P-47 Thunderbolt 1/72 Die Cast Model Militaria Diecast (27298-42)

P-47 Thunderbolt, Lt. Col. Francis S. "Gabby" Gabreski, 56th FG, 61st FS, USAAF 1/72 Die Cast Model - Militaria Diecast (27298-42)

Features

• Model is approximately 6" long with a 6.75" wingspan
• Metal and plastic construction
• Optional position landing gear
• Realistic surface detail, panel lines and access panels
• Presentation stand included

The P-47 Thunderbolt was a powerful American fighter aircraft used during World War II. Built by Republic Aviation, it was one of the largest and heaviest single-engine fighters of the war. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp engine, the P-47 could reach speeds over 430 mph and was heavily armed with eight .50-caliber machine guns. Known for its ruggedness, it excelled in both high-altitude air combat and low-level ground attack missions. Nicknamed the "Jug," the Thunderbolt played a crucial role in the European and Pacific theaters, earning a reputation for durability, firepower, and reliability in combat.

Francis S. "Gabby" Gabreski was one of America's top fighter aces during World War II, serving with the U.S. Army Air Forces in the 56th Fighter Group, 61st Fighter Squadron. Flying the rugged P-47 Thunderbolt, Gabreski achieved 28 confirmed aerial victories in the European Theater, making him the leading American ace in the European air war. Known for his aggressive tactics and exceptional flying skill, he became a symbol of American air superiority. Gabreski joined the 56th FG in 1943 and quickly established himself as a skilled leader and deadly pilot, particularly effective against German fighters like the Fw 190 and Bf 109. His combat career was cut short in July 1944 when he crash-landed in Germany and was taken as a prisoner of war. After World War II, he continued his military service in the U.S. Air Force and later flew in the Korean War. Gabreski remains a legendary figure in American aviation history.