P-51C Mustang 1:72 Academy 12441

Plastic model airplane to assemble: P-51C Mustang 1:72 Academy 12441

The plastic model to assemble P-51C Mustang in 1:72 scale from the renowned company Academy is an excellent proposition for model-making enthusiasts and aviation history buffs. This model faithfully depicts one of the most famous American fighters from World War II and the Korean War.

Model characteristics:

• Scale: 1:72
• Manufacturer: Academy
• Catalog number: 12441

Original P-51C Mustang aircraft:

The North American P-51 Mustang is an American long-range fighter that played a crucial role during World War II and the Korean War. Designed in 1940 by a team led by James H. Kindelberger from North American Aviation, the Mustang was created in response to the needs of the British Purchasing Commission. Initially, it was to be produced under license as the Curtiss P-40 for the Royal Air Force (RAF), but NAA proposed creating a modern fighter, resulting in the prototype NA-73X.

Initially, the Mustang was equipped with an Allison V-1710 engine, which limited its performance at high altitudes. A breakthrough occurred in 1942 when, as part of the Rolls-Royce Mustang X project, a Rolls-Royce Merlin 65 engine with a two-stage supercharger was installed. This change significantly improved the aircraft's performance at altitudes above 15,000 feet (4,600 m), making the Mustang a formidable opponent for German Luftwaffe fighters.

From late 1943 to 1945, the P-51B and P-51C were used by the Eighth Air Force USAAF to escort bombers during raids on Germany. The RAF and the Ninth Air Force USAAF used the Mustang as a fighter-bomber, contributing to the air superiority of the Allies in 1944. Mustangs were also used in campaigns in North Africa, the Mediterranean, Italy, and the Pacific. Mustang pilots reported the destruction of 4,950 enemy aircraft during World War II.

At the beginning of the Korean War, the Mustang, renamed F-51, was the main fighter of the United States before its role was taken over by jets such as the F-86 Sabre. Mustangs then became specialized fighter-bombers. Despite the emergence of jets, Mustangs remained in service with some air forces until the early 1980s. After the Korean War, Mustangs became popular civilian racing and demonstration 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.