Box Front
 
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Catalog Description:
STAR WARS: RETURN OF THE JEDI
B-WING FIGHTER VEHICLE
It's an authentic replica of the REBEL vehicle that fought off THE EMPIRE'S ships in STAR WARS: RETURN OF THE JEDI. Our B-WING FIGHTER has a unique gravity-controlled cockpit. So, even if you "fly" the B-WING upside-down, the cockpit (and the Action Figure you put inside it) will always be "right side up." The B-WING is well equipped for battle--with laser cannons and sounds. To operate the side wings, just turn one of the rear engine pods. You can even raise and lower the landing gear. Two "AA" batteries, not included. Action Figures sold separately. Ages 4 and up.
Image Source: 1985 Power of the Force Planetary Map
Description Source: 1984 Kenner Toy Fair Catalog
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Description:
I don't think anyone could deny that the B-Wing Fighter was one of the greatest vintage Star Wars vehicles: it was big, fabulously detailed and packed with neat features. It debuted in 1984, the sophomore year of the ROTJ line, and for a time was planned for release in the Power of the Force line of 1985. While it's most notable feature was its cockpit, which rotated into an upright position regardless of what position the toy was held in, it also had electronic "laser battle sounds," as well as wings that folded into attack position when one of the exhaust ports was rotated.
I don't believe the B-Wing sold incredibly well; like it's 1984-release counterpart, the Imperial Shuttle, it was released at a time when Star Wars mania was dying down, and it was a fairly expensive toy. But collectors have always admired it, and it's become quite expensive in unused, packaged condition. As of late 2000, the toy had not been re-issued by Hasbro.
First Issued: 1984 (ROTJ packaging)
Re-issues: None
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