BUNDLEA23 1:48 American Air Power Bundle

Curtiss P-40B Warhawk

Product code: A05130A

This 1:48 scale model kit of the Curtiss P-40B Warhawk represents a pivotal fighter aircraft for the Allied Air Forces in the early years of WWII. Comprising 106 parts and rated at skill level 2, this plastic model accurately depicts the unique short-nosed design of the Allison V-1710-33 powered fighter. It includes two genuine paint options, featuring the renowned shark-mouth design that elevated these planes to legendary status in aerial warfare.

Key Features

• 1:48 scale model with 106 plastic components
• Includes two genuine paint options
• Skill level 2 - ideal for intermediate modellers
• Assembled wingspan measures 237mm
• Captures the distinctive early P-40B short-nose design
• Features the famous shark-mouth artwork popularised by RAF No.112 Squadron

History

In the initial phases of WWII, the American-manufactured Curtiss P-40B emerged as a crucial fighter aircraft for the Allied Air Forces. Operating with the RAF in North Africa and the American Volunteer Group in China, the Allison V-1710-33 powered P-40B became one of the most recognisable fighters of the war, adorned with its intimidating shark-mouth design.

The early P-40 models were perhaps the most visually striking, with their menacing silhouette - characterised by a shorter, pointed nose and the deep roar of the Allison V-1710 engine, the P-40B (known as Tomahawk IIa in RAF service) resembled airborne Great White sharks. In 1941, RAF No.112 Squadron of the Desert Air Force added menacing shark teeth and eyes to their aircraft, inadvertently transforming their Tomahawks into some of the most iconic and visually striking aircraft of WWII. This trend in aircraft decoration spread widely during the war, but it was the RAF Desert Air Force that initiated it.

BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc.

Individual price: £29.99

North American P-51D Mustang

Product code: A05131A

This remarkable 1:48 scale replica of the North American P-51D Mustang consists of 147 parts, allowing you to build one of the Second World War's most renowned fighter aircraft. Offering a choice between two unique paint finishes and featuring a wingspan of 235mm, this level 3 model kit embodies the spirit of the aircraft that revolutionised Allied air dominance with the integration of the Rolls Royce Merlin engine, achieving the highest number of enemy aircraft downed during the war with a total of 4,950.

Key Features

• 1:48 scale model with 147 plastic components
• Option of two genuine paint finishes
• Accurate depiction of the P-51D version
• Completed wingspan measures 235mm
• Skill level 3, ideal for modellers aged 8 and older
• Designed for long-range escort missions with superior firepower
• Faithful detailing of the Rolls Royce Merlin-powered version

History

The North American P-51 Mustang is recognised as one of the most iconic American fighter planes of the Second World War. Initially created to meet an RAF requirement, the Mustang's capabilities were significantly enhanced with the installation of the Rolls Royce Merlin engine. The P-51D variant, known for its extended range and formidable firepower, excelled as an escort fighter, safeguarding bombers on missions to Berlin and back. It holds the record as the highest-scoring Allied fighter of the conflict, with 4,950 enemy aircraft destroyed. Post-war, the P-51D served in the Korean War and remained in use by some South American air forces until the early 1980s.

Produced under licence. (Vehicle/Aeroplane Models) the distinctive logos, product markings, and trade dress are all trademarks of The Boeing Company.

Individual price: £29.99

North American Mustang Mk.IV/P-51K Mustang

Product code: A05137

This remarkable 1:48 scale replica of the North American Mustang Mk.IV/P-51K allows you to recreate one of the most legendary American fighters from World War II. Comprising 147 components, this model kit provides an engaging project that embodies the aircraft's streamlined form and renowned silhouette, pivotal in altering aerial combat history.

Key Features

• 1:48 scale model with 147 components for a comprehensive and fulfilling assembly
• 236mm wingspan faithfully represents the Mustang's unique shape
• Includes two paint options to represent various service aircraft
• Skill level 2 - appropriate for modellers aged 8 and above
• Intricate plastic construction reflecting the iconic P-51's graceful design

History

The North American P-51 Mustang stands as one of the most famous American fighters from the Second World War. Initially crafted to meet an RAF requirement, the Mustang's capabilities were significantly enhanced with the integration of the Rolls Royce Merlin engine. The P-51D variant's extended range and formidable armament made it an excellent escort fighter, capable of safeguarding bombers on missions to Berlin and back. The P-51 holds the record as the highest-scoring Allied fighter of the conflict, with 4,950 enemy planes downed. In 1948, its designation was updated to F-51D, and it continued to serve in the USAF and RAAF as a ground attack aircraft during the Korean War.

The Mustang Mk.IV was the RAF's designation for the P-51K version, which featured a different propeller manufacturer compared to the P-51D. This variant excelled in Royal Air Force units, showcasing the outstanding performance that made the Mustang a preferred choice among Allied pilots in various air forces.

Produced under licence. (Vehicle/Aeroplane Models) the distinctive logos, product markings, and trade dress are all trademarks of The Boeing Company.

Individual price: £29.99

North American P-51D Mustang (Filletless Tails)

Product code: A05138

A thoroughbred fighting aeroplane, the P-51D Mustang was produced in greater numbers than any other variant and introduced a number of improvements over earlier models. With a new wing design, teardrop canopy and lower rear fuselage, the P-51D was the mount of many USAAF aces and became the primary US fighter in the European Theatre, following its introduction in mid 1944.

Individual price: £29.99