
This is a 1/48 scale Republic P-47D Thunderbolt Razorback fighter from Tamiya. In 1943, the 8th Air Force was constantly launching raids on Germany with its B17 and B24's from England. The goal was to demolish Germain main production factories. Unfortunately, losses during these missions were heavy and it quickly became urgent to develop a fighter that is able to escort the bombers over enemy soil. The limited ranges of the Spitfire and P-38 Lightning meant these fighters couldn't fly farther than Paris, leaving the bombers alone to fend for themselves for the rest of the mission.
With the development of the P-47, this problem was finally overcome. The P-47 was the first single-seated fighter to be equipped with a supercharger, letting it fly at the same high altitude as the bombers. This high-flying fighter came armed with eight 12.7mm machine guns that proved to be incredibly useful in the intense fighting that occurred in the European Theatre. Equipped with drop tanks for even longer range, the P-47D was then able to escort the bombers all the way to the German border. The Thunderbolt also allowed countless Allied pilots to become Aces. Bomber crews plagued day after day by intensive German interceptions, would remark that the presence of the P-47 would be a great help.
Includes: One plastic model
Requires:
Scale: 1:48
Length: 9-1/16" (230mm)
Wingspan: 10-3/16" (259mm)