A-26B-15 Invader 1:48 Model Kit by ICM

Model Features

• 1:48 scale plastic model kit
• Accurately represents the Douglas A-26B-15 Invader twin-engine attack bomber
• Highly detailed cockpit and crew compartment
• Finely engraved panel lines and authentic surface detail
• Detailed bomb bay with bomb load included
• Detailed Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp radial engines
• Rotating propellers and detailed engine nacelles
• Clear canopy and turret parts with excellent transparency
• Detailed landing gear and wheel wells
• Precision-moulded plastic parts
• Waterslide decal sheet featuring three World War II marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions
• Ideal for World War II aviation collections, USAAF displays, or European Theatre diorama projects

Specifications

• Brand: ICM
• Scale: 1:48
• Subject: Douglas A-26B-15 Invader
• Material: Injection-moulded plastic
• Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate to advanced modellers
• Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
• Recommended Age: 14+
• Parts: 243
• Model Length: 323mm
• Wingspan: 447mm

What's in the Box

• Plastic sprues
• Clear canopy and turret parts
• Bomb bay and bomb components
• Landing gear components
• Waterslide decal sheet with three marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Aircraft

The Douglas A-26 Invader was one of the most capable twin-engine attack aircraft of the Second World War and remained in military service for decades after the conflict ended. Developed by the Douglas Aircraft Company, it was designed as a fast attack bomber capable of carrying a heavy bomb load while retaining the speed and agility of a fighter aircraft.

The prototype first flew in 1942, and after an extensive development programme the A-26 entered operational service in 1944. Built to replace the Douglas A-20 Havoc, the Invader featured a sleek fuselage, tricycle landing gear, and two powerful Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp radial engines. These gave the aircraft a top speed of over 570 km/h (355 mph), making it one of the fastest bombers of its class.

The A-26B-15 featured a solid nose equipped with between six and eight .50 calibre Browning machine guns, depending on the production block. Combined with remotely operated dorsal and ventral gun turrets and the ability to carry up to 4,000 lb (1,800 kg) of bombs internally, plus additional ordnance under the wings, the Invader possessed exceptional offensive firepower. It proved equally effective against enemy aircraft, vehicles, railways, bridges, and troop concentrations.

The aircraft first saw combat with the Ninth Air Force in Western Europe during late 1944, supporting Allied ground forces following the Normandy landings. It also served in Italy and the Pacific, where its speed, accuracy, and ruggedness made it highly effective in tactical strike missions. The Invader continued flying combat operations until the final days of the Second World War.

Unlike many wartime aircraft, the Invader enjoyed a remarkably long operational career. Following the establishment of the United States Air Force in 1947, the aircraft was redesignated B-26 Invader and later saw extensive combat during the Korean War and Vietnam War, where upgraded variants remained highly successful in night interdiction and close air support missions.

The A-26 Invader earned a reputation as one of America's finest attack aircraft. Its combination of speed, heavy armament, long range, and outstanding reliability ensured a service life spanning more than three decades and secured its place as one of the most successful combat aircraft ever built.

Historical Snapshot

• Country: United States
• First Flight: 1942
• Entered Service: 1944
• Role: Attack Bomber / Light Bomber
• Manufacturer: Douglas Aircraft Company
• Crew: 3
• Engines: Two Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp 18-cylinder radial engines
• Primary Armament: Six to eight .50 calibre Browning M2 machine guns (solid nose)
• Secondary Armament: Up to 4,000 lb (1,800 kg) of bombs internally, plus rockets and external bombs
• Maximum Speed: Approximately 571 km/h (355 mph)
• Range: Approximately 2,300 km (1,430 miles)

Please Note

This is an unassembled plastic model kit. Paint, glue, and modelling tools are not included. Recommended for ages 14 and over.