1/72 Martin Type 166 in Dutch Service

The prototype Martin B-10 (Martin Type 139) bomber first flew in February 1932 and revolutionized military aircraft design. All-metal construction, retractable landing gear, covered engines, enclosed gunports and internal bomb bay created a bomber that was fasterfaster than the fighters of the day and became the model for most other bomber aircraft until the jet age. The B-10 thus became the USAAC's first all-metal single-plane bomber and a symbol of the transition from biplanes to modern aerodynamic machines.

Export versions of the Martin 139 were delivered to a number of countries, but the main foreign user was the Dutch Colonial Air Force ML-KNIL. Based on operational experience, an upgraded variant of the Martin Type 166, designated WH-3 and WH-3A, was developed. These machines were given more powerful Wright Cyclone engines, a slightly swept wing, modified tail surfaces and a new long cockpit overlay for the pilot and rear gunner. The Dutch defense strategy in the area was largely based on these bombers.

After the outbreak of the Pacific War, Martin Type 166s were heavily deployed in the defence of the Dutch East Indies, Singapore, Borneo, Sumatra and Java. The aircraft carried out a number of attack missions against the Japanese invasion force, but faced heavy losses from Japanese fighters and airfield bombing. Some of the machines were destroyed in combat, some fell into Japanese captivity and a few were later handed over to Thailand where they served until the end of the war. The Martin Type 166 in Dutch service thus represents a key, now little-known bomber of the early period of World War II. The package does not include the paint or glue needed for assembly.