Description
This 1:24 scale model kit includes 405 intricately detailed plastic components, designed for modellers aged 8 and up. With five genuine paint schemes, the Messerschmitt Bf109G-5/6 kit allows you to craft your perfect version of this iconic fighter aircraft.
Key Features
- Assemble with or without the comprehensive DB605 engine
- Engine cowlings and oil cooler can be displayed open or shut
- Includes two styles of engine cowlings (MTT and Erla)
- Canopy can be displayed open or closed (two styles provided)
- Extra engine and cockpit components for G-5 (pressurised cockpit)
- Optional 300l fuel tank and wing-mounted cannon "Gondolas"
- Ailerons, elevators, and rudder can be adjusted for realism
- Radiator and wing flap positions are adjustable
- Optional parts for specific configurations, including rudder pedals, gunsights, and trim wheels
- Detailed nose weaponry with machine guns, mounts, and ammunition boxes
- Slide moulding technique captures intricate details on cowlings, fuselage, exhausts, and gun barrels
History
The Bf109, crafted by Professor Willy Messerschmitt, took its maiden flight in May 1935. It triumphed in a design contest against Arado, Heinkel, and Focke-Wulf due to superior speed and agility, entering service as the Bf109 A-0 in 1937. Early models were deployed by the Condor Legion during the Spanish Civil War and by the Luftwaffe in the Invasion of Poland.
The Bf109 E emerged in late 1938, replacing the Junkers Jumo 210 engine with the more potent Daimler Benz DB601. Radiators were relocated from the nose to the strengthened wings to manage additional heat. The Bf109 E became emblematic of the Luftwaffe, engaging in dogfights with RAF Spitfires and Hurricanes.
In 1940, the Bf109 F was introduced, featuring the DB601E engine and enhanced aerodynamics, including reduced wing area with rounded tips and a redesigned tailplane without support struts. Fuel capacity was increased to extend the range to 1,060 m (1700 km). The Bf109 F entered service in October 1940.
The DB605 engine was developed for easier production than the DB601E, with increased displacement and compression boosting power to 1455bhp. With this engine, the Bf109 became the Bf109 G "Gustav." The pressurised Bf109 G-1 started production in February 1942, followed by the non-pressurised G-2 in May.
In February 1943, the nose-mounted 7.92mm MG 17 guns were upgraded to 13mm MG 131, resulting in the distinctive bulged engine cowlings of the G-5 and G-6 models. These were the most produced Bf109 variants, with over 12,000 manufactured. The high-altitude G-5 featured a pressurised cockpit with an engine-driven compressor and sealed canopy.
The Bf109 G could be equipped with two additional MG151/20 cannons in under-wing gondolas, along with a 300l fuel tank, rockets, and bomb racks. Tropical equipment enabled operation in North Africa's dusty environment.
The G-6 initially equipped JG 27, 51, 53, and 77 in the Mediterranean and later many Luftwaffe units in Western Europe and the Eastern Front, where ace Erich Hartmann claimed 352 aerial victories.
