B-47 USAF 1: 144 Academy 12618

Plastic model airplane to assemble: B-47 USAF 1:144 Academy 12618

We present a plastic model to assemble of the Boeing B-47 Stratojet in 1:144 scale, produced by the renowned company Academy. This model is a great opportunity for aviation and modeling enthusiasts to recreate one of the most innovative strategic bombers of the post-war period.

Model details:

• Scale: 1:144
• Manufacturer: Academy
• Catalog number: 12618
• Material: Plastic

Original airplane: Boeing B-47 Stratojet

The Boeing B-47 Stratojet, also known as Model 450, is an American strategic bomber that played a key role in the United States' nuclear strategy during the Cold War. Designed for high-altitude and high subsonic speed flights, the B-47 was intended to avoid interception by enemy fighters. Its main mission was to carry nuclear payloads over Soviet territory.

History and development:

The development of the B-47 began in 1943 when the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) expressed a need for a reconnaissance bomber utilizing newly developed jet propulsion. A key innovation in the B-47 design was the use of swept wings, which resulted from research taken from the Germans after World War II. The engines mounted in pods under the wings represented a significant advancement in the design of combat jets after World War II and contributed to the development of modern passenger jets.

The first prototype XB-47 took to the air on December 17, 1947. After defeating competitors such as the North American XB-45, Convair XB-46, and Martin XB-48, a contract was signed for the production of 10 B-47A bombers on September 3, 1948. Soon after, orders increased significantly.

Service and application:

The B-47 entered operational service in 1951 with the Strategic Air Command (SAC) of the United States Air Force, becoming one of the cornerstones of the bombing forces until the late 1950s. Over 2000 units were produced to meet the demands of the Air Force, driven by Cold War tensions. The B-47 served as a strategic bomber until 1965, when it was replaced by more advanced aircraft such as the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress.

The B-47 was also adapted for other roles, including photographic reconnaissance, electronic intelligence, and meteorological reconnaissance. Although it never participated in combat operations as a bomber, reconnaissance aircraft RB-47 were sometimes fired upon near or in Soviet airspace. This type remained in service as a reconnaissance aircraft until 1969, and several units served as flying test beds until 1977.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. To assemble, 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.