Miniart 48043 - 1:48 P-47D-20RA Thunderbolt Saipan 1944 Advanced Kit

1:48 scale plastic model kit of the P-47D-20RA Thunderbolt fighter (Advanced Kit)

MiniArt 48043 is an assembly kit reproducing the American P-47D-20RA Thunderbolt fighter – one of the heaviest single-engine fighters of WWII, valued for its toughness, heavy armament and high-altitude performance. This is the elaborate Advanced Kit version, referencing operations over Saipan in 1944.

The model offers a high level of detail, including a full, reproduced radial engine, weighted wheels and photo-etched parts. This lets you build the aircraft with the powerplant exposed and give the landing gear a realistic look. The included decals allow the model to be finished in one of four paint schemes.

What's in the box:

• Plastic parts and clear parts
• Full, reproduced radial engine
• Weighted landing-gear wheels
• Photo-etched parts
• Decal sheet for 4 paint schemes
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Kit specifications:

• Scale: 1:48
• Catalogue number: 48043
• Manufacturer: MiniArt
• Assembled length: approx. 229 mm
• Model wingspan: approx. 259 mm
• Skill level: intermediate/advanced (full engine, photo-etched parts)

Note: The kit does not include glue, paints or modelling tools. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Building the model:

This is an elaborate model for modellers with some experience. It is worth painting and finishing the full radial engine before closing up the cowling – an exposed powerplant adds considerably to the effect. Modelling tweezers and cyanoacrylate glue are useful for the photo-etched parts. The weighted wheels look good with the landing gear carefully aligned. The paint schemes are matched to specific machines; details and panel lines can be emphasised with a wash, and the whole finished with a varnish chosen to suit the chosen scheme.

Tools you will need:

• Modelling side cutters for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper for smoothing sprue-gate marks and seams
• Plastic cement and cyanoacrylate glue for the photo-etched parts
• Precision modelling tweezers
• Airbrush or brushes and modelling paints
• A wash to bring out panel lines and details

About the aircraft – P-47 Thunderbolt:

The Republic P-47 Thunderbolt was one of the most important American fighters of WWII. It stood out for its great weight, rugged construction and powerful armament of eight heavy machine guns. Powered by a turbo-supercharged radial engine, it performed well at high altitude, and thanks to its toughness it was also effective in attacks on ground targets.

The P-47D was the most numerously produced variant of the Thunderbolt. These aircraft fought on many theatres, including the Pacific, where they supported operations such as the fighting over Saipan in 1944. The combination of range, firepower and resistance to damage earned the Thunderbolt a reputation as an exceptionally effective and reliable aircraft.

Original aircraft specifications (P-47D Thunderbolt):

• Type: single-seat fighter / fighter-bomber
• Crew: 1 pilot
• Powerplant: turbo-supercharged Pratt & Whitney R-2800 radial engine
• Gun armament: eight 12.7 mm machine guns
• Length: approx. 11 m
• Wingspan: approx. 12.4 m
• Service period: Second World War

About the manufacturer – MiniArt:

MiniArt is a Ukrainian model company known for highly detailed kits covering military vehicles, aircraft, figures, buildings and diorama accessories. In its aircraft lines the brand offers Advanced Kit versions with full interiors and a reproduced engine, as well as photo-etched parts. MiniArt products are aimed at demanding modellers who value rich detail and faithful reproduction.