Plastic model aircraft BELL P-39 Q/N "AIRACOBRA" 1943 1:32

KH32013 - Plastic Model Aircraft BELL P-39 Q/N "AIRACOBRA" 1943

The P-39 Airacobra is an American fighter aircraft of World War II built by the Bell Aircraft Corporation. This aircraft's unconventional design features its engine located in the middle of the fuselage, driving a propeller at the front via a long drive shaft passing between the pilot's legs. A 37 mm cannon firing through the propeller hub dictated this configuration, allowing the placement of the nosewheel of the tricycle landing gear in the aircraft's nose. The cockpit entry, with a panoramic canopy, was through a car-style door, avoiding the usual acrobatics associated with sliding canopies.

Tested in 1939, the XP-39 prototype with a turbocharger showed promising high-altitude characteristics and led to multiple orders. However, the production model, heavier and without a turbocharger, proved disappointing at high altitudes against enemy fighters, quickly specializing in ground support on the Mediterranean and Pacific fronts. In contrast, it was highly appreciated in Russia for its performance at medium and low altitudes. The Q and N versions were equipped with an Allison V-1710-85 engine, with 2,095 units produced.

The kit offered by Kitty Hawk allows the assembly of one of two versions with the following decorations:

    USAF: 71st TFS, 82nd TFG, 

    French Air Force: GC III/6 "Roussillon"

    Soviet Air Force: 30th GvIAP and 213th GvIAP

    Co-belligerent Italian Air Force: 9th Gruppo, 4th Stormo