Arma Hobby 70083 - 1:72 Messerschmitt Me 262 A-1a

1:72 scale plastic model kit of the Messerschmitt Me 262 A-1a “Schwalbe” jet fighter

The Arma Hobby 70083 kit represents the famous German Messerschmitt Me 262 A-1a “Schwalbe”, the world’s first operational jet fighter. The model is produced using completely new tooling developed in 2025 and based on a highly accurate 3D airframe model created by Arthur Bentley, one of the most respected aviation researchers and technical illustrators.

The project focuses on accurate proportions, correct geometry and a high level of detail while maintaining a logical and modeller-friendly assembly design. The kit depicts the single-seat Me 262 A-1a fighter variant and includes characteristic features such as detailed landing gear bays, deployed leading-edge slats and external armament including R4M rockets and 250 kg bombs.

• Scale: 1:72
• Model length: approx. 14.8 cm
• Manufacturer: Arma Hobby
• Difficulty level: intermediate

Kit includes:

• two grey plastic sprues
• one clear sprue
• canopy glazing parts
• Arma Jig assembly stand for correct alignment of components
• metal nose weight for proper balance
• Cartograf decal sheet with three marking options
• canopy painting masks
• R4M rockets and 250 kg bombs
• code for downloading a 3D printable accessory file

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

Model assembly

The kit is moulded in high-quality plastic and requires assembly and painting. Parts must be removed from the sprues, cleaned, test-fitted and glued together according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once completed, the model becomes an impressive miniature of one of the most revolutionary aircraft of the Second World War.

Tools required

• modelling knife or sprue cutters
• files or sandpaper for cleaning parts
• paint brushes
• plastic cement
• model paints

About the Messerschmitt Me 262

The Messerschmitt Me 262 “Schwalbe” was the first operational jet-powered fighter aircraft in history. Developed in Germany during the final years of World War II, it represented a major technological leap in military aviation. Powered by two Junkers Jumo 004 turbojet engines, the aircraft could reach speeds exceeding 850 km/h, making it significantly faster than most Allied piston-engine fighters.

The A-1a variant served primarily as a fighter and was armed with four powerful 30 mm MK 108 cannons. In addition, some aircraft carried R4M unguided rockets designed to attack Allied bomber formations. Despite its impressive performance, the Me 262 entered service too late and in too few numbers to change the outcome of the war. After the conflict, several aircraft were operated by other countries, and a post-war version known as the Avia S-92 was produced in Czechoslovakia.

Technical data of the original aircraft:

• Length: 10.6 m
• Wingspan: 12.6 m
• Maximum speed: approx. 870 km/h
• Powerplant: 2 × Junkers Jumo 004 turbojet engines
• Armament: 4 × 30 mm MK 108 cannons, rockets or bombs

About the manufacturer

Arma Hobby is a Polish manufacturer known for producing highly accurate and well-engineered aircraft model kits. The company focuses mainly on 1:72 and 1:48 scale aircraft, combining detailed design, modern tooling technology and high-quality decals printed by leading suppliers. Arma Hobby kits are widely appreciated by modellers around the world for their accuracy and buildability.