Bloch 210 1:72 Heller 80397

Plastic model airplane to assemble: Bloch 210 1:72 Heller 80397

The plastic model of the Bloch 210 in 1:72 scale from Heller is an excellent proposition for aviation and modeling enthusiasts. This detailed kit allows you to recreate one of the most characteristic French airplanes from the interwar period and the early stages of World War II.

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:72
• Length: 264 mm
• Width: 314 mm

History of the Bloch MB.210 airplane:

The Bloch MB.210 was a French medium-range bomber that played a significant role in the military aviation of France during the interwar period. It was the first aircraft in the French Air Force equipped with retractable landing gear, which was an innovative solution at the time. Although it was technically outdated by the beginning of World War II, it remained a core component of French bombing units.

The design of the Bloch MB.210 began in 1932 when the French Navy was looking for a heavy torpedo bomber. The aircraft was designed as a completely metal low-wing monoplane based on the MB.200 fuselage. The first prototype, MB.210-01, made its maiden flight on November 24, 1934, piloted by André Curvale. The aircraft was powered by two Gnome & Rhône 14 Kdrs/grs engines with a power output of 760 HP.

Initial tests revealed the need to increase the vertical stabilizer's surface area, which was implemented in December 1934. In 1936, the prototype was converted into a seaplane version, but its performance did not meet expectations, leading to the cancellation of the order for eight units of the MB.218.

Role in the Air Force:

The French Air Force, observing the development of the MB.210, considered it superior to the MB.200 and ordered 80 units in 1935. The second prototype was adapted for military needs, receiving, among other things, retractable landing gear, new Gnome & Rhône 14 Kirs/jrs engines, and improved defensive armament, including three turrets with MAC-34 machine guns of 7.5 mm caliber.

The MB.210 aircraft, despite its limitations, was an important element of French military aviation in the 1930s and early World War II. Its design and the technologies used were a significant step in the development of military aviation during that period.

Kit for self-assembly and painting. 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.