FW 189A-1 German WWII night fighter 1:72 ICM 72293

Plastic model airplane kit: FW 189A-1 German night fighter from WWII 1:72 ICM 72293

The plastic model kit: FW 189A-1 German night fighter from World War II in 1:72 scale by ICM (catalog number 72293) is an excellent proposition for aviation history and modeling enthusiasts. This detailed set allows you to recreate one of the most iconic Luftwaffe aircraft, which played a significant role in reconnaissance and combat operations during World War II.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:72
• Manufacturer: ICM
• Catalog number: 72293
• Markings: FW 189А-1, Stab 1/ NJG 100, 1944

History and use of the Focke-Wulf Fw 189A-1:

The Focke-Wulf Fw 189A, also known as "Uhu" (Eurasian Eagle-Owl), was a German twin-engine reconnaissance and army cooperation aircraft that entered service with the Luftwaffe in 1940. Designed by a team led by aeronautical engineer Kurt Tank, the Fw 189 featured an unusual design with a twin-tail and a central crew gondola with a glazed cockpit. It was one of the most important short-range reconnaissance aircraft used by the Luftwaffe during World War II.

The Fw 189 was developed in response to a specification issued by the Reichsluftfahrtministerium (RLM) for a modern short-range reconnaissance aircraft to replace the Henschel Hs 126. The first prototype made its maiden flight in July 1938, and early tests showed its superiority over the competing Arado Ar 198, which led to support for its development and serial production.

This aircraft was widely used on the Eastern Front against the Soviet Union, where it served in reconnaissance, light bombing, and night fighter roles. Production of the Fw 189 took place in Focke-Wulf factories in Bremen, Bordeaux-Merignac in France, and Aero Vodochody in Prague. Production continued until mid-1944, when focus shifted to fighter aircraft production.

The Fw 189 earned the nickname "Fliegendes Auge" (Flying Eye) from the German army and was extensively used on the Eastern Front. By September 1942, 172 Fw 189 aircraft were operational on this front, making up the majority of all short-range reconnaissance aircraft. Despite its low speed and delicate appearance, the maneuverability of the Fw 189 made it a difficult target for Soviet fighters.

In the later stages of the war, a small number of Fw 189A-1s were adapted for the role of night fighters. These aircraft were equipped with FuG 212 radar and additional armament in the form of MG 151 cannons, allowing for effective operations at night. Most of these night fighters were operated by NJG 100 and were stationed in Greifswald.

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.