1:72 P-51D Mustang bazooka rocket launcher

Tube rocket launchers for the Mustang in 1:72 scale

In the closing stages of the war fighters went after ground targets more and more often, and for that they needed more than machine guns. This set from the Czech company Eduard represents the launch tubes for unguided rockets that were nicknamed the bazooka for their resemblance to the infantry weapon. The package serves as an accessory for a plastic kit.

The armament and its use

The tube launchers were fitted under the wings of fighters in 1944 and let the aircraft destroy vehicles, locomotives and lighter fortifications. The tubes were reasonably effective, but they increased drag, so later practice replaced them with simply hanging the rockets on short rails. That is exactly why the version with tubes is tied to a fairly narrow period and looks fresh on a model.

How to go about it

Build the launchers off the model and watch that all the tubes point parallel. Mark out and dry-fit the attachment under the wing first, because the position is hard to adjust once the paint is on. Darken the inside of the tubes, or they will look flat. Attach the assembly to the model only after the paint and the decals are finished. Anyone who builds other types with open bomb bays will appreciate that there is no work inside the wing here; it all stays on the surface.

Suitable for

• builders of the Mustang in the ground attack role
• modelers after a less often seen configuration
• anyone interested in the development of airborne rocket armament
• builders of dioramas with aircraft in a field setting