Cobra F.A.N.G. II (1989)

 

Overview

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The Cobra F.A.N.G. II (Fully Armed Negator Gyrocopter II) was released in 1989 as part of G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero. It was designed as the successor to the original 1983 F.A.N.G., replacing the classic attack helicopter with a more advanced VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) turbo-prop aircraft. Unlike the original F.A.N.G., the F.A.N.G. II was sold without a dedicated pilot, allowing collectors to assign any Cobra pilot or Viper to the aircraft.

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Key Features

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1. VTOL Capability

The F.A.N.G. II is equipped with twin turbo-prop engines and a vertical take-off and landing system, allowing it to:

• operate from confined spaces

• hover over the battlefield

• provide close air support

• perform rapid strike missions

This versatility made it far more advanced than its predecessor.

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2. Twin Turbo-Prop Engines

Instead of a helicopter rotor, the F.A.N.G. II uses dual turbo-prop engines, giving it a unique appearance and improved speed while keeping operating costs lower than a jet aircraft in its fictional backstory.

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3. Heavy Weapons Loadout

The aircraft carries an impressive arsenal, including:

• six AIMZ-33 "Crusher" missiles

• one 20 mm Secto-Barrel impulse cannon

This combination allows it to engage both air and ground targets effectively.

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4. Open Cockpit Design

Like the original F.A.N.G., the F.A.N.G. II features an exposed cockpit with minimal pilot protection—a trademark example of Cobra's willingness to prioritize firepower over pilot safety.

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5. Compact Strike Aircraft

Its relatively small size makes the F.A.N.G. II ideal for:

• reconnaissance

• rapid assault missions

• convoy attacks

• supporting Cobra ground forces

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Fun Facts

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A Modern Successor to the Original F.A.N.G.

Rather than simply repainting the classic helicopter, Hasbro created an entirely new aircraft with VTOL capabilities while retaining the famous F.A.N.G. name.

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No Official Pilot Included

Unlike many Cobra aircraft, the F.A.N.G. II did not include an exclusive pilot. Many collectors pair it with:

• AVAC

• Techno-Viper

• Gyro-Viper

• Alley Viper

• Night Viper

The Gyro-Viper is especially popular because of comic-book appearances.

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One of Cobra's Most Unusual Aircraft

With its twin propellers, VTOL capability, and compact frame, the F.A.N.G. II stands apart from helicopters like the Mamba and jets like the Condor Z-25.

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Better Armed Than the Original

Compared with the 1983 F.A.N.G., the F.A.N.G. II carries substantially more firepower and was designed to fill a broader combat role.

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A Cult Favorite

Although initially overshadowed by iconic Cobra aircraft, the F.A.N.G. II has gained a strong following among collectors, many of whom consider it one of the best late-era Cobra aircraft thanks to its unique design and excellent play value.

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Value Drivers

The biggest factors affecting collector value are:

• complete missile set

• intact propellers

• unbroken landing gear

• clean decals with minimal wear

• original instruction sheet

• original box and inserts

• no stress marks on the cockpit frame

Because the missiles and propellers are frequently missing or damaged, fully complete F.A.N.G. II examples are considerably more valuable than incomplete ones.

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Why Collectors Love It

The Cobra F.A.N.G. II remains one of the most underrated Cobra aircraft because it offers:

• a unique VTOL turbo-prop design

• heavy missile armament

• compatibility with many Cobra pilot figures

• an innovative evolution of the original F.A.N.G.

• excellent display and play value

More than 35 years after its release, the F.A.N.G. II is recognized as one of Cobra's most creative late-era aircraft and an excellent addition to any G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero collection.