set 2013 Luftwaffe Long-Range Bombers

Luftwaffe Long-Range Bombers

During World War II, the Luftwaffe, the German air force, fielded a variety of long-range strategic bombers that left a notable impact on aerial warfare.

The Junkers Ju 88, initially designed as a versatile fast medium bomber, later evolved to serve in various capacities, including long-range strategic bombing missions. Its twin-engine design provided a balance between speed and range, making it a formidable adversary against Allied aircraft. The Ju 88 faced challenges from Allied fighters such as the British Spitfire.

The Heinkel He 177 Greif, a four-engine heavy bomber, featured a distinctive engine layout with paired engines in each nacelle. Despite developmental issues, it was intended for long-range strategic bombing missions, though its deployment was limited. The He 177 encountered difficulties in combat against both Allied fighters and anti-aircraft defenses.

The Heinkel He 111 and Junkers Ju 188 also played significant roles in the Luftwaffe's long-range strategic bombing efforts. The He 111, a twin-engine medium bomber, was versatile and widely used, including in the early stages of the Blitz against Britain. The Ju 188, an upgraded version of the Ju 88, contributed to the Luftwaffe's efforts with its improved performance and capabilities.

The Dornier Do 217, another four-engine heavy bomber, participated in long-range bombing missions and anti-shipping operations. Its design incorporated features for strategic bombing, reconnaissance, and anti-ship warfare.

Notably, the four-engined Focke-Wulf Fw 200 Condor, initially designed as a long-range maritime patrol aircraft, was adapted for strategic bombing. Although its primary role was anti-shipping, it saw limited deployment in long-range bombing missions against land targets.

These diverse aircraft types were actively involved in major operations during World War II. The Blitz, the German aerial campaign against Britain in 1940-1941, showcased the versatility of aircraft like the Ju 88 and He 111. Additionally, they participated in the Battle of the Atlantic, attempting to disrupt Allied shipping lanes and naval operations.

As the conflict progressed, the Luftwaffe's strategic bombing capabilities faced challenges from the overwhelming superiority of Allied air forces and improved anti-aircraft defenses. Despite technological advancements, these aircraft struggled against the relentless pressure exerted by Allied fighters and the increasing efficiency of radar-guided defenses.

In conclusion, the Luftwaffe's array of long-range strategic bombers played vital roles in the early stages of World War II. However, as the conflict unfolded, they encountered formidable challenges from Allied aircraft and defenses, contributing to the diminishing effectiveness of German strategic bombing campaigns.

Use Guide for the Set Luftwaffe Long-Range Bombers

• Strategic bombers of the Luftwaffe were painted in a standard green camouflage scheme for bombers.
• The upper surfaces featured a camouflage pattern using dark green RLM 71 and black-green RLM 70. The lower surfaces of the aircraft were painted in the standard light blue color RLM 65. This did not apply to planes conducting most missions over the sea, as they had a special maritime camouflage.
• At times, for enhanced camouflage, additional mottling was applied over the standard green camouflage. This was done using yellowish-gray paint RLM 02 or blue tones RLM 65 or RLM 76. Some aircraft had mottling even on their lower surfaces. Notable examples of such camouflage were seen on He 177 aircraft of KG 40, based in Bordeaux-Merignac, France.

Set Luftwaffe Long-Range Bombers Includes:

• 269 RLM 76 Lichtblau (Light Blue) - A light blue color used for additional camouflage mottling.
• 275 RLM 70 Schwarzgrün (Black Green) - A dark green camouflage color of the upper surfaces.
• 274 RLM 71 Dunkelgrün (Drak Green)- A light green camouflage color of the upper surfaces.
• 260 RLM 65 Hellblau Ausg. 1941 (Light Blue ver. 1941) - A light blue standard color of the lower surfaces of Luftwaffe bomber aircraft.
• 298 RLM 02 RLM-Grau (RLM-Gray) - An interior yellowish-gray color that can be used for additional camouflage mottling.
• 078 Exhaust Manifold - Unpainted flame dampers and exhaust manifolds.

Collection:

• WW2 Luftwaffe

This Set is Best for:

• Dornier Do 217
• Focke-Wulf Fw 200 "Condor"
• Heinkel He 111
• Heinkel He 177 "Greif"
• Junkers Ju 88
• Junkers Ju 188 "Rächer", etc.

Paint Type:

• Acrylic A2013
• Enamel E2013

Paint Finish:

• Semi-gloss

Capacity:

• 6 x 10 ml. (6 x 0.33oz)