1:72 P-47D Thunderbolt

Republic P-47D Thunderbolt 1:72 (Tamiya)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the American fighter aircraft of the Second World War in 1:72 scale from the Japanese maker Tamiya. This kit captures the early P-47D version with the dorsal spine behind the cockpit and the framed canopy, nicknamed the razorback. The model has a well detailed cockpit and engine, and according to the instructions the flaps can be assembled raised or lowered and external stores can be fitted. (Note: this is the razorback, that is a different version from the P-47D Bubbletop with the teardrop canopy.)

The real subject

The Republic P-47 Thunderbolt was among the largest and most robust single-seat fighters of the Second World War. It was powered by a strong radial engine with a turbocharger and the machine stood out for its resilience and for the weight of armament it could carry. The early P-47D versions had a dorsal spine behind the cockpit, which is why they were called razorbacks; these machines proved themselves as fighters and as destroyers of ground targets over Europe and in the Pacific.

Building and painting tips

Use liquid cement for plastic and work in subassemblies. Finish and paint the cockpit and the engine before you close the fuselage up, and mask the framed canopy. Lay down a primer before painting and spray with an airbrush. Good acrylic or enamel paints suit the period American schemes and the natural metal areas alike; choose the external stores to match the scheme you pick.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of American fighters of the Second World War
• Fans of the Thunderbolt and of its early razorback version
• Modelers who will appreciate the precise Tamiya parts
• Suitable for less experienced builders in 1:72 scale too

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.