The P-39 Airacobra was designed in 1937 in response to a tender by the U.S. ArmyAir Corps. In many respects the P-39 Airacobra was an unusual aircraft. The basic idea was to install a powerful engine as close as possible to the aircraft's centre of gravity in order to improve manoeuvrability and stability. An Oldsmobile T-9 37 mm cannon fired through an opening in the propeller spinner. The P-39 was the first American fighter to fitted with a freely rotating nose-wheel. The Airacobra also aroused interest in the British Air Force, the RAF however later rejected the aircraft. The Russian Air Force also expressed strong interest in the aircraft and initially took delivery of 179 units. The U.S. Army Corps also equipped some of its newly formed units with theP-39, including the 8th and 35th Fighter Groups which operated out of New Guinea. Often underrated in the West the P-39 proved to be an exceptional aircraft in the Far East. Its top speed of 580 km/h was sufficient to dominate an A6M Zero in a dogfight.
Detailed Surface with recessed Panel Joints,;- Detailed Cockpit with Instrument Panel
- Radio Rack behind the Cockpit
- Separate Ailerons and Elevator
- Detailed Undercarriage
- Detailed Exhaust Assembly
- Detailed front Undercarriage Bay
- One Auxiliary Fuel Tank
- Separate Access Doors
Super Decal Set for an Airacutie and a USAAF version:
- Bell P-39D Airacobra of 36th Fighter Squadron, 8th Fighter Group at Milne Bay, New Guinea, Pacific; 1943
- Bell P-39D Airacobra of 36th Fighter Squadron, 8th Fighter Group at New Guinea, Pacific; 1943
Colors: 5 9 15 46 47 76 83 90 91 99 302 330 360 364 |
