AIRFIX : REF : A07115A : 1:48 : German Junkers : Ju87 R-2/B-2 ("Stuka")

This 1:48 scale model beautifully represents the Junkers Ju-87 Stuka, one of the most iconic aircraft from the Second World War. Known for its inverted gull-wing design, this dive-bomber and ground-attack plane model consists of 161 parts and offers two different paint options. With its unique silhouette and Skill Level 3 complexity, this kit replicates the powerful aircraft that could accommodate a two-man crew, carry up to four machine guns, and transport 1800kg of bombs, all driven by a single V-12 Junkers Jumo engine. Once assembled, the model spans an impressive 288mm across the wings.

Key Features :

• 161 piece model kit in 1:48 scale
• Choice of two authentic paint schemes
• Skill Level 3 build suitable for ages 8 and above
• Inverted gull-wing design faithfully reproduced
• Completed wingspan of 288mm
• Detailed cockpit for two-man crew
• Includes decals and full assembly instructions

History :

The Junkers Ju-87 Stuka took its maiden flight in 1935 and became one of the most recognisable and feared aircraft during the Second World War. The term 'Stuka' is derived from the German word Sturzkampfflugzeug, which translates to dive-bomber, and this aircraft was specifically engineered for precision bombing missions.

Unusually large for a dive-bomber, the Stuka was powered by a single V-12 Junkers Jumo engine and weighed over four tonnes. Despite its size, it could carry a substantial 1800kg of bombs and was equipped with up to four machine guns. The aircraft was operated by a two-man team, consisting of a pilot and a rear gunner, seated in a tandem cockpit beneath the distinctive inverted gull-wing structure.

The Stuka's unique design included fixed, spatted landing gear and its signature cranked wings. It was equipped with automatic pull-up dive brakes located under the wings, enabling steep dives followed by automatic recovery. Notoriously, it featured the Jericho-Trompete, or 'Jericho Trumpet' - a siren mounted on the undercarriage that emitted a chilling sound during dives, intended to instill fear in those below.

The Ju-87 B-2 was the most produced variant, widely used in the early years of the war across various theatres. The R-2 variant was developed for long-range missions, particularly for anti-shipping purposes, with extended range achieved through additional fuel capacity and underwing drop tanks.

The Stuka was highly effective during the Blitzkrieg campaigns in Poland and France, where it operated with air superiority. However, during the Battle of Britain, the slow and poorly defended aircraft suffered significant losses against modern fighters. Despite this, it continued to perform effectively on the Eastern Front and in the Mediterranean, where Luftwaffe ace Hans-Ulrich Rudel famously completed over 2,530 combat missions in this aircraft.

The Stuka remains one of the most recognisable aircraft silhouettes from the Second World War, with its distinctive look and infamous reputation securing its place in aviation history.