USN XF5F-1 Skyrocket 1:48 Academy 12363

Plastic model kit for assembly: USN XF5F-1 Skyrocket 1:48 Academy 12363

The Grumman XF5F-1 Skyrocket is one of the most distinctive prototype fighter aircraft developed for the United States Navy (U.S. Navy) in the late 1930s. This experimental, twin-engine carrier-based fighter was distinguished by its unique design, where the leading edge of the wing was located in front of the fuselage nose.

Powered by two counter-rotating Wright R-1820 Cyclone radial engines, the Skyrocket achieved a top speed of 358 mph and was characterized by an impressive rate of climb, reaching an altitude of 10,000 feet in just over four minutes. During dive tests, this machine managed to reach speeds of up to 485 mph. Only one prototype was built, which first flew on April 1, 1940. It served for research purposes until an accident in late 1944, after which it was dismantled.

The Academy model kit (catalog number 12363) is a re-release that combines elements allowing for the construction of the model in two configurations that were originally available as separate kits:

• Early version: with a short nose and short engine nacelles.
• Late version: with an extended nose and extended engine nacelles.

Painting and marking options:

• USN, early XF5F-1 Skyrocket, Spring 1940.
• USN, late XF5F-1 Skyrocket, December 1944.

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:48
• Length: approx. 180 mm

Kit for self-assembly and painting. Does not include paints or glue. Assembly requires separately sold modeling tools (including nippers, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g., Tamiya Extra Thin Cement). The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.