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Code: DM-50305    Add to wishlist
Status: Sold out - Discontinued
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Dragon Models 1:72 Warbirds 50305
Republic P-47D Thunderbolt Diecast Model
USAAF 56th FG, 61st FS, "Little Chief", Frank Klibbe, w/Airfield Hardstand Display Base

1:72 Scale   Length   Width
Republic P-47D Thunderbolt   6"   6.75"

The first unit to be equipped with the P-47 was the 56th Fighter Group in June 1942. A P-47D is the subject of a new Dragon Warbirds release, and it shows an aircraft from the 61st Fighter Squadron of this very unit. This FG moved to England in December 1942, and in the succeeding two years it was the most successful Eighth Air Force group in air-to-air combat with 665.5 kills. It was involved in the invasion of Normandy and also in the Battle of the Bulge.

The finely crafted miniature from Warbirds is a P-47D Razorback version, so-called for the ridge behind the pilot's canopy. Later P-47Ds did away with this ridge in favor of a one-piece bubble canopy that gave the pilot better visibility. The model bears accurately rendered markings, including the "HV" fuselage code of the 61st FS, and the aircraft's name of "Little Chief". This particular aircraft was flown by 1st Lt. Frank W. Klibbe, who achieved seven victories. Of special note is the fact that this model fighter is presented on a beautifully modeled scenic base. The diorama presentation is stunning, and it means collectors don't have to worry about creating their own display base to show off this fine model. The diorama captures the atmosphere perfectly and the combination is a real eye-catcher.

Republic P-47D Thunderbolt

Designed by Alexander Kartveli meeting a USAAC requirement for a heavy fighter, the P-47 was first flown on May 6th, 1941. Later models featured a "bubble-top" canopy rather than the sharply peaked "razorback" fuselage which resulted in poor visibility for the aircraft's pilot. The P-47, a deadly pursuit aircraft, featured 8 x 12.7mm machine guns; all mounted in the wings. Even with the complicated turbosupercharger system, the sturdy airframe and tough radial engine, the P-47 ("Jug" or "Juggernaut" as it was nicknamed) could absorb damage and still return home. Built in greater quantities than any other US fighter, the P-47 was the heaviest single-engine WWII fighter and the first piston-powered fighter to exceed 500 mph.

© Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.

The Dragon Wings P-47 mold allows the "razorback" and "bubble-top" canopy styles with separate castings for each fuselage. This finely crafted model includes many details, such as an opening canopy that reveals a fully detailed cockpit with pad-printed instruments and side panels. The flaps are hinged and moveable, which is uncommon in 1:72 scale. The carefully-applied paint schemes bring out the subtleties of panel lines, rivets and control surface details. Pad-printed unit markings and finely detailed placards complete this historically accurate model.

© Copyright 2003-2013 The Flying Mule, Inc.

Dragon Models 1:72 Warbirds

The Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircaft.

Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" diecast airplanes feature:

  • 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.
  • Selected moveable control surfaces.
  • 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.

© Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.

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