New from Osprey and author Martin Streetly is Heinkel He 219 Units, an illustrated study of the famous Heinkel He 219 – the Luftwaffe’s only purpose-built nightfighter – and its role in the bitterly contested nocturnal defense of the Reich.

Originally conceived as a high-performance reconnaissance aircraft, the Heinkel He 219 went on to become the Luftwaffe’s only purpose-built nightfighter. Despite its many sterling qualities (including ejector seats for its two crew members), the type’s production was bedevilled by political manoeuvring and consequently it was only used in strength by one unit – the Luftwaffe’s elite Nachtjagdgeschwader 1.

In this volume, respected historian Martin Streetly examines the development of the He 219, from its origins through to its implementation against the RAF’s ever-more destructive night offensive. First-hand accounts from Nachtjagdverband crew shed light on the He 219’s successes and failures in battle, while archive photos and newly commissioned artwork demonstrate the unique design and technology of this near-legendary aircraft.

The 96 page publication is now available in paperback and Kindle editions.

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MiniArt has released a new series of renderings for their upcoming new tool Fw 190D-9 (Mimetall) Advanced Kit in 1/48 scale.

The offering (48048) is described as highly detailed with accurate Mimetall production configuration, PE parts, detailed cockpit and surface features and decals with multiple marking options.

As previously reported, MiniArt announced this advanced kit around the same time as their basic kit (48040). As of this writing no release date has been announced for either kit. Click below to check out more of the new renderings of the advanced version.

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A 2002 Kitfox Model 5 has been spotted for sale. The listing states (in part):

This 2002 Kitfox Model 5 Experimental Airplane has been maintained by the owner and has a current annual. First flight 10/06/2002. Engine has 373 hours. All log books are current. Continental engine 4 cylinder125hp with dual fuel tanks 13.5 gallons x 2 for the long haul. Has a new Catto wood core carbon fiber propeller with a nickel leading edge. New tires. Foldable wings for compact storage or trailering. These planes are hard to find for sale especially in this nice condition.

The aircraft is located in Mansura, Louisiana and is currently available for bidding. Click here to check out the eBay listing, which includes a number of additional photos.

Coming later this year from Osprey Publishing and author Jeremy Walsh is Mosquito Units in the Far East, an illustrated history of the remarkable DH 98 Mosquito, from its unusual design and construction through to its pivotal actions the Far East.

The RAF and RAAF’s de Havilland DH 98 Mosquito played an important role in forcing the Japanese retreat from Burma and the Far East. Combining innovative composite-wood construction, world-class performance and beautifully balanced handling, the ‘Mossie’ excelled in intruder/strike and long-range photo-reconnaissance roles, despite its vulnerability to the hot, humid climate and challenging weather conditions. Moreover, Mosquito crews undertook their missions with great skill and determination, whether skimming the jungle to attack supply lines, supporting ground attack of artillery emplacements, denying airspace to the Japanese or identifying the enemy’s command centres.

In this new study, Mosquito specialist Jeremy Walsh reviews the aircraft’s background, its operational history across both RAF and RAAF squadrons in the Far East and its contribution to Allied success in this often ‘forgotten’ theatre. Accounts from aircrew bring first-hand perspectives to the story, while archive photographs and 21 newly commissioned aircraft profiles detail the aerodynamic efficiency and revolutionary nature of the Mosquito’s design.

The 96 page publication is currently available for pre-order in paperback and Kindle editions. Release is scheduled for September 22.

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IBG Models is preparing to release a new tool IBG Models 1/48 PZL M18 Dromader model kit in 1/48 scale.

The PZL M-18 Dromader is a Polish single-engine, low-wing utility aircraft designed in the late 1960s and early 1970s by PZL-Mielec, with its first flight taking place in 1976. Originally developed as an agricultural aircraft for crop spraying and fertilizing, it was engineered to be exceptionally robust, capable of operating from short and unprepared airstrips. Powered by a strong radial piston engine and equipped with a large central hopper, the Dromader can carry significant loads of liquid or chemicals, which made it one of the largest and most capable aircraft in its class.

Thanks to its strength, simplicity, and versatility, the Dromader was widely adapted for roles beyond agriculture, most notably aerial firefighting, but also forest protection, pest control, and utility transport. Hundreds of aircraft were produced and exported to dozens of countries across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Australia. The type earned a reputation for reliability in demanding conditions, including high temperatures and mountainous terrain, and remains in limited service today, particularly in firefighting roles, often upgraded with modern avionics and mission-specific equipment.

The offering will reportedly be released in two boxings representing Greek Firefighter (48004) and Polish Crop Duster (48002) versions. Additional details are scarce, but a series of Crop Duster renderings have been released, additional examples of which can be seen after the break (along with box art).

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A 1973 Cessna 150L has been spotted for sale. The listing states (in part):

This 1973 Cessna 150L is a beautifully designed and meticulously maintained lightweight two-seat aircraft, renowned for its reliability and efficiency. Known for its exceptional handling and low operating costs, it is well suited for flight training or personal use. The airframe total time is 5,896.8 hours, with the Continental O-200 engine also showing 5,896.8 hours total time and 2,130.5 hours since major overhaul. Featuring a useful load ideal for short- to medium-range flights, this aircraft benefits from sturdy all-metal construction for long-term durability. The cockpit offers clear, straightforward instrumentation with excellent visibility, enhancing pilot confidence and safety. Improved fuel capacity over earlier models extends range, and its reputation for ease of operation and maintenance makes this Cessna 150L an excellent opportunity for both beginner and experienced aviators seeking a proven, classic aircraft.

