Post by Keith Heitmann on Sept 8, 2003 20:56:41 GMT -5
About the Messerschmitt Me262 A-1a
The revolutionary Messerschmitt Me262 was the first ever jet powered plane to see real action. This impressive fighter was equipped with two Jumo004B engines that allowed the Me262 to reach a top speed of 870km/h. The construction of pre-production aircraft designated Me262 A-0 started in April 1944, but the fighter production version that should have been the first version to be mass-produced was delayed because of Hitler's strict contrary orders prioritizing the deployment of the fighter/bomber A-2a version. In November 1944, the Me262 A-1a fighter version was finally put into production. It was equipped with four 30mm cannons in the nose to counter Allied bombers and escorting fighters. Late production planes were equipped with hooks under the nose to mount rocket launchers and 24 R4M air-to-air rockets under the wings, making the Me262 the most feared German fighter by Allied pilots. Production of the Jumo004B turbojet engine started in June 1944. This engine featured a compressor, and measured 3.5m in length and 0.76m in diameter. It was capable of a 900kg thrust
Click for enlarged picture with explanation
(Pictures show painted and assembled model).
About the model
Tamiya presents the plastic assembly kit of the Messerschmitt Me262 that was used by the Luftwaffe during the closing days of WWII. 1/48 Scale, Overall Length: 221mm, Overall Width: 264mm. The unique form of the Me262 with its engine nacelles under each wing has been accurately replicated. The 4 X 30mm cannon mounted in the nose, the cockpit, internal equipment, and the two Jumo004B engines have been reproduced down to the finest details. Canopy and gun bay access panels can be mounted in either open or closed position. Engines can be displayed in engine nacelles or on maintenance cart for which parts are included. R4M air-to-air rockets with launchers to be mounted under the wings and W.Gr 21 air-to-air rocket-launchers to be assembled under the nose are part of the kit. Nose wheel well comes as a die-cast weight. A pilot figure and newly designed decals for 3 different markings are included in the kit.