USAF KC-97L Stratofreighter 1: 144 Academy 12640

Plastic model airplane to assemble: USAF KC-97L Stratofreighter 1:144 Academy 12640

We present the plastic model to assemble of the USAF KC-97L Stratofreighter in 1:144 scale, produced by the renowned company Academy. This detailed model allows you to recreate one of the most iconic refueling aircraft in the history of military aviation in the United States.

Model details:

• Scale: 1:144
• Manufacturer: Academy
• Catalog number: 12640
• Material: Plastic

History and development of the KC-97 Stratofreighter:

The Boeing KC-97 Stratofreighter is a four-engine, piston-powered tanker aircraft that played a key role in the strategic operations of the United States Air Force. Based on the design of the Boeing C-97 Stratofreighter, the KC-97 was designed as an aerial refueling tanker, replacing the earlier KB-29 model and was later replaced by the Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker.

The KC-97 Stratofreighter was a modification of the C-97, which in turn was based on the design of the Boeing B-29 Superfortress bomber. This aircraft was equipped with the necessary tanks, installations, and a refueling boom, allowing for effective in-flight refueling. The upper deck of the aircraft was spacious enough to accommodate oversized cargo, with large side doors providing access. The fuel tanks were located on the lower deck, and both decks were heated and pressurized, enabling operations at high altitudes.

Operational history:

The KC-97 began service in the USAF in 1950. In total, Boeing delivered 811 units of this model, making it one of the most important tanker aircraft of its time. These aircraft were crucial for strategic operations involving the Boeing B-47 Stratojet, including reconnaissance missions from Thule Air Base in the Arctic.

During Operation Creek Party, which began in 1967 and lasted for 10 years, KC-97 tankers supported USAF and NATO units in Europe. Despite its effectiveness, the KC-97 had some limitations related to low speed and operational altitude, making it difficult to refuel faster jet aircraft. In the 1960s, to improve these parameters, two General Electric J47 jet engines were added to the KC-97L, increasing its speed and compatibility with fighter aircraft such as the F-84, F-100, and F-101.

In 1956, the Strategic Air Command began phasing out the KC-97 in favor of the more modern KC-135 Stratotanker. Nevertheless, the KC-97 continued to serve in the Tactical Air Command, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard until 1978, when they were completely retired.

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.