Academy 12517 1:72 B-29A USAAF 'Old Battler'

Boeing approached the Army Air Corp to propose an improved version of their capable B-17 Flying Fortress. At the time, the USAAC was still getting acquainted with the B-17 and didn't have a requirement for an aircraft with the capabilities outlined by Boeing. The year was 1938. By 1940 however, the storm clouds of war were gathering on the horizon and Boeing was contracted for three prototype aircraft (Consolidated also received a contract for three prototypes of their B-32 Dominator). Designed to fly above and faster than the threats of the day, the first B-29 flew in September, 1942. By the time the B-29 did get into full production, the decision had been made to focus the aircraft's capabilities in the Pacific where bomb load and range were critical. B-29s operated out of China as well as operating from island runways as the allied forces pushed their way toward Japan. Among the features and options in each kit: Nicely detailed flight deck and bombardier's station Nicely detailed rear compartment (though you can't really see this after assembly) Nice bomb bays with interconnecting crew pressure tunnel Movable dorsal and ventral turrets 32 bombs for optional bomb load Positionable landing flaps Positionable bomb bay doors Positionable landing gear