Curtiss H-75 A1/A2 1:72 Arma Hobby 70080

Plastic model airplane to assemble: Curtiss H-75 A1/A2 1:72 Arma Hobby 70080

The Curtiss H-75 A1/A2 model kit in 1:72 scale from Arma Hobby is an excellent proposition for aviation and modeling enthusiasts. This set, catalog number 70080, allows you to recreate one of the most famous fighters from the early period of World War II. The Curtiss H-75, also known as the Curtiss Hawk Model 75, was a modern, all-metal monoplane with retractable landing gear that debuted in 1935. Its design was distinguished by excellent maneuverability, surpassing even machines like the Messerschmitt Bf-109 and Hawker Hurricane.

Contents of the set:

• Plastic sprues: 2 gray and 1 clear
• Decals for three painting options: 2 French and 1 Polish in France
• Masks for painting the cockpit and wheels
• Assembly instructions
• 3D printable file with details, available for download via QR code or link in the model instructions

Contents of the 3D file:

• Rear cabin wall with seat and belts
• Instrument panel with control stick
• Exhaust pipes in covers
• Gun barrels
• Reflex sight
• Sight (front/rear)

Marking variants:

1. Curtiss H-75 A2 no. 107 (U007), GC 1/55, pilot Lt. Jan Zumbach, Bordeaux, June 1940.
2. Curtiss H-75 A1 no. 16 (U015), 1st escadrille GC I/5, pilot Sgt Léon Vuillemain, Reims, spring 1939.
3. Curtiss H-75 A1 no. 35 (X834), 3rd escadrille GC II/5 “La Fayette”, pilot Adj. Marcel Dougoujon, Toul-Croix-de Metz, November 1939.

History and use of the Curtiss H-75: The Curtiss H-75 was one of the first fighters of the new generation that introduced modern design solutions, such as an all-metal structure and retractable landing gear. Although it did not play a significant combat role in the United States, it became a key fighter for the French Air Force during the Battle of France. France ordered over 400 units in various versions, which turned out to be the most advanced fighters used by the Armée de l'air in the early war period. On these aircraft, both French and Polish as well as Czechoslovak pilots fought and achieved victories over the Luftwaffe.

After the armistice, many Curtisses were evacuated to French Africa, where they served in the Vichy government's air force. Some of the aircraft captured by the Germans were transferred to Finland, where they effectively fought against the Red Army until the end of the war.

The Curtiss H-75 was also used by other countries, such as the Netherlands, Norway, China, British India, as well as by the air forces of Axis countries and their allies. After the fall of France and Norway, several P-36s were taken over by the Germans and transferred to Finland. These aircraft participated in numerous clashes with Soviet forces.

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.