American attack aircraft B-26K Counter Invader (early) 1:48 ICM 48278

Plastic model airplane for assembly: American attack aircraft B-26K Counter Invader (early) 1:48 ICM 48278

The plastic model for assembly: American attack aircraft B-26K Counter Invader (early) in 1:48 scale from ICM (catalog number 48278) is an excellent proposition for aviation and modeling enthusiasts. This detailed set allows for the recreation of one of the most famous attack aircraft that played a significant role in the history of military aviation.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:48
• Manufacturer: ICM
• Catalog number: 48278

Option to choose one of four markings:

• B-26K 64-17644, 211 Squadron, 2 Group, Air Force of Congo
• B-26K 64-17645, 211 Squadron, 2 Group, Air Force of Congo
• B-26K 64-17646, 211 Squadron, 2 Group, Air Force of Congo
• B-26K 64-17649, 211 Squadron, 2 Group, Air Force of Congo

History and operational background: The B-26K Counter Invader is a modified version of the Douglas A-26 Invader, which originally served as an attack bomber during World War II. After the war, in 1948, the aircraft was renamed to B-26 and was reused during the Korean War (1950-1953) mainly as a night intruder against North Korean supply lines. In 1958, it was retired from service, but in 1961 the USAF restored many Invaders to service as tactical bombers in Southeast Asia.

In the 1960s, during the civil war in Congo, the B-26K Counter Invader was used to support government forces against the Simba rebels. Due to political restrictions, American pilots could not participate in missions, so crews were recruited from pilots from other countries, including many Cubans. These aircraft, equipped with heavy machine guns and unguided rockets, were effective in combat against the rebels due to their high firepower, long range, and lack of enemy air defense.

In 1966, after modifications carried out by On Mark Engineering, the B-26K returned to Southeast Asia, where it performed ground attack missions along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Changes included a redesign of the fuselage and tail, wing reinforcement, engine upgrades, reversible propellers, and fuel tanks at the wingtips. These aircraft, renamed to A-26A, remained in Southeast Asia until 1969, when they were retired from USAF service.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. For assembly, separately sold modeling tools are needed (including cutters, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement). The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.