1:72 Luftwaffe night fighters (Fw 189A-1, Do 17Z-10, Bf 109E-4)

Luftwaffe Night Fighters – a set of three kits 1:72 (ICM)

The gift package contains three separate injection-molded plastic kits in night fighter configurations: the Messerschmitt Bf 109E-4, the Dornier Do 17Z-10 Kauz II and the Focke-Wulf Fw 189A-1. 1:72 scale, made by ICM. This is therefore not one model, but a complete trio of aircraft on the theme of the Luftwaffe night fighter defense; each kit has its own decal sheets.

The real subject

When the night raids of the RAF exposed the limits of anti-aircraft artillery, the Luftwaffe began adapting existing frontline aircraft for night fighting. The Bf 109E-4 put a single-seat day fighter into early night interceptions in a dark camouflage scheme. The twin-engined Dornier Do 17Z-10 Kauz II served as a long-range night intruder with a glazed nose. The Focke-Wulf Fw 189, otherwise known as the twin-boom reconnaissance Uhu, was adapted in its night configuration to find and attack bombers in the dark. These were improvised solutions of the early period, before the specialized night fighters arrived.

Building and painting tips

Glue the parts with thin cement for plastic and sand the joints once dry. Lay down a primer before painting; dark night schemes and subtle shades of gray come out best with an airbrush. On glazed cockpits and noses it pays to use masking and to paint the frames separately. Building the three aircraft at once lets you match the weathering and create a striking themed display.

Who the set is for

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.

• modelers interested in the Luftwaffe and in early night fighting
• collectors of aircraft in 1:72 scale
• those who will appreciate three models in one package
• builders of themed displays and dioramas