North American P-51D Mustang Fighter Aircraft "463702 Grim Reaper 355th Fighter Squadron 9th US Army Air Force" (1945) United States Army Air Force
Brand new 1/48 scale diecast model of North American P-51D Mustang Fighter Aircraft "463702 Grim Reaper 355th Fighter Squadron 9th U.S. Army Air Force" (1945) United States Army Air Forces "Air Power Series" die cast model by Hobby Master. Brand new box. Detailed exterior. True-to-scale detail. Includes pilot figure. Has opening canopy. Includes display stand. Officially licensed product. Detachable ordnance loads. Manufacturers original unopened packaging. Dimensions approximately Length- 8 Wingspan- 9.25 inches. Diecast metal and plastic construction for durability and a heavy realistic feel. It is a highly detailed and accurate model perfect for collectors and enthusiasts of military history. Realistic panel lines antennas access panels and surface details for an authentic representation of the real-life airplane. HISTORY ASPECTS:The P-51D Mustang "Grim Reaper" serial number 44-63702 was a fighter aircraft assigned to the 355th Fighter Squadron of the 9th U.S. Army Air Force during the final months of World War II in 1945. The P-51D variant was the most advanced version of the Mustang featuring a bubble canopy for improved visibility six .50 caliber M2 Browning machine guns and a powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engine. These enhancements made the Mustang one of the most effective long-range escort fighters and ground-attack aircraft of the war.Serving primarily in the European Theater the "Grim Reaper" participated in missions supporting the Allied push into Nazi-occupied territory. With the 9th Air Force heavily involved in tactical air operations Mustangs like this one were deployed for bomber escort strafing enemy supply lines and attacking German airfields. As the Luftwaffes presence dwindled the P-51D took on a more aggressive role in destroying retreating enemy forces and inf