USN TBF-1C Bitwa o Zatokę Leyte 1:48 Academy 12340

Plastic model airplane to assemble: USN TBF-1C Battle of Leyte Gulf 1:48 Academy 12340

The plastic model to assemble: USN TBF-1C Battle of Leyte Gulf 1:48 Academy 12340 is an excellent proposition for aviation enthusiasts and World War II history buffs. This detailed model depicts the American torpedo bomber Grumman TBF Avenger, which played a key role in the war efforts in the Pacific.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:48
• Accurately reproduced cockpit and landing gear
• Precisely engraved panel lines and rivets
• Ability to build the bomb bay in open or closed position
• The set includes bombs and a torpedo

Decals with six marking options:

• TBF-ICs of VT-20, USS Enterprise, 1944
• TBF-ICs of VC-42, USS Bogue, 1944
• TBF/TBM-ICs of VT-51, USS San Jacinto, 1944
• TBF-1C of VT-2, USS Hornet, 1944
• TBF-1C of VT-18, USS Intrepid, 1944
• TBF-1C of VT-19, USS Lexington (CV-16), 1944

History of the Grumman TBF Avenger: The Grumman TBF Avenger, also known as TBM, was one of the most important torpedo bombers used by the United States Navy during World War II. It first entered service in 1942 and made its combat debut during the Battle of Midway. Despite initial losses, the Avenger became the most effective torpedo bomber of the war, contributing to the sinking of the super battleships Yamato and Musashi, as well as around 30 submarines.

The Avenger was primarily produced by Grumman, and later by the Eastern Aircraft Division of General Motors. The TBF-1C version represented by the model had an increased range due to additional fuel tanks. These aircraft were used in many key battles, including the Battle of Guadalcanal and the Battle of Leyte, where they played a significant role in sinking Japanese ships.

Famous pilots and events: Among the famous pilots of Avengers was future U.S. President George H. W. Bush, who flew a TBM Avenger from the USS San Jacinto. His plane was shot down in 1944, but he managed to drop his payload on target before evacuation. Another well-known crew member was actor Paul Newman, who served as a rear gunner.

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.