Name: P-47D Thunderbolt Fighter 1:48 Model Kit by Hobby Boss
Brand: SCH Models
SKU: HBB85804
Price: 14.99 GBP
Availability: InStock

P-47D Thunderbolt Fighter 1:48 Model Kit by Hobby Boss

£14.99

Model Features

1:48 scale plastic model kit
Accurately represents the Republic P-47D Thunderbolt fighter aircraft
Highly detailed cockpit with realistic instrument panel and pilot's seat
Finely engraved panel lines and authentic surface detail
Detailed Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp radial engine
Accurate bubble canopy configuration
Detailed landing gear and wheel wells
Includes external fuel tanks, bombs, and rocket armament options
Clear canopy parts with excellent transparency
Precision-moulded plastic parts
Waterslide decal sheet included
Illustrated assembly instructions
Ideal for World War II aviation collections, USAAF displays, or European Theatre diorama projects

Specifications

Brand: Hobby Boss
Scale: 1:48
Subject: Republic P-47D Thunderbolt Fighter
Material: Injection-moulded plastic
Skill Level: Suitable for beginner to intermediate modellers
Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
Recommended Age: 14+
Parts: Over 140
Model Length: Approx. 230mm
Wingspan: Approx. 259mm

What's in the Box

Plastic sprues
Clear canopy parts
External fuel tanks
Bomb and rocket components
Waterslide decal sheet
Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Aircraft

The Republic P-47D Thunderbolt was one of the most powerful and heavily armed fighter aircraft of the Second World War. Developed by Republic Aviation, it was designed as a high-altitude escort fighter but quickly proved itself to be an outstanding fighter-bomber thanks to its rugged construction, exceptional firepower, and ability to withstand heavy battle damage.

The Thunderbolt first entered service with the United States Army Air Forces in 1942 and became one of the principal Allied fighters operating in the European Theatre. Powered by the formidable Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp 18-cylinder radial engine, producing over 2,000 horsepower, the P-47D could reach speeds of more than 430 mph (690 km/h) while maintaining excellent high-altitude performance.

The P-47D was the most widely produced variant of the Thunderbolt family. Later production aircraft introduced the distinctive bubble canopy, replacing the earlier razorback fuselage design and greatly improving pilot visibility. Combined with increased fuel capacity, these improvements made the aircraft even more effective on long-range escort and ground attack missions.

Armed with eight .50 calibre Browning M2 machine guns, the Thunderbolt possessed tremendous firepower. It could also carry a substantial external weapons load, including bombs and unguided rockets, allowing it to attack enemy armour, railways, bridges, and troop concentrations with devastating effect. Its strong airframe and air-cooled radial engine enabled many damaged aircraft to return safely to base after sustaining hits that would have destroyed lighter fighters.

As Allied air superiority increased during 1944 and 1945, the P-47 transitioned primarily into the fighter-bomber role, supporting advancing ground forces throughout Western Europe. It also served with numerous Allied air forces, including those of Britain, France, Brazil, and the Soviet Union.

By the end of the war, more than 15,600 Thunderbolts had been built, making it one of the most successful American fighter aircraft of the conflict. Renowned for its durability, firepower, and versatility, the P-47D remains one of the most respected and recognisable fighters of World War II.