Name: Messerschmitt Bf 109E-3 1:32 Model Kit by Trumpeter
Brand: SCH Models
SKU: TRU02288
Price: 34.99 GBP
Availability: InStock

Messerschmitt Bf 109E-3 1:32 Model Kit by Trumpeter

£34.99

Model Features

1:32 scale plastic model kit
Accurately represents the Messerschmitt Bf 109E-3 "Emil", one of the Luftwaffe's principal fighters during the early years of the Second World War
Highly detailed cockpit with authentic instrument panel, seat, and sidewall detail
Finely engraved panel lines and realistic rivet detail
Detailed Daimler-Benz DB 601A inverted V-12 engine with optional open cowling panels
Accurate engine compartment with structural framework
Detailed landing gear and wheel wells
Positionable flaps and separate control surfaces
Optional open or closed canopy configuration
Includes authentic early-war armament and optional drop tank
Photo-etched detail parts included
Precision-moulded plastic parts
Waterslide decal sheet featuring Luftwaffe and Swiss Air Force marking options
Illustrated assembly instructions
Ideal for World War II aviation collections, Battle of Britain displays, or Luftwaffe diorama projects.

Specifications

Brand: Trumpeter
Scale: 1:32
Subject: Messerschmitt Bf 109E-3
Material: Injection-moulded plastic
Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate to advanced modellers
Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
Recommended Age: 14+
Parts: 274
Photo-Etched Parts: 1 piece
Model Length: 273mm
Wingspan: 308mm

What's in the Box

Plastic sprues
Clear canopy parts
Photo-etched detail parts
Detailed Daimler-Benz DB 601A engine
Three rubber tyres
Waterslide decal sheet featuring:
- Bf 109E-3, Josef Priller, 6./JG51, Autumn 1940
- Bf 109E-3, Helmut Wick, JG2, France 1940
- Swiss Air Force J-371
Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Aircraft

The Messerschmitt Bf 109E-3, better known by its nickname "Emil", was one of the most important fighter aircraft of the early Second World War. Developed by Messerschmitt AG, the E-series represented a significant improvement over the earlier Bf 109 variants, introducing a more powerful engine, heavier armament, and improved survivability. These refinements transformed the aircraft into one of the most formidable fighters of its era.

The Bf 109 first flew in 1935, but the E-series entered service in 1938 with the newly developed Daimler-Benz DB 601A inverted V-12 engine. Producing approximately 1,100 horsepower, the engine gave the Emil a top speed of over 560 km/h (348 mph), making it one of the fastest operational fighters in the world at the time.

The E-3 variant introduced a substantial increase in firepower compared with earlier models. It retained two 7.92mm MG 17 machine guns mounted above the engine while replacing the wing-mounted machine guns with 20mm MG FF cannons, giving the aircraft far greater destructive capability against both fighters and bombers. A total of 1,276 Bf 109E-3s were produced, including export aircraft supplied to friendly nations.

The Emil became the Luftwaffe's principal single-seat fighter during the campaigns in Poland, Norway, France, and most famously during the Battle of Britain in 1940. It flew escort missions for German bombers, engaged Royal Air Force Spitfires and Hurricanes, and established the Bf 109 as one of the defining fighters of the conflict. Although its relatively short range limited its effectiveness during operations over southern England, its excellent climb rate, acceleration, and high-speed performance made it a dangerous opponent.

Many of Germany's leading fighter aces flew the Bf 109E-3, including Helmut Wick, Adolf Galland, and Josef Priller, whose markings are included with this Trumpeter kit. The aircraft also served with several foreign operators, including the Swiss Air Force, where it remained in service for many years after the war began.

The experience gained from the E-series directly influenced later variants such as the Bf 109F Friedrich, Bf 109G Gustav, and Bf 109K Kurfürst, ensuring the Bf 109 remained in frontline service throughout the entire war. Today, the Emil is remembered as one of the most iconic fighters of the Battle of Britain and a landmark aircraft in aviation history.