WOW154 ME262 ‘Nowotny’

Out of Stock

SKU: 12748 Category:
Description

Description

The Messerschmitt Me 262, nicknamed Schwalbe (German: “Swallow”) in fighter versions, or Sturmvogel (German: “Storm Bird”) in fighter-bomber versions, was the world’s first operational jet-powered fighter aircraft. Design work started before World War II began, but problems with the engines, metallurgy and top-level interference kept this aircraft from operational status with the Luftwaffe until mid-1944. The Me 262 was faster and more heavily armed than any Allied fighter, including the British jet-powered Gloster Meteor. One of the most advanced aviation designs in operational use during World War II, the Me 262’s roles included light bomber, reconnaissance and experimental night fighter versions. Me 262 pilots claimed a total of 542 Allied aircraft shot down, although higher claims are sometimes made. The Allies countered its effectiveness in the air by attacking the aircraft on the ground and during take-off and landing. Our aircraft is one flown by Major Walter Nowotny who is credited with 258 aerial kills during his service career, he was killed in December 1944 whilst flying the Me 262 pictured. This is a 1/30 scale limited edition of 10 pieces hand carved mahogany model.