Tamiya 1/48 Focke Wulf FW190 F-8 WW2 Fighter Aircraft Kit (61039)

The superb performance of the radial engined Fw190A series of fighters also made them ideal for attacking ground targets. The Fw190F series was developed specifically for ground attack with additional armour protection for the pilot and BMW powerplant. The Tamiya Fw190F-8 builds up into a highly detailed 1/48th scale replica of this famous aircraft and includes an assortment of ordnance. High quality water activated decals are provided for four aircraft

Wingspan: 8-1/2" (21.9cm). Fuselage Length: 7-1/2" (19cm)

German successes during the beginning of World War 2 were brought about by "Blitzkriegs" and showed the effectiveness of combined ground and air-to-ground support tactics. The Ju87 Stuka dive bomber was active and successful during this period; however, by 1942 it was obsolete and unsuitable, especially in speed and maneuverability.

While the allied forces steadily moved forward, the air-to-ground attack for German forces took on more importance. A replacement for the Ju87 was required, and took on more importance. A replacement for the Ju87 was required, and the Focke-Wulf Fw190, which established itself as a mainstay fighter for the Luftwaffe, was found to be adaptable to this role due to its robust construction and versatility. The Fw190 went into service as a ground attack fighter in 1943, with the designation of Fw 190F. It was based on the Fw 190A airframe, but had additional armor protection around the cockpit and powerplant. The outboard 20mm guns were deleted and underwing weapons racks were installed.

As with the A-4 and later version Fw's the "F" series had the small radio mast on the tip of the fin, and to provide better visibility a blown canopy was introduced during this period. This canopy was in short supply so not all aircraft used it. The F-8 appeared in April 1944 and was the most widely produced Fw190 of the "F" series. European air superiority was already held by the allies, and the Fw190 F-8 was in action during this final stage of the conflict.