Category: WW2 Era (1939-45)

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Airfix to Release New Tool 1/24 Messerschmitt Bf109G-5/6

Airfix is slated to release a new tool Messerschmitt Bf109G-5/6 in an impressive 1/24 scale. The upcoming release (A17003) consists of 405 parts and reportedly includes five marking options and extensive build options:

Model can be built with or without the fully detailed DB605 engine.
Engine cowlings and oil cooler can be posed in open or closed position
Choice of two types of engine cowlings (MTT and Erla)
Canopy can be posed open or closed (two canopy types included)
Additional engine and cockpit parts included for G-5 (pressurised cockpit version)
Optional 300l fuel tank and wing cannon “Gondolas”
Ailerons, elevators and rudder can be offset to add life to the model.
Radiator and wing flap position can be customised
Many optional parts to suit specific aircraft builds, such as rudder pedals, gunsights, trim wheels, instrument panels, undercarriage wheels/tyres and windscreens
Detailed nose armament with machine guns, gun mounts and ammunition boxes included
Slide moulding used to allow the capture of fine detail on engine cowlings, fuselage, exhausts and gun barrels

As of this writing, the new kit is set for release in the winter of 2025-26. Click below to check out additional images.

Continue reading Airfix to Release New Tool 1/24 Messerschmitt Bf109G-5/6

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Border Model to Release Stunning He 111 in 1/35 Scale

Border Model is preparing to release what appears to be a truly spectacular new tool He 111H-6 model kit in 1/35 scale.

The upcoming release (BF-018) will reportedly include PE and transparent parts, full cockpit / engine interior, optional torpedoes / bombs and four marking options. The entire fuselage is designed with stressed skin and added rivets to replicate surface detail.

The company states that they plan to complete final testing in November and begin shipments in December. Click below to check out additional renderings, sprue photos and box art.

Continue reading Border Model to Release Stunning He 111 in 1/35 Scale

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New Book Chronicles F4U Corsair’s Rise as Legendary Fighter

Casemate is about to release author Tim Hillier-Graves’s new book The Vought F4U Corsair in The War Against Japan: A Photographic Record of the 15th Naval Fighter Wing at War 1944-5 .

By mid-1944, the Allies, especially the United States, began preparing for a potential invasion of Japan. Churchill expected the Royal Navy to support the U.S. Navy in achieving aerial dominance. The Admiralty focused on strengthening its carrier forces, forming the 15th Naval Fighter Wing. However, a key question arose: which aircraft would the Wing use?

The Supermarine Seafire lacked the necessary range and endurance for Pacific operations, while Hellcats were in short supply and prioritized for U.S. use. This left the Vought F4U Corsair as the best option. Although initially dismissed due to its poor safety record on carriers, the Corsairs were eagerly acquired by the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm, so relieving the US Navy of this controversial aircraft until its problems could be sorted out.

The 15th Naval Fighter Wing, initially comprising Nos. 1830, 1831, and 1833 squadrons, became the first carrier based unit to successfully deploy the Corsair at sea. Despite early losses, British and Commonwealth pilots demonstrated its effectiveness, eventually convincing even the skeptical U.S. Navy of its capabilities. The Corsair proved to be one of the war’s most effective fighters.

Led by Battle of Britain ace Dickie Cork until his death in 1944, the Wing achieved notable successes against Japanese forces aboard HMS Illustrious.

This 152 page book draws on accounts from 20 veterans and extensive archives to highlight the Corsair’s transformation into a legendary naval fighter and the pilots’ indomitable spirit. It is currently available for pre-order with release set for November 25.

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ICM to Release HP.52 Hampden B.Mk.I: “100% New Molds”

ICM Models has released a series of renderings for their new tool HP.52 Hampden B.Mk.I which is currently in development.

The 1/48 scale offering (48352) reportedly includes detailed rivets on surfaces, accurate geometry with detailed cockpit, various types of bombs and marking options for four aircraft, including the first production example. Hit the break below to check out additional renderings.

Continue reading ICM to Release HP.52 Hampden B.Mk.I: “100% New Molds”

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Airfix Releases New Tool Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IXe

Airfix has released a new tool Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IXe model kit in 1/48 scale.

The new release (A05144) features 124 parts, paint layout sheet and three marking options representing machines from No.43 Squadron (A Flight), No.5 Eskadrille, Royal Danish Air Force (pictured above) and Brustem Advanced Pilot School, Brustem.

The offering boasts a detailed cockpit and options for the clipped wing variant.

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Restoring Cole Palen’s 26.5″ Mitsubishi A5M “Claude” [Video]

The latest addition to our YouTube channel (DX Modelworks) is a two part series detailing the restoration of a 26.5″, rubber powered Mitsubishi A5M “Claude.”

The model was originally built in February 1989 by Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome (oldrhinebeck.org) founder Cole Palen, who was an avid, prolific and brilliant free flight modeler. The plans were sourced from the October 1945 issue of “Model Airplane News” and enlarged significantly.

The series concisely documents the restoration of the model and provides a rare glimpse at Cole’s building techniques. Click below to check it out. If you’re pleased with what you see, please consider subscribing to the channel. Likes and shares are also greatly appreciated!

Continue reading Restoring Cole Palen’s 26.5″ Mitsubishi A5M “Claude” [Video]

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1941 Piper J5A For Sale: “Ground Up Restoration 2022”

Please Note: This is an archived post. The information presented here may not be current and the associated listing may no longer be active.

A 1941 Piper Cub J5A has been spotted for sale. The listing states (in part):

TTAF-3159h. Engine C-85-12F TSMOH- 669h. Aircraft log since 1944. Ground up restoration 2022. Polyfiber fabric and paint. Becker radio. Electric starter. Hangared. 4 gal per hour! Annual : July 2025

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

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Spotted: 1940 Piper J-3 Cub Project For Sale

Please Note: This is an archived post. The information presented here may not be current and the associated listing may no longer be active.

A 1940 Piper J-3 Cub project has been spotted for sale. The listing states (in part):

This 1940 Piper J3 Cub is being offered for sale due to a possible hairline crack in the engine case. It has 3,709 total time, 620 hours since major overhaul, and 55 hours since top overhaul. The aircraft was recovered in 2001 using the Stits Poly-Fiber system and is equipped with metal spars and ribs for added durability. A true aviation classic, this J3 Cub provides a rare opportunity for a collector or restorer looking to own a piece of history.

The aircraft is located in Frisco, TX and offers are currently being accepted. Click here to check out the eBay listing, which includes a number of additional photos.

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1943 Grumman G-44 Widgeon For Sale: “Beautifully Restored, Ready For Adventure”

Please Note: This is an archived post. The information presented here may not be current and the associated listing may no longer be active.

A 1943 Grumman G-44 Widgeon has been spotted for sale. The listing states (in part):

The 1943 Grumman G-44 Widgeon is a truly exceptional aircraft—really nice, very fun to fly, and packed with character and capability. This particular Widgeon underwent a complete rebuild just 500 hours ago and has been meticulously upgraded with modern features while retaining its classic charm. It’s powered by robust GO480 Lycoming engines with no A/D props, and equipped with dual alternators, Redline brakes, an electric hydraulic pump, and Oregon Aero seats for top-notch comfort. The avionics have been modernized with Garmin radios, making this flying boat as practical as it is nostalgic. A real head-turner on any ramp or dock, this Widgeon proudly served during WWII and began its journey at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis. A rare piece of aviation history, beautifully restored and ready for adventure.

The aircraft is located in Battle Ground, WA and offers are currently being accepted. Click here to check out the eBay listing, which includes a number of additional photos.

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1943 SNJ-4 For Sale: “Beautifully Maintained, Exceptional Example”

Please Note: This is an archived post. The information presented here may not be current and the associated listing may no longer be active.

A 1943 North American SNJ-4 has been spotted for sale. The listing states (in part):

Offered for sale is a beautifully maintained 1943 North American SNJ-4, serial number 88-13627, Navy Bureau No. 51360, currently registered as N6424D (formerly N694US). Transferred to civil registry on September 12, 1958, at NAS Pensacola, this aircraft remains in stock SNJ-4 configuration with a rear “gunner” style seat and segmented SNJ-4 canopy with a glass front windscreen. With a total time of 9,304 hours on the airframe and 6,464 hours on the engine, the engine has 930 hours since major overhaul and 260 hours since top overhaul. Empty weight is 3,920 lbs, with a max gross weight of 5,300 lbs, offering a useful load of 1,383 lbs. Notable upgrades under STC include a Brackett air filter, auto fuel STC, Redline brakes, Jasco 12V alternator system, steerable P-51 style tailwheel, high-roll Harvard ailerons, and the AMOC wing angle program. The rear cockpit is also equipped with engine start functionality. Avionics include a Lynx NGT-9000 ADS-B In/Out transponder with WAAS GPS and integrated traffic display, Garmin Comm 1, King KX155 Comm 2, an Aspen EFD 1000 PFD, and a Midcontinent Life Saver backup attitude indicator in the rear cockpit. This is an exceptional example of a warbird with solid history, tasteful modern upgrades, and authentic vintage presentation. Ready for the discerning collector or serious aviator.

The aircraft is located in Los Angeles, CA and offers are currently being accepted. Click here to check out the eBay listing, which includes a number of additional photos.

Please Note: This post contains an eBay affiliate link. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.