HobbyMaster Diecast Model Bell P-39Q Aircobra 42-19551 USAAF 48th FS, 15th FG, 7AF Makin Island Autumn, 1943 "Devastating Devil" 1/72 Scale - HA1702 Wingspan: 5.75" Each Fully Painted and Assembled Model Features: - Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Interchangeable landing gear.
- Presention stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
- Authentic detachable ordnance.
- Opened canopies.
- Heavy metal with a minimum of plastic.
About this Model: The P-39Q has the distinction of being the most produced series with 4,905 built. The Q also was the last version of the Airacobra to be made by the Bell Aircraft company. The main difference between the Q version and earlier versions was the replacement of the 4 wing-mounted 0.30 - inch machine guns with a single 0.50 - inch machine gun mounted inside a pod attached to the bottom of each wing. The P-39Q-1-BE also regained the additional 231 pounds of armor of the P-31N-1.
US Marines recaptured Makin Island in the Gilbert Islands chain in the Fall of 1943 and immediately built an airbase. It became the home base for the 15th FG, 46th FS and their P-39s on December 18, 1943. The "Devastating Devil" pinkish sand paint scheme definitely was a stand out among all the greens. This P-39 was painted with the intention of it going to North Africa but it managed to find its way into the PTO. As well as escorts for the Makin A-24s on their bombing raids the P-39s bombed and strafed ground targets. |
