Boeing B-17E USAaf Pacific Theater 1:72 Academy 12533

Plastic model airplane to assemble: Boeing B-17E USAAF Pacific Theater 1:72 Academy 12533

Dive into aviation history with the assembly model depicting the Boeing B-17E, one of the most famous bombers of World War II. This 1:72 scale model from Academy is a great opportunity to recreate the legendary aircraft that played a key role in the war efforts in the Pacific.

Model details:

• Scale: 1:72
• Manufacturer: Academy
• Catalog number: 12533

Model features:

• Accurately reproduced cockpit and landing gear
• Precisely made panel lines and rivets

The set includes Cartograf decals for three different versions:

• B-17E41-2458 'YANKEE DIDD'LER' from 65th BS/43rd BG, Southwest Pacific, 1942-43
• B-17E41-9227 'YANKEE DOODLE Jr.' from 431st BS/11th BG, South Pacific, 1942-43
• B-17E UNKNOWN from 19th BG after being captured by Japanese Air Forces, Bandung airbase, spring 1942

History of the Boeing B-17: The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress is an American four-engine heavy bomber that was developed in the 1930s for the United States Army Air Corps (USAAC). Known for its speed and ability to fly at high altitudes, the B-17 dropped more bombs than any other aircraft during World War II, primarily in the European theater of operations. It was the third most produced bomber in history, after the American four-engine Consolidated B-24 Liberator and the German twin-engine Junkers Ju 88.

The B-17 was also used in transport, anti-submarine warfare, and search and rescue missions. Its reputation as a durable aircraft was underscored by stories and photos of heavily damaged B-17s that safely returned to base.

The B-17E version was the first model focused mainly on offensive military operations. It was significantly modified compared to earlier versions, with an extended fuselage, larger tail, and new gunner positions. These changes increased the aircraft's weight by 20%.

The B-17E played an important role in the Pacific War, where it conducted raids on Japanese ships and airfields. However, its main task was to participate in daytime strategic bombing raids over Europe, where it supported RAF night bombings by attacking German industrial, military, and civilian targets.

Preserved examples: As of January 2025, four B-17 aircraft remain airworthy, and about 50 have survived in storage or as static exhibits. The oldest of these is The Swoose, a B-17D that participated in the fighting in the Pacific on the first day of the United States' involvement in World War II.

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.