In May 1941, as the war raged in Europe, a single-engine fighter weighing more than 4 tons made its first flight. The fighter was the XP-47B, a prototype of the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt, of which a total of 15,683 would be built. Thanks to wartime experience, the aircraft was equipped with a 2,000 hp R-2800 star engine, a turbocharger and eight 12.7mm cal. machine guns. The XP-47B was expected to reach a speed of 633 km/h and production of the P-47B began as early as January 1942, just after the United States entered the war. This was followed by the P-47C with various improvements, and from April 1943 the P-47D, the most commonly built version. The P-47D was equipped with the R-2800-59 engine, which could develop up to 2,300 horsepower when the combat emergency injection system was activated. Ducts running along the sides and under the cockpit, used to connect a supercharger located behind the pilot's seat, gave this aircraft a massive appearance. Many subtypes of the P-47D were produced, designated D-1 through D-40, but the first versions were called "Razorback" because of their sharp-edged dorsal fin. The D-25 subtype, which was introduced around June 1944, was fitted with an electrically actuated bubble canopy to improve pilot visibility and increase fuel tank capacity. This decision resulted in a completely redesigned aircraft shape. All subsequent subtypes were also equipped with a bubble shield and became a feature of late production Thunderbolts. The P-47 "Bubbletop" proved to be an excellent, well-balanced bomber fighter.
Plastic model to be glued together by the German company Revell. Kit does not include paint and glue.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Revell
- Scale: 1/72
- Product code: 03984
For more information and photos please visit the manufacturer's website.
Do you want to know the history of P-47D THUNDERBOLT aircraft ? See HERE
And, how the original flies ? See in the video: