Italeri 2841 - 1:48 SBD-3 Dauntless

1:48 scale plastic model kit of the Douglas SBD-3 Dauntless

The Italeri 2841 kit depicts the Douglas SBD-3 Dauntless, the iconic US Navy dive bomber that became a symbol of American air power in the Pacific Theater. The SBD-3 variant, introduced in 1941, featured improved armor protection, self-sealing fuel tanks, and enhanced range — qualities that made it one of the most effective carrier-based aircraft of World War II.

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:48
• Model length: approx. 21.5 cm
• Manufacturer: Italeri
• Difficulty level: intermediate

Note: The kit does not include glue, paints, or modeling tools. Assembly required.

About the build:

This Italeri kit offers finely detailed plastic parts reproducing the Dauntless’s distinctive perforated dive brakes, detailed cockpit, and bomb bay. The model can be built with landing gear extended or retracted. The included decals provide several historically accurate US Navy and Marine Corps marking options from 1942.

Recommended tools:

• Modeling knife or sprue cutters
• Files or sanding papers
• Fine brushes or airbrush
• Plastic cement
• Acrylic or enamel paints in US Navy colors (blue-gray over light gray)

About the Douglas SBD-3 Dauntless:

The Douglas SBD Dauntless was the main US Navy dive bomber during the early years of World War II. The SBD-3 variant saw extensive action from 1942, including the Battle of Midway, where Dauntless pilots sank four Japanese aircraft carriers — a turning point in the Pacific War. Combining precision, ruggedness, and deadly effectiveness, the Dauntless earned a legendary reputation as the aircraft that turned the tide of the war at sea.

Aircraft data:

• Manufacturer: Douglas Aircraft Company
• Crew: 2
• Engine: Wright R-1820-52 Cyclone, 1000 hp
• Maximum speed: approx. 410 km/h
• Range: approx. 1800 km
• Armament: 2 × 12.7 mm MGs, 2 × 7.62 mm MGs, 1 × 454 kg bomb
• Length: approx. 10.1 m
• Wingspan: 12.7 m

About Italeri:

Italeri is a well-known Italian manufacturer of high-quality plastic model kits in popular scales. Their aircraft range combines accuracy, fine detail, and excellent fit, making them a favorite among both hobbyists and experienced model builders.