The
P-47M was intended to be an improvement on the bubble topped P-47D. The
powerplant was modified in an attempt to improve performance, but a series of
problems with the ignition systems, piston rings and the pistons themselves
caused considerable problems for the aircraft initially. The problems were
eventually ironed out but the delay kept the P-47M from playing much of a role
in Europe. Virtually all of the P-47Ms were given to the 56th Fighter Group of
the Eighth Air Force. My aircraft depicts Witold Lanowski's aircraft, (4
Kills), flying with the 61st Fighter Squadron, 56th Fighter Group in April
1945.
Revell's kit really captures the look of
this great aircraft nicely with my only real criticism being that the landing
gear looks to be a couple of scale inches to short. The cockpit is fairly
detailed but a resin replacement might be in order here. I pretty much built
mine out of the box except for replacing the gun barrels so a clean look could
be achieved on the leading edge of the wing.
The model was painted using Alclad ll and Modelmaster
enamels. The top surface of these aircraft was dark blue, not black as is
often quoted in various books...this comes directly from one of the 56th's
pilots! I used Ministry Of Small Arms decals and was very pleased with
them. I really enjoyed this kit and bought two more for future projects!
Joe
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