1/72 Junkers Ju 390V-1

The Junkers Ju 390 was one of the most ambitious German aircraft projects of the Second World War. It was developed directly from the four-engined Ju 290 transport and reconnaissance aircraft — the designers lengthened it, redesigned it and fitted it with six engines, creating an aircraft capable of carrying heavy loads over exceptionally long distances. The V-1 prototype took to the air for the first time on 20 October 1943 and, through its performance, demonstrated that the project was technically viable. The Ju 390 was part of a group of aircraft designed for the ‘Amerikabomber’ competition, the aim of which was to develop an aircraft capable of reaching the United States and returning without a stopover. Although further prototypes and production aircraft were commissioned, none of the subsequent prototypes were completed and production was cancelled — the Ju 390 thus remained one of many German ‘paper’ weapons whose realisation was thwarted by the course of the war.

The Planet Models 1:72 scale resin kit is back in stock after a long absence and is intended exclusively for very experienced modellers. Working with a resin kit is considerably more demanding than working with a standard plastic model — before assembly, the castings must be carefully stripped of sprues and flash, and any minor deformations caused during production must be corrected. The result, however, is a model with an exceptional level of detail, which resin technology allows to be captured more effectively than standard injection moulding. Moreover, with its length and wingspan, the six-engine Ju 390 is an imposing model even at 1:72 scale, and once completed, it will be a striking addition to any display case.

When painting, the standard Luftwaffe scheme for large transport and reconnaissance aircraft is typically used — upper surfaces in a combination of green shades (RLM 70/71) with a blue underside (RLM 65), or, in later variants, with grey tones (RLM 76). Weathering, engine exhaust streaks and surface wear will significantly enhance the overall appearance and emphasise the model’s authenticity. The kit is available in limited quantities. The pack does not contain the paints or adhesives required for assembly.