Messerschmitt Me 163 Komet 1/72 Scale Model

German Me 163B-1a - This is a model of a jet rocket fighter that attacked Allied bombers over Germany in late 1944 and early 1945. The Me 163 was actually a human-piloted rocket, and could only be used to defend the sky above its launch site. Its fuel system was prone to explosions, and its pilots had to wear full-body suits to protect themselves from leaks of the plane's caustic fuel. The Me 163 could only carried enough fuel to fly for about 8 minutes before its engine flamed out. It was so fast and maneuverable, however, that it could reach high elevation combat altitudes in 3 minutes or less. When its fuel was exhausted, it had to glide back to its landing strip and was vulnerable to enemy fighters during the descent. Less than 20 confirmed kills were attributed to Me 163s. Its production ended in February, 1945, and less than 400 were built.

More Photos: Left, Right, Top, Front, Front Angle Right, Front Angle Left, Rear Angle Right, Rear Angle Left, Above Left, Above Right

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