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Scale: 1/48
Wingspan: 8"
Length: 10"
Code: AP51BDJT
This collectable model P-51D Mustang represents the ultimate in long-range fighter development in World War II, the aircraft that was finally able to escort bombers from bases in England to targets deep in Germany. This 1/48-scale model P-51D Mustang makes a great pilot gift, or a present for any veteran, aviation enthusiast or history buff.
This iconic American aircraft of World War II, which also served in combat in Korea, actually began as a British aircraft. Designed and flown in just 178 days in response to a British proposal for a fighter-bomber. British officials wanted North American Aviation to build the Curtiss P-40 Tomahawk under license, but NAA President James “Dutch” Kindelburger persuaded them that his company could build a new, better design in less time.
The NA-73 project featured two innovations: an efficient laminar-flow wing developed by the National Advisory Committee of Aeronautics, and a radiator design that used exiting hot air to provide a modicum of additional thrust. The XP-51 showed good performance at low altitudes, and the British government placed orders for several hundred of the fighters. In 1942, the Army Air Forces placed an order for 320 P-51As, as well as orders for a dive bomber variant, the A-36. Also in 1942, the Mustang received the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine – and the results were magic. High altitude performance exceeded expectations, with the Merlin-powered Mustang topping 440 mph in tests.
One of the few remaining complaints with the Merlin-powered aircraft was a poor rearward view. This was a common problem in most fighter designs of the era, which had only been recognized by the British after the Battle of Britain proved the value of an all-around view. In order to improve the view from the Mustang at least partially, the British had field-modified some Mustangs with fishbowl-shaped sliding canopies called "Malcolm hoods" - much like those on Spitfires. Eventually all Mk IIIs, along with some American P-51B/Cs, were equipped with Malcolm Hoods.
A better solution to the problem was the "teardrop" or "bubble" canopy. Originally developed as part of the Miles M.20 project, these newer canopies were in the process of being adapted to most British designs, eventually appearing on Typhoons, Tempests and later-built Spitfires. North American adapted several NA-106 prototypes with a bubble canopy, cutting away the decking behind the cockpit, resulting in substantially improved vision to the rear. This led to the production P-51D (NA-109), considered the definitive Mustang.