P-40B Tiger Shark 1:48 Model Kit by Revell

Model Features

• 1:48 scale plastic model kit
• Accurately represents the Curtiss P-40B Warhawk flown by the famous Flying Tigers
• Detailed cockpit with pilot figure
• Authentic Flying Tigers "shark mouth" nose markings
• Detailed fuselage with engraved and raised surface detail
• Rotating propeller and detailed landing gear
• Optional centreline drop tank
• Clear canopy that can be displayed open or closed
• Precision-moulded plastic parts
• Waterslide decal sheet with Flying Tigers markings
• Illustrated assembly instructions
• Ideal for World War II aviation collections, Flying Tigers displays, or Pacific Theatre diorama projects

Specifications

• Brand: Revell
• Scale: 1:48
• Subject: Curtiss P-40B Warhawk "Tiger Shark"
• Material: Injection-moulded plastic
• Skill Level: Level 2
• Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
• Recommended Age: 12+
• Parts: 61
• Model Length: Approx. 203mm (8in)
• Wingspan: Approx. 235mm (9.25in)

What's in the Box

• Plastic sprues
• Clear canopy parts
• Pilot figure
• Centreline drop tank
• Waterslide decal sheet with Flying Tigers markings
• Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Aircraft

The Curtiss P-40B Warhawk was one of the United States' principal fighter aircraft during the opening years of the Second World War. Developed from the earlier Curtiss P-36 Hawk, the P-40 combined rugged construction, good diving performance, and heavy armament, making it a dependable fighter in some of the war's most demanding theatres.

Entering service in 1941, the P-40B was powered by a Curtiss V-1710 Allison V12 engine, enabling it to reach speeds of around 352 mph (567 km/h). While it lacked the high-altitude performance of later Allied fighters such as the P-51 Mustang and Spitfire, it excelled at low and medium altitudes and earned a reputation for being able to withstand significant battle damage.

The aircraft became world-famous through its service with the American Volunteer Group (AVG), better known as the Flying Tigers. Operating in China before the United States formally entered the war, the Flying Tigers painted distinctive shark mouths on the noses of their P-40Bs, creating one of the most recognisable aircraft liveries in aviation history. Flying under the command of Claire Lee Chennault, the unit achieved an impressive combat record against Japanese forces, using the P-40's speed in a dive and ruggedness to overcome more manoeuvrable enemy fighters.

The P-40 served in nearly every major theatre of World War II, including North Africa, China, the Pacific, and the Soviet Union under the Lend-Lease programme. It was used in roles ranging from air superiority and bomber escort to ground attack and reconnaissance.

Although later replaced by more advanced fighters, the P-40 remained in frontline service throughout much of the war due to its reliability, ease of maintenance, and versatility. Today, it is remembered as one of the iconic Allied fighters of the early war years and is forever associated with the legendary Flying Tigers.

Historical Snapshot

• Country: United States
• Entered Service: 1941
• Role: Fighter / Fighter-Bomber
• Manufacturer: Curtiss-Wright Corporation
• Crew: 1
• Engine: One Allison V-1710-33 liquid-cooled V12 engine
• Primary Armament: Two .50 calibre Browning machine guns and four .30 calibre Browning machine guns
• Secondary Armament: Bombs (on later operational missions)
• Maximum Speed: Approximately 567 km/h (352 mph)
• Range: Approximately 1,090 km (680 miles)

Please Note

This is an unassembled plastic model kit. Paint, glue, and modelling tools are not included. Recommended for ages 12 and over.