Curtiss SB2C-3 Helldiver

Plastic model kit of a Curtiss SB2C-3 Helldiver dive bomber

• 1:72 scale
• Includes clear parts and photo-etched components
• Detailed SB2C-3 Helldiver featuring photo-etched dive brakes
• Newly designed propeller
• Ailerons can be positioned as desired
• Fine detailing on the wings
• Wings can be assembled in either an extended or folded configuration
• Highly detailed wing-folding mechanism
• Cockpit interior designed as a separate sub-assembly
• Includes two 5,000-pound bombs
• Detailed landing gear bay
• Machine gun can be displayed either stowed or extended
• Realistic engine with fine details
• Detailed cockpit canopy made from crystal-clear parts
• Detailed cockpit interior, including pilot's seat and instrument panel
• Realistically rendered landing gear
• Detailed tailhook on the SB2C-3
• Unbuilt and unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The Helldiver was a carrier-based dive bomber used by the US Navy (USN) during World War II. Although the two-seater SB2C faced criticism regarding its flight characteristics, range, and reliability, it achieved strong combat results following improvements made throughout its production run. It saw service in numerous operations, including those at Rabaul, the Mariana Islands, the Philippines, Taiwan, Iwo Jima, the Ryukyu Islands, and Okinawa. Among its strengths was the ability to carry a significant payload of ordnance; it also featured an internal weapons bay. In total, approximately 7,140 Helldivers were manufactured. The SB2C-3, an early variant of the Helldiver, was equipped with a 1,900 hp R-2600-20 engine and a four-blade propeller to enhance its performance. Approximately 1,112 units of the SB2C-3 Helldiver were produced by Curtