(Preorder) Curtiss SB2C Helldiver

USN VB-83, White 208, USS Essex, Yamato Combat, April 1945

Hobby Master 1:72 HA2214

In early 1945 USS Essex and her aircraft became part of Operation Iceberg, the invasion of Okinawa. The battle lasted a total of 82 days from April 1, 1945 until June 22, 1945. VB-83 Helldivers and VT-83 Avengers were tasked with shipping strikes, anti-submarine patrols and ground support of troops. On April 5, 1945 VB-83 Helldivers and VT-83 Avengers were heavily involved in sinking one of the two largest battleships in the world, Yamato.

Curtiss SB2C Helldiver

Designed to replace the US Navy's Douglas SBD Dauntless, the SB2C Helldiver was first flown on December 18, 1940. The Helldiver was larger and faster than the Dauntless and was capable of operating from the most advanced aircraft carriers of its time. It carried an impressive armament but was underpowered and had a reputation for difficult handling characteristics, which earned it the nickname "Son-of-a-Bitch 2nd Class." Most of its problems were resolved with the SB2C-4 variant, which changed many pilots' minds about the Helldiver; in their eyes, its ability to sortie over long distances and carry a heavier bomb load redeemed many of its remaining faults.

Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" diecast airplanes feature:

• Molded metal construction with plastic components.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Inscriptions and posters printed with a stamp that do not fade or fall off like decals.
• opening of awnings, revealing detailed within the cockpit.
• Extended / retracted interchangeable landing gear.
• Display stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
• Authentic detachable artillery cargoes complete with placards.