1/48 FOCKE-WULF FW 190D-9. MIMETALL PROD. JAGDGESCHWADER 301. BASIC KIT

The Focke-Wulf FW 190D-9, nicknamed "Dora" or "Langnasen-Dora" (long-nosed Dora) because of its extended nose, was an advanced version of the successful FW 190 fighter. It was developed in response to the need for improved performance at high altitudes, where the original radial-engined variants were losing their advantage against Allied machines. The D-9 version received a Junkers Jumo 213A inline engine with liquid cooling, which greatly improved performance at higher levels and allowed more effective combat against bomber alliances and their escort fighters. It entered service from the autumn of 1944 and became one of the best German fighters of the final phase of the war, prized by pilots for its superior handling, speed and armament.

The machines produced by Mimetall were delivered late in the war, when German industry was struggling with shortages of raw materials, manpower and constant air raids. This manifested itself in simplified finishes - instead of standard multi-coat finishes, faster methods, base paints without fine overpainting and sometimes incomplete camouflage were often used. These machines typically had an operational appearance with minimal polishing, visible wear and tear, and often impromptu repairs in the field.

Jagdgeschwader 301 (JG 301) was a Luftwaffe fighter squadron established in 1943, originally as a night fighter unit to defend the Reich against Allied bombers. Over time, it transitioned to daytime operations and by the end of the war was also flying FW 190D-9s. The unit operated in the challenging conditions of the last phase of the conflict - fuel shortages, limited training of new pilots and superior Allied air forces meant that even quality machines like the Dora were deployed in defensive roles with minimal chance of strategic success.

MiniArt's 1:48 scale kit features highly detailed exterior detailing with finely reproduced panel lines and rivets that match the actual aircraft design. The cockpit features an instrument panel and seat with enough detail for an open cockpit, and the builder can choose to leave the cowling open or closed as he prefers. Clear parts allow for realistic glass surfaces. Included are 2 decal variants covering Mimetall production machines deployed with JG 301, allowing the authentic look of late war machines to be captured including simplified finishes and operational wear. The package does not include the paints or adhesives required for assembly.