USN PV-1 Patrol Bomber 1:72 Academy 12587

Plastic model airplane to assemble: USN PV-1 Patrol Bomber 1:72 Academy 12587

We present the model of the USN PV-1 Patrol Bomber in 1:72 scale, produced by Academy. This model is a great opportunity to recreate one of the key patrol and bomber aircraft used during World War II.

Model details:

• Scale: 1:72
• Manufacturer: Academy
• Catalog number: 12587

Model features:

• Precisely engraved panel lines that add realism and detail.
• The set includes painting masks, making it easier to achieve a precise finish on the model.

The set includes decals with six marking options, allowing you to choose one of several historical versions of the aircraft:

• PV-1 from Patrol Bombing Squadron (VPB) 150, West Field, Tinian, Mariana Islands, October 1944.
• PV-1 "Scooters Dream" from an unknown unit, Russell Islands, Solomon Islands, mid-1943.
• PV-1 "Blonde Blitz" from an unknown unit, Russell Islands, Solomon Islands, mid-1943.
• B-34 "Lexington" used by USAAF, mainly for coastal patrols and training missions.
• RB-34 "Lexington" from USAAF, Randolph Field, TX, 1942.
• "B-34", presumably used by the commander of the 128th Air Division, Colonel Michael Aleksandrovich Eryomin.

Historical background: The Lockheed Ventura, known in the US Navy as the PV-1, was a twin-engine medium bomber and patrol aircraft used during World War II. This aircraft was developed based on the Lockheed Model 18 Lodestar as a replacement for the Lockheed Hudson bombers used by the Royal Air Force. The Ventura debuted in Europe as a RAF bomber in late 1942, and in 1943 it entered service with the US Navy in the Pacific.

The Ventura was used by many armed forces, including USAAF, RAF, RCAF, RNZAF, SAAF, and the armed forces of the Soviet Union. The PV-1 version was adapted for patrol roles, with greater range and equipped with the ASD-1 radar. These aircraft were used for various tasks, including coastal patrols, anti-submarine missions, and as night fighters.

Despite mixed reviews about the Ventura, particularly among British crews who criticized its speed and armament, American crews valued it for its solid construction and durability. American versions were armed with .50 caliber machine guns, giving them an advantage in combat against Japanese fighters.

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.