Messerschmitt Me262A-1a
Scale: 1/72
Item # 12410

The Messerschmitt Me262 was the first operational jet fighter in
the world. Its Jumo 004 turbo jet powerplants and swept wing made
it one of the most extraordinary designs of World War II. The
Me262A-1a achieved an incredible top speed for its time of
870km/h(497mph) at an altitude of 6000meters(19,685 feet), nearly
200km/h faster than the North American P-51 Mustang.

The Me262A-1a were armed with four MK-108 30mm cannons in the
nose, two carried 100 rounds each, and the top two carried 80
rounds each. The 30mm cannon was extremely lethal, being capable
of carrying 24-55mm rockets, 12 under each wing. The first
serial-produced Me262A-1a took off on its maiden flight on 28
March 1944. Of the 1,430 produced only 220 were operational
before the end of the war. Of these, 120 were shot down by Allied
fighters. After the end of World War II, the Me 262 as well as
other advanced German technology was quickly swept up by both the
Soviets and the Americans. Many Me 262s were found in working
condition by both sides, and were "liberated." These aircraft
were extensively studied, producing early Soviet and US jet
fighters.

The first jet fighter practically flown by Luftwaffe
Finely engraved panel lines & rivet details
Highly detailed cockpit & landing gear bay
Authentic markings included