Douglas B-26K Counter Invader

Congolese Air Force, no.64-17649, Brazzaville, Congo 1965

Includes 4x LAU rocket launchers

Hobby Master 1:72 HA3228

The Congo achieved independence in June 1960 and a Civil War took place between 1960 and 1965. Mutinies soon broke out by Congolese soldiers wanting better pay and advancement. Some provinces broke away and rebel armies formed. In 1964 in an attempt to back Colonel Joseph Mobutu the CIA sent 4 B-26s and in January 1965 two B-26Ks Counter Invaders were delivered. These aircraft were meant to destroy the rebel forces and end the unrest. One of the B-26Ks was 64-17649 built as an A-26C and upgraded by On-mark to a B-26K. The aircraft wore FR-649 in the Congo.

Douglas B-26K Counter Invader

Designed as a single-pilot light attack bomber, the A-26 first flew on July 10, 1942. Built by Douglas Aircraft Company, this twin-engined aircraft was met with little enthusiasm in the Pacific Theatre, prompting General George Kenney to proclaim "We do not want the A-26 under any circumstances as a replacement for anything." The early A-26 suffered from poor visibility, a problem that was corrected in 1944 when a clamshell canopy replaced the earlier "flat-topped" style. Later models were well-received in Europe, and the A-26 went on to become a greatly successful bomber, also serving in the Korean War and in several major Cold War conflicts.

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.