RS Models 92314 - 1:72 DFS-230 WWII Romania and Italy

Plastic model kit of the German assault glider DFS 230 (Romania and Italy) in 1:72 scale

RS Models 92314 depicts the DFS 230 – a German assault glider of the Second World War, in the version carrying Romanian and Italian markings. The model represents one of the world's first gliders used for airborne operations, capable of delivering a group of soldiers and their equipment to the combat area.

The kit is produced using short-run technology. In addition to the plastic parts it includes photo-etched parts that raise the level of fine detail, plus clear acetate; the decal sheet covers painting schemes used by the Romanian and Italian air forces.

What's in the box:

• Plastic parts for the airframe
• Photo-etched fret for detailing
• Clear acetate parts
• Waterslide decal sheet – Romanian and Italian schemes
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Specifications:

• Scale: 1:72
• Catalogue number: 92314
• Manufacturer: RS Models
• Assembled length: approx. 156 mm, wingspan: approx. 305 mm
• Skill level: intermediate

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

Building the model:

This is a short-run kit with photo-etched parts – it is worth dry-fitting the components before gluing and carefully cleaning the sprue-gate marks from the edges. The interior of the fuselage is best painted before it is closed. The delicate photo-etched parts are best attached with cyanoacrylate glue. DFS 230 gliders were usually painted in German RLM colours with the appropriate Romanian or Italian markings according to the chosen scheme in the instructions; a matt or satin finish is recommended.

Tools you will need:

• Modelling side cutters for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper
• Plastic cement and cyanoacrylate glue (for the photo-etched parts)
• Precision modelling tweezers
• Brushes of various sizes
• Modelling paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Modelling wash to emphasise detail

About the glider – DFS 230:

The DFS 230 was a German assault glider developed by the Deutsche Forschungsanstalt für Segelflug (DFS). It was one of the world's first gliders designed for airborne troop transport and became famous during the assault on the Belgian fort Eben-Emael in 1940, when a small detachment of paratroopers landed directly on its roof.

The glider carried a pilot and nine fully equipped troops together with supplies. It was towed by various aircraft, including the Ju 52, He 111 and Bf 110. The DFS 230 was used in many operations – in the Battle of Crete, in supplying encircled units on the Eastern Front and during the rescue of Benito Mussolini. Aircraft of this type were also supplied to Germany's allies, including the Romanian and Italian air forces.

Original specifications (DFS 230):

• Length: 11.24 m
• Wingspan: 21.98 m
• Height: 2.74 m
• Empty weight: approx. 860 kg
• Loaded weight: approx. 2,040 kg
• Crew: 1 pilot
• Capacity: 9 equipped troops + approx. 270 kg of cargo
• Towing aircraft: Ju 52, He 111, Bf 110 and others
• First operational use: assault on Fort Eben-Emael (1940)

About the manufacturer – RS Models:

RS Models is a Czech manufacturer of plastic model kits, specialising in 1:72 and 1:48 aircraft, including rarer European subjects. The company produces its kits using short-run technology, often adding photo-etched parts and clear acetate details. RS Models is valued by modellers looking for subjects absent from the catalogues of the large manufacturers.