are used for these meticulously detailed scale models custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications and that will be cherished by all.

The model will be exactly as you see in the above image of the real aircraft and not the example we show below of a similar model we have made before. In terms of detailing (doors, windows, lights, control surface markings, antennas etc.) and livery or markings will follow the real aircraft image so we would kindly ask you to study the images very carefully (if you require higher resolution images please ask) to make sure that the model as you see is the 100% the same version you require or expect. We request your understanding on this matter due to the fact that these handmade models are traveling in many cases halfway around the world and any misunderstandings or mistaken expectations must be addressed at this as point of time as we cannot be held responsible for the costs involved in returning and replacing the model. The model will be shipped with the stand you see in the images although you may request if you like to change to either 1, 6 or 7 as in the attached image examples (just message us if a change is required).

It is our aim to continue to be a "sustainable" manufacturer avoiding the use of man-made materials wherever possible such as plastics, resins or metal in an attempt to reduce our Carbon Footprint and to protect our environment for generations to come. Our models are "works of art" and not to be confused with mass made plastic kits or diecast (die cast) look-alikes. We are proud Filipino's exporting to all parts of the globe and creating employment opportunities in an impoverished part of our country.

100% handmade models naturally come at a higher price than off the shelf, plastic or diecast (die cast) models but it may interest you to know that an average regular size fixed wing or helicopter model takes on average a total of 26 dedicated Man Hours of work to produce. During this time the model transitions through over 40 different manufacturing stages and processes. The 26 hours are not consecutive and require in-between many days (and in some cases weeks) of drying and curing time as they pass from one department to another making the overall production time from an outsiders point of view appear rather lengthy. Given these facts the time period we quote for production alone is very standard for our type of industry and among our close competitors. If you are interested in what goes into making these models, there follows a summary process schedule and video. Please click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the eBay listing)

 

PlaneArts Manufacturing Process

Production video will open in a new window


The fully assembled model comes with a stained solid mahogany (or mahogany with steel arm) stand and is ready to display on your desk, bookcase or wherever you desire. The photographs you see have not been manipulated or digitally edited - they are exactly as the model looks in real life, but unfortunately even digital photography cannot do full justice to the look and feel of the model once you receive it!

PlaneArts have been producing models for over 20 years which are honed to perfection by the dexterity of our Skilled Master Craftsmen and carefully checked at all stages of manufacture by our dedicated Quality Assurance Team. We promote internationally on eBay to ensure our products get the best exposure worldwide. Due to a high level of demand and the huge diversity of aircraft types and liveries most models are made to order and take about 9-10 weeks to produce (excluding National and Public Holidays). You will also notice that we offer models often way below the price of other companies advertising on the eBay. We are able do this because of the direct manufacturing and selling basis of our business - models direct from the factory and not from an intermediary or trading / marketing company. All models are shipped internationally through FedEx, UPS or DHL Express Courier (Door to Door worldwide within about 3 business days). Fully traceable and insured against damage or loss).

Apart from those models you see in our eBay store - using your photos or images, we will make you a personalized replica model of your aircraft with your own individual paint scheme, logos, registration number, antennas and all the details that make your airplane special. You can even upgrade and personalize your model with a fully customized transparent interior to match your seats, colors, instrument panel and all other important interior details. Alternatively, we can copy any current or historic commercial or military airplane or helicopter that has ever flown just by giving us images or photos. Each meticulously detailed scale model is custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications. We will build you a model that will not only meet your expectations but will go far beyond and with detail that will amaze you!

If you do not see the model you require in our eBay Store please message us on eBay with a description and images of what you require including the size or scale of the desired model and we will then do a dedicated listing for you on eBay. Our Customer Service Team will then help you with questions you may have and upon request update you on the status of your order. Our Production Team will work with you personally during construction until your model is ready to taxi on its journey to your own door in its foam fitted heavy duty export packaging.

To watch a video of the professional protective packing of PlaneArts models destined for all parts of the globe, please also click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the eBay listing)

 

Packing Process

Production video will open in a new window



 

Lockheed D-21: High-Speed Reconnaissance Drone of the Cold War

The Lockheed D-21 was an ambitious American reconnaissance drone developed during the Cold War to fly at extreme speed and altitude over heavily defended territory. Built by Lockheed’s advanced development group, it was designed to gather photographic intelligence without risking a pilot, using performance—rather than stealth—as its primary protection. The D-21 remains one of the most unusual unmanned aircraft ever fielded: a sleek, dart-like vehicle intended to cruise at around Mach 3, release its camera film for midair recovery, and then be lost or destroyed after the mission.

Origins and Development

The D-21 emerged from a period when the United States sought new ways to collect strategic intelligence over denied areas. With air defenses improving and political risk rising, unmanned reconnaissance was attractive—especially if the aircraft could outrun interceptors and complicate missile engagements.

The program’s initial concept centered on launching the drone from a mothership aircraft rather than operating it like a conventional takeoff-and-landing UAV. This approach allowed the drone to be optimized almost entirely for high-speed cruise and mission endurance at altitude. Early plans paired it with a carrier aircraft derived from the A-12/SR-71 family, reflecting how closely the D-21’s mission requirements overlapped with the high-speed reconnaissance world.

Design and Configuration

Visually, the D-21 looks like a miniature, unmanned cousin of Blackbird-era aircraft. It used a slender fuselage, sharply swept delta wing, and a dorsal inlet feeding a ramjet engine. A key reason for its smooth, clean shape was simple: at Mach 3, drag and heating dominate everything.

Launch Methods and Operational Concepts

The D-21 program used two main launch concepts over its development life. The earliest plan involved air-launching the drone from a specialized high-speed carrier aircraft. Later, a different method was adopted that used a bomber platform and a rocket booster to accelerate the drone to ramjet operating speed.

Challenges and Program Outcome

The D-21 was at the edge of what was practical for its time. Its flight profile required precise navigation, reliable launch mechanics, and robust guidance systems able to function under extreme heat and vibration. Any error—launch instability, guidance drift, recovery failure—could compromise a mission.

Operational testing and limited missions revealed how difficult it was to achieve consistent success. As satellites and other reconnaissance methods improved, the cost and risk of the D-21 concept became harder to justify. The program was ultimately discontinued, leaving the D-21 as a rare example of a truly high-speed unmanned reconnaissance aircraft that briefly approached operational use.

Conclusion

The Lockheed D-21 represents a bold Cold War experiment: an unmanned aircraft designed to survive not by hiding, but by flying so fast and so high that interception was unlikely. Its Mach 3 performance, ramjet propulsion, and film-recovery reconnaissance system capture a unique moment in intelligence history—when engineers pursued extreme speed as the answer to denied access. Although the D-21’s operational value was limited and short-lived, its design remains a landmark in unmanned aviation, showing just how far Cold War technology could be pushed in the pursuit of strategic reconnaissance.