48161 ICM 1/48 Mustang P-51A, US air force.

Additional Information

American aircraft R-51 "Mustang"– one of the best fighters who took part in the Second World war. The aircraft was developed by the company "North American" commissioned by the Royal air force of great Britain. The prototype NA-73X made its first flight on October 26, 1940. In the UK, the aircraft was called "Mustang". The US air force is also interested in the new fighter, assigning him the designation P-51.

the Last modification with the Allison engine– P-51A– was created in 1942. The aircraft had a high speed and long range, however, the rate of climb and the ceiling were insufficient, especially for the European theater of operations. The R-51A aircraft entered service with fighter groups in India and China in mid-1943.

Modification R-51V was created in may 1943 year. It was distinguished by the installation of a powerful and high-altitude rolls-Royce Merlin engine, produced under license by Packard. The Mustang aircraft with this engine became one of the fastest fighters in the world. The aircraft had a huge range, was well armed and armored. "Mustangs", produced at the factory in Dallas, were designated as P-51S.

Aircraft delivered by lend-lease British Royal air force, called the Mustang Mk.III. They were installed convex sliding cockpit canopy, called "Malcolm Hood". This improved visibility from the cockpit.