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Junkers Ju-87 D3 Stuka – 601 Sqn RAF, Captured Eagle, Libya 1942

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1 in stock

£57.99

1 in stock

Hobby Master 1/72 scale HA0135: Junkers Ju-87 D3 Stuka in the captured livery of 601 Sqn RAF based at Sidi Haneish strip LG 13, Libya in Nov 1942. Model looks superb in splinter camouflage with yellow undersides and RAF markings. Limited edition of 1,300 pieces complete with uniquely numbered card. The Ju 87 was considered as one of the most important German military aircraft during WWII. It was better known as the “Stuka” which means “Dive Bomber”.

Length 6.25 inches Wingspan 7.5 inches

In late July 1942 eighteen Jeeps with SAS members began their initial attacks on LGs ( British term -Landing Grounds) landing strips. There were a string of these strips around Sidi Haneish 70 miles from El Alamein. During these attacks hundreds of German planes were destroyed but some were captured with little or no damage. The 601 Squadron became the owner of an Italian Air Force Stuka “D” from LG 13. The squadron added RAF markings as well as the squadron code “UF”. The “Captured Stuka” had its bombs and machine guns removed and it was used from November 1942 to February 1943.

While the Ju 87 achieved great success during the beginning of WWII due to its accuracy in bombing, it suffered from lack of speed and defense armament. Without the escort of German fighters the Stuka easily became preys for enemy high speed fighters. After the Battle of Britain the Ju 87 was seldom seen in actions in the continent.

In 1940, the Ju 87 D (the “Dora” series), with a more powerful engine Jumo 122F, was developed for the attack of heavily defended targets. In 1943, with the approaching invasion of Russia, the Ju87 G “Gustav” was developed for anti-tank purpose. It was fitted with two 37mm cannons under the main wing and the number 1 ace of it was the legendary Oberst (Colonel) Hans Ulrich Rudel who had achieved over 500 kills of Russian armor include one battle ship destruction.

Designed to function as a close support aircraft, the Ju 87 was first flown on September 17th, 1935. The Ju 87 had an innovative design that included automatic dive brakes under each wing—a feature that protected against the consequences of pilot blackout by ensuring recovery from an attack dive. Crewed by a pilot and rear gunner, the Ju 87 had a bomb that swung away from the propeller on an elongated U-shaped crutch. Its inverted gull wings improved pilot-to-ground visibility, gave the undercarriage a shorter height and made the Ju 87 instantly recognisable to its enemies.

Sold By : Plane Store SKU: HA0135 Categories: ,
Weight 1.2 kg