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

B-29A OLD BATTLER USAAF
1:72 Scale

• Highly detailed cockpit interior bomb bay
• Fully engraved panel lines & rivet details
• "Cartograf" premium quality decal included
• Optional position landing gear & bomb bay door

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.