Hobby Master: 1/48 P-47D Thunderbolt “Razorback” 42–22668, Col. Neel Kearby “Fiery Ginger IV” 348th FG., New Guinea, March 1944
The Republic Aviation P-47 “Thunderbolt” entered service in May 1942 with the introduction of the P-47B. It had a “Razorback”, a high dorsal spine behind the side-ways opening canopy that reduced visibility. As improvements were made a “D” variant was produced with 12,602 being manufactured. The British developed a sliding bubble canopy for their Typhoon and this was adopted by the USAAF starting with the P-47D-5. With its ability to survive enemy fire along with impressive armament and bomb load the P-47 excelled at ground attack roles.
By March 5, 1944 Col. Neel Kearby had scored 21 victories and was trying to beat Eddie Rickenbacker’s 26 total. On this day Kearby and two other pilots attacked a Japanese formation with Kearby downing the lead aircraft while his wingmen took out the Japanese wing men. Before Kearby knew it he had a Japanese aircraft on his tail and was unable to shake it. Flying P-47 42–22668 “Fiery Ginger IV” Kearby didn’t return to base. Col. Kearby was one of two P-47 pilots to receive the Medal of Honor.
Features:
- Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
- Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear.
- Presentation stand to display the aircraft “in flight”.
- Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
- Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.
Specifics:
- Scale: 1:48
- Aircraft Type: Fixed-Winged
- Era: World War II