SkyMax Flying Heroes SM8009
Douglas TBD-1 Devastator Diecast Model
USN VT-8, Black T-16, John Waldron, USS Hornet, Battle of Midway, June 1942 |
| 1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Douglas TBD-1 Devastator | | 5.75" | | 8.25" |
TBD Devastator T-16 was c/n 1506 and was flown by LCDR John Waldron of VT-8 aboard the USS Hornet during the Battle of Midway. On June 4, 1942 the leader of Air Group 8, Stanhope Ring departed the carrier with Wildcats along with VT-8 Devastators to attack Japanese carriers. Upon departure LCDR Waldron realized the assigned group heading was incorrect and tried to get the Wildcats to change direction but was unsuccessful so Waldron got his group of TBDs to follow him. VT-8 found the Japanese carriers but without the Wildcat cover only one crewman survived.
Designed to meet a 1934 US Navy requirement for a carrier-based torpedo-bomber, the Devastator was first flown on April 15th, 1935. The TBD was an early shipboard monoplane built large enough to carry a heavy torpedo and achieve speeds of just over 200 miles per hour. Its design included folding wings, an inclusive canopy, and all metal construction - innovations that would be used by future carrier aircraft. Sophisticated for its time, the Devastator’s strong points were eventually surpassed by enemy forces. Its lack of maneuverability and slow speed made it vulnerable to the high performance of the Japanese Zero. © Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
SkyMax's 1:72 scale TBD Devastator is a well made model constructed almost entirely from diecast metal. The large solid metal wing features simulated corrugated surfaces and a masterfully replicated fairing that blends the wing almost seamlessly into the fuselage. The unusually large greenhouse canopy is removable providing an unobstructed view of interior features like the pad-printed instrument panel, flight controls, ADF antenna and rear mounted machine gun. Engine details such as pushrod housings and cylinder head cooling fins can be seen inside the engine cowling. Releases in this series feature a variety or ordnance configurations such as a removable torpedo and wing mounted bombs (see photos).
© Copyright 2003-2021 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The SkyMax "Flying Heroes" range presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft. SkyMax offer the more price-sensitive collector a cheaper alternative to models from leading manufacturers like Corgi and Century Wings.
SkyMax"Flying Heroes" 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.
- Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear.
© Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
