AMP 72023 - 1:72 Northrop M2-F3

1:72 scale plastic model kit of the Northrop M2-F3 experimental aircraft

The AMP 72023 kit reproduces the Northrop M2-F3 – a NASA experimental lifting-body aircraft developed in the 1960s and 1970s. The M2-F3 was designed to investigate flight characteristics of wingless reentry vehicles that would later inspire the Space Shuttle program. It was a rebuilt version of the damaged M2-F2, fitted with a third vertical stabilizer to improve flight stability.

Included in the kit:

• High-quality injection-moulded plastic parts
• Accurately shaped lifting-body fuselage
• Clear parts for the cockpit canopy
• Landing gear components for parked display
• Decals with NASA markings and serial numbers
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model technical data:

• Scale: 1:72
• Length: approx. 16 cm
• Manufacturer: AMP
• Skill level: Intermediate

Note: Glue, paints and tools are not included. The model requires assembly and painting.

Assembly & finishing

The kit offers excellent surface detail and precise fitting. The model looks impressive in NASA’s classic white and blue colour scheme with red stabilizer tips. Ideal for enthusiasts of experimental aviation and spaceflight research projects.

Essential tools

• Sprue cutters or hobby knife
• Files or sanding sticks
• Detail brushes
• Plastic cement
• Acrylic paints (NASA colour scheme: white, red, blue, black)

About the Northrop M2-F3

The Northrop M2-F3 was a NASA lifting-body research vehicle developed to study the aerodynamics of wingless reentry craft. It was a modified version of the M2-F2 that crashed in 1967, rebuilt with an additional vertical stabilizer to improve control. The M2-F3 flew between 1970 and 1972, paving the way for the aerodynamic concepts later used in the Space Shuttle and modern reentry vehicles.

Original aircraft data:

• Length: approx. 9.1 m
• Wingspan: approx. 2.9 m
• Weight: approx. 3.5 t
• Powerplant: Reaction Motors XLR11 rocket engine
• Maximum speed: approx. 1050 km/h
• Manufacturer: Northrop / NASA

About the manufacturer

AMP is a Ukrainian model company specializing in unique and historically significant aviation subjects. Known for detailed kits of research and experimental aircraft, AMP’s 1:72 Northrop M2-F3 captures one of NASA’s most distinctive test vehicles in impressive miniature form.