P-51D-5 Mustang Weekend Edition 1:72 Eduard 7476

Plastic model airplane for assembly: P-51D-5 Mustang Weekend Edition 1:72 Eduard 7476

We present the model of the American fighter from World War II - P-51D-5 Mustang in 1:72 scale, produced by the renowned company Eduard. This kit from the Weekend Edition series focuses on the version of the aircraft without the additional dorsal fin, making it unique in its category.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:72
• Plastic parts manufacturer: Eduard
• Decal options: 4
• Decals: Eduard
• Photo-etched parts: none
• Painting masks: none
• Resin parts: none

History and achievements of the P-51 Mustang:

The North American Aviation P-51 Mustang is an American long-range fighter that played a key role during World War II and the Korean War. Designed in 1940 by a team led by James H. Kindelberger, the Mustang was created in response to a request from the British Purchasing Commission, which was looking for a modern fighter for the Royal Air Force (RAF).

The first prototype, designated NA-73X, was completed in just 102 days from the signing of the contract and made its maiden flight on October 26, 1940. Initially, the Mustang was equipped with an Allison V-1710 engine, which limited its performance at high altitudes. However, in 1942, as part of the Rolls-Royce Mustang X development project, the Allison engine was replaced by the Rolls-Royce Merlin 65 with a two-stage supercharger, significantly improving the aircraft's performance at altitudes above 15,000 feet (4,600 m).

The P-51D version, the most recognizable, was powered by the Packard V-1650-7 engine, a licensed version of the Merlin 66, and armed with six AN/M2 Browning .50 caliber (12.7 mm) machine guns. From late 1943 to 1945, the P-51B and P-51C, and later also the P-51D, were used by the USAAF Eighth Air Force to escort bombers during raids on Germany. The RAF and the USAAF Ninth Air Force used Mustangs with Merlin engines as fighter-bombers, contributing to the Allies' air superiority in 1944.

During World War II, Mustang pilots reported the destruction of 4,950 enemy aircraft. At the beginning of the Korean War, the Mustang, renamed F-51, was the main fighter of the USA before its role was taken over by jet aircraft such as the F-86 Sabre. Despite the emergence of jets, the Mustang remained in service with some air forces until the early 1980s. After the Korean War, Mustangs became popular civilian racing and display aircraft.

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.