ICM 48233 – Junkers Ju 88A-4, 1:48 WWII German Bomber

Plastic model kit of the Junkers Ju 88A-4 aircraft in 1:48 scale

ICM 48233 represents the Junkers Ju 88A-4 — the key bomber version of the series, introduced in spring 1941 in response to the growing demand for greater range, stronger armament, and increased bomb load capacity. Compared to the earlier A-5, the A-4 differed primarily through its Jumo 211J-1 or J-2 engines producing 1,340–1,400 hp, reinforced landing gear, heavier armor protection, and improved defensive positions equipped with MG 81J machine guns instead of MG 15s. The A-4 became the most extensively produced bomber variant of the entire Ju 88 family and participated in all major Luftwaffe operations from 1941 until the end of the war.

The model uses the same tooling as the A-5 series, but includes a new sprue with engine nacelles characteristic of the A-4 version, along with a suitably modified cockpit canopy. The model’s engineering, with the fuselage divided into two full-length halves and a lower center section, ensures the correct wing dihedral angle. Both engine nacelles with detailed Jumo 211 engines can be displayed fully or partially exposed.

Inside the box:

• 236 plastic parts and 20 clear parts
• Two Jumo 211J engines with optional full or partial display
• Separate control surfaces (ailerons, flaps, rudders)
• Engine nacelles with radiator flaps in the open position
• Water-slide decal sheet for 4 Luftwaffe marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:48
• Catalog number: 48233
• Manufacturer: ICM
• Finished model length: approx. 300 mm, wingspan: approx. 418 mm
• Difficulty level: intermediate

Note: The kit does not include glue, paints, or modeling tools. The model requires self-assembly.

Model assembly:

This model is intended for modelers with moderate experience. The fit of the parts is good, although the large number of components requires careful planning of the assembly sequence. The cockpit should be completed and painted before joining the fuselage halves. For an even better final effect, dedicated Eduard photo-etched detail sets for the cockpit interior (set no. 49782) are recommended.

For Luftwaffe camouflage schemes from 1941–1944, the recommended colors are RLM 70 Schwarzgrün and RLM 71 Dunkelgrün on the upper surfaces, with RLM 65 Hellblau underneath. The manufacturer’s decal sheet does not include tail swastikas — these must be sourced from aftermarket decal sheets.

Essential tools:

• Modeling sprue cutters for removing parts from the frames
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper
• Plastic cement
• Brushes in various sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Model wash for highlighting details

About the aircraft – Junkers Ju 88A-4:

The Ju 88A-4 was the most widely produced version of the entire Ju 88 bomber family — thousands were built and operated on nearly every front where the Luftwaffe fought. The more powerful Jumo 211J engines allowed an increased bomb load (up to 2,000 kg internally, with even more carried externally) while also improving performance. This version served as a level bomber, dive bomber, and torpedo bomber, while its airframe became the basis for later variants such as the D-1 reconnaissance aircraft, the C-6 heavy fighter, and the A-14 torpedo bomber. The Ju 88A-4 remained in service until the end of World War II, and several hundred examples were transferred to Germany’s allies including Romania, Hungary, and Finland.

Technical specifications of the original aircraft (Ju 88A-4):

• Length: approx. 14.4 m
• Wingspan: 20.08 m
• Height: approx. 4.85 m
• Maximum takeoff weight: approx. 14,000 kg
• Crew: 4
• Powerplant: two Jumo 211J-1 or J-2 engines, approx. 1,340 hp each
• Maximum speed: approx. 470 km/h
• Range: approx. 2,430 km
• Defensive armament: MG 81J 7.92 mm machine guns in several positions
• Bomb load: up to 2,000 kg internally plus external hardpoints

About the manufacturer – ICM:

ICM is a Ukrainian model company based in Kyiv, highly regarded by modelers worldwide for its precise injection molds and steadily expanding catalog. The Ju 88 series in 1:48 scale is one of the manufacturer’s flagship projects — covering more than a dozen variants of the aircraft and forming one of the most comprehensive model series dedicated to a single aircraft type in this scale. ICM kits are known for their recessed panel lines, detailed interiors, and strong attention to the historical accuracy of each individual variant.