ICM 48240 – Junkers Ju 88D-1, 1:48 WWII German Reconnaissance Plane

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

ICM 48240 represents the Junkers Ju 88D-1 — the first production reconnaissance version of the Ju 88 family, introduced into service in early 1941. The aircraft was based on the A-4 airframe and equipped with Rb 70/30 (long-range/high-altitude), Rb 50/30, or Rb 20/30 (low-altitude) photographic cameras installed in the fuselage behind the rear bomb bay section. The cameras were accessible through the bomb bay compartment. The Ju 88D-1 quickly became the most widely used reconnaissance variant of the D-series, operating on every front where the Luftwaffe fought — from the Arctic to North Africa.

The model introduces a new fuselage sprue prepared for camera window openings (according to the manufacturer’s instructions, the modeler drills them in the appropriate locations) along with FuBL2 antenna elements repositioned toward the rear fuselage. The high-quality molding, precise recessed panel lines, and detailed cockpit remain consistent with the entire ICM Ju 88 series.

Inside the box:

• 233 plastic and clear parts
• Fuselage prepared for photographic camera window openings
• Two Jumo 211 engines with optional display
• Separate control surfaces
• Water-slide decal sheet for 4 marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:48
• Catalog number: 48240
• Manufacturer: ICM
• Finished model length: approx. 299 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:

A distinctive stage of the D-1 build is drilling two ∅6 mm openings in the fuselage for the camera windows according to the layout shown in the instructions. ICM’s relatively soft plastic allows precise drilling, although the use of step drill bits or a rotary cutter is recommended to avoid damaging the material. The finished openings should be smoothed with sanding paper. The camouflage schemes include standard RLM 70/71/65 patterns (Norway, Russia), desert RLM 79/80/78 camouflage (Libya), as well as winter whitewash finishes (Eastern Front 1942).

Essential tools:

• Modeling sprue cutters for removing parts from the frames
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper
• Plastic cement
• Pin vise or hobby drill with a ∅6 mm drill bit (for camera openings)
• Brushes in various sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Model wash for highlighting details

About the aircraft – Junkers Ju 88D-1:

The Ju 88D-1 was the first production reconnaissance variant of the Ju 88 family. Its high speed and long range — inherited from the A-4 bomber — made it an ideal platform for photographic missions deep behind enemy lines. The cameras installed behind the rear bomb bay allowed targets to be photographed immediately before departure from the target area, providing valuable tactical intelligence. Ju 88D-1 aircraft served from 1941 until the end of World War II in reconnaissance groups (Aufklärungsgruppen) on all fronts: over the Atlantic, in Africa, the Balkans, and on the Eastern Front. The characteristic absence of standard bomb racks under the wings distinguished the reconnaissance D-1 from the bomber versions of the A-series.

Technical specifications of the original aircraft (Ju 88D-1):

• Length: approx. 14.4 m
• Wingspan: 20.08 m
• Crew: 4
• Powerplant: two Jumo 211J engines, approx. 1,340 hp each
• Maximum speed: approx. 470 km/h
• Range: over 2,000 km (without auxiliary fuel tanks)
• Photographic equipment: Rb 70/30, Rb 50/30 and/or Rb 20/30 cameras
• Defensive armament: MG 81 machine guns in several positions

About the manufacturer – ICM:

ICM is a Ukrainian model company based in Kyiv whose 1:48 scale Ju 88 series covers all major variants of this aircraft — from bombers and torpedo aircraft to night fighters and reconnaissance versions. ICM kits are distinguished by their precision in reproducing exterior details, recessed panel lines, and highly detailed interiors. Kit 48240 was the first to offer modelers the possibility of building a Ju 88D-1 in 1:48 scale without the need to convert other kits.