Highly detailed 1/32 scale assembly model kit of the North American P-51 Mustang, a legendary American single-seat, single-engine fighter of the Second World War. The P-51 is arguably one of the greatest fighter aircraft in history, and it is in this writer's opinion the most beautiful combat aircraft of all time. Developed in 1940 by North American Aviation Company, the P-51 was originally fitted with the liquid-cooled Allison V-1710 engine, which had its limitations especially at high altitudes. In 1942, Rolls-Royce engineers test fitted the P-51 with the Merlin engine and transformed the Mustang into a truly great aerial fighting machine. Armed with six .50-Cal Browning machine guns and capable of carrying a variety of wing-mounted ordinances, the Mustang was capable of decimating both air and ground targets, and the Mustang s exceptional range made it an ideal bomber escort, which contributed heavily to the success of Allied air campaign in Europe. The bubble canopy fitted on the P51-D variant improved the Mustang s all-around visibility, which further enhanced its performance in combat. This beautifully detailed Hasegawa 1/32 scale assembly kit depicts the P51-D Mustang with the "teardrop" or "bubble" canopy, and the kit comes with 89 parts molded in grey and clear plastic, detailed cockpit, detailed engine with removable cowling, optional radiator flaps, optional bombs and drop tanks, and detailed wing machine gun bay complete with ammunition. Decals for P-51D USAAF SN: 414292/QP-A "Man O' War', 334th F.S., 4th F.G., 8th Air Force and two other versions ("Helen" & "Butch Baby") included.