The aircraft is located in Tacoma, WA with offers currently being accepted. Click here to check out the eBay listing, which includes additional photos.

Set for release later this year from Osprey Publishing is F4F Wildcat vs A6M2-N “Rufe”: Solomon Islands 1942–43, author Michael John Claringbould’s illustrated study of engagements between the F4F Wildcat and 6M2-N ‘Rufe’ during the Solomon Islands campaign.

A number of unique confrontations took place between floatplanes and land-based fighters during the fierce aerial battles fought above the Solomon Islands throughout 1942–43. Whilst the most famous Battle of Guadalcanal ‘slugfests’ saw US Marine Corps/US Navy F4F Wildcats engage the Zero-sens of the Imperial Japanese Naval Air Force, the pugnacious Wildcats also came up against the A6M2-N ‘Rufe’ floatplane – termed the ‘Zero on floats’ by American pilots. Such encounters have gone under-explored and misrepresented in Western histories, with the elusive capabilities of the ‘Rufe’ and its role combatting raids against Guadalcanal receiving only scant attention.

In this revelatory study, Pacific War expert Michael John Claringbould uncovers an aspect of the Pacific air war that has, until now, remained largely unknown. Operational documents, combat reports and first-hand accounts from both Wildcat and ‘Rufe’ pilots are combined to help align adversaries, in some cases one-on-one, for the first time in print, while archive photographs, formation diagrams and newly commissioned artwork brings the action to life.

The 80 page publication is currently available for pre-order in paperback and Kindle editions with release set for August 25.

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Special Hobby is preparing to release a CAC Boomerang Mk.I/II model kit in 1/72 scale.

The type was designed and built in Australia by the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation from 1942 to 1945, marking the nation’s first domestically produced combat plane. Hastily developed after Japan’s entry into World War II using components from the CAC Wirraway trainer, the stubby, maneuverable Boomerang achieved a top speed of about 305 mph but underperformed in altitude and speed compared to contemporaries. Armed with two 20mm cannons and four .303 machine guns, it saw limited air-to-air success, instead excelling in ground attack, reconnaissance, and army cooperation roles in the Pacific theater, including New Guinea and Bougainville, where its rugged build absorbed heavy damage.

The upcoming release (SH72539) includes resin cast wheels and exhaust and two sprues consisting of plastic and clear parts. Marking options will be included for five machines, one machine from each RAAF squadron that flew the Boomerangs in combat. Four machines are camouflaged in green and brown scheme with light blue undersurfaces, the fifth machine is green all over.

As of this writing a final release date has not been announced. Click below to check out livery profiles.

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A 1960 Beech B95 Travel Air airframe project has been spotted for sale.

According to the listing, the offering is a complete airframe (6649 hours total time) which sustained minor damage during a gear-up landing. This classic Beechcraft twin—built from Bonanza and T-34 components and known for its reliable handling and economy—is finished in white with platinum and blue accents, featuring upgraded gray cloth interior. The aircraft sustained minor damage to the belly skins, nose gear doors, and left wingtip, with both wings, fuselage, and tail largely undamaged. Both engines and props were removed after prop strikes, and avionics are not included, though engine and flight instruments remain. It comes with full airframe and propeller logbooks, long-range fuel tanks (106 gallons usable), and complete documentation. Located in Greenville, South Carolina, this cheap, low-reserve sale includes 30 days of prepaid tie-down, making it a potential rebuild project, parts donor, or display piece.

The aircraft is currently available for US $1,995, although bids are also being accepted. Click here to check out the eBay listing, which includes a number of additional photos.

Soon to be released by Osprey Publishing is Junkers Ju 88C Day and Nightfighters, author Chris Goss’ illustrated account of the action-packed combat missions carried out by the Luftwaffe’s powerfully armed Junkers Ju 88C day and nightfighters.

The Junkers Ju 88A was the Luftwaffe’s most effective medium bomber during much of World War 2, and its high speed and surprising agility made it an ideal candidate for conversion into a Zerstörer (destroyer) fighter. Initially designed to be used as a long-range bomber escort, the solid-nosed Ju 88C fighter boasted powerful cannon that made the aircraft ideally suited to the nightfighter role. Its unrivalled endurance also meant the Ju 88C could undertake sweeps of the Bay of Biscay from the French Atlantic coast in search of Allied maritime patrol aircraft hunting U-boats.

Luftwaffe historian Chris Goss charts the action-packed service history of the Ju 88C through first-hand accounts and combat reports from the crews that flew the twin-engined Zerstörer into combat. Newly commissioned profile artworks and more than 50 photographs of aircraft and crews help detail the aircraft’s conversion from a fast bomber into a deadly heavy fighter that proved to be the scourge of Allied bomber and patrol aircraft.

The 96 page publication is currently available for pre-order in paperback and Kindle editions. Release is set for May 19.

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