Tag: Thunderbolt

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MiniArt to Release New Thunderbolt Mk I Model Kit

MiniArt will soon release a new Thunderbolt Mk I Royal Air Force Basic Kit in 1/48 scale.

The offering (48033) represents P-47 aircraft in RAF service during WW2 and includes highly detailed plastic parts and marking options for two aircraft: “Desperate Dan” of 258 Squadron and “36” of 73 Operational Training Unit. The Basic Kit format offers a straightforward and enjoyable build while preserving accurate external features.

As of this writing, it appears a final release date has not yet been announced. Click below to check out additional images.

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CAF SoCal Wing to Restore P-47N “Meat Chopper” to Airworthy Condition

The Southern California Wing of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF SoCal) has reported that they have been selected to restore P-47N Thunderbolt N47TB.

The Pratt & Whitney R-2800-59B-powered aircraft (S/N 45-53436) was originally built by Republic Aviation in Evansville, Indiana and served with the Guatemalan Air Force in the 1950s before becoming part of the CAF collection in 1962.

In 2002, the aircraft, wearing the colors of “Meat Chopper” of the 464th FS/507th FG, suffered an engine fire which resulted in an emergency landing. Thankfully, the pilot walked away, but the aircraft itself sustained significant damage, including a collapsed undercarriage and broken wing.

To date, “tremendous” repair work has been carried out on the machine, but much remains before it is able to return to the air. It is currently in Dallas but will soon be transferred to the SoCal Wing’s facility at Camarillo Airport. As of this writing, a time frame for completion has not been reported.

Those wishing to contribute toward the project can do so here.

(via CAF SoCal Thanks, Pascal!)