German medium cargo glider Gotha Go-242A-1 1:72 IBG 72573

Plastic model airplane kit: German medium cargo glider Gotha Go-242A-1 1:72 IBG 72573

The model kit: German medium cargo glider Gotha Go-242A-1 in 1:72 scale from IBG (catalog number 72573) is an excellent proposition for model-making enthusiasts and aviation history lovers from the World War II era. This detailed model allows for the recreation of one of the key elements of the German Luftwaffe, which, although it did not play a major role in combat operations, was an essential logistical element in transport operations.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:72
• Manufacturer: IBG
• Catalog number: 72573
• Material: Plastic

History and development of Gotha Go-242: The Gotha Go-242 was designed by engineer Albert Kalkert in response to the Reichsluftfahrtministerium (RLM) demand for a heavy transport glider to replace the then-used DFS 230. The new glider was to be capable of carrying 20 fully equipped soldiers or an equivalent payload. The Go-242's design was a significant improvement in terms of cargo capacity and flight characteristics compared to its predecessor.

The Go-242 was a high-wing monoplane with a rectangular fuselage ending in clamshell doors, which facilitated the loading of goods. The fuselage was made of steel tubes covered with impregnated fabric. The cargo versions of the glider had a rear loading ramp that could accommodate small vehicles, such as the Kübelwagen, or loads of similar size and weight.

Production and variants: The first two prototypes took to the air in 1941, and production quickly ramped up. A total of 1,528 units were built, of which 133 were converted into the Go 244 version, equipped with two Gnome-Rhône 14M engines.

Operational history: In service, Go-242 gliders were towed by Heinkel He 111 or Junkers Ju 52 aircraft, and sometimes equipped with RATO (Rocket Assisted Take Off) equipment. Most operated in the Mediterranean area, in North Africa, and in the Aegean Sea. Some versions, such as the Go 242 C-1, were adapted for water landings and had the capability to carry small assault boats.

Preserved examples:

• The Gotha Go 242 can be seen at the Musee de la Resistance du Vercors in Valence, France.
• The Gotha Go 242 C-1 is exhibited at the Technik Museum and Luftwaffenmuseum der Bundeswehr in Berlin, Germany.

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.