1/48 USN SBD-3 Dauntless

The Douglas SBD Dauntless was the U.S. Navy's main deck dive bomber in the first half of World War II. It was distinguished by its rugged construction, excellent stability in dive flight, and effective braking shields that allowed accurate bombing from long angles. The SBD-3 variant was introduced into service in 1941 and brought greatly enhanced defenses with improved machine guns, larger and other technical modifications in response to early combat experience in the Pacific. These machines subsequently became a key element during the Battle of Midway, where it was the Dauntlesses that made a major contribution to the destruction of four Japanese carriers - an event that marked a turning point in the entire Pacific War.

Italeri's 1/48th scale kit captures the typical features of the SBD-3 version, including the detailed cockpit and gunner's cabin, the accurately rendered wing and fuselage construction, and the distinctive perforated braking shields. Also included are realistically rendered suspension armament and precise surface details that allow a faithful miniature of one of the most important naval aircraft of the early Pacific War to be constructed. The quality of the workmanship makes the model suitable for US naval aviation enthusiasts and builders of dioramas depicting key US Navy operations.

The package does not include the paint or glue needed for assembly.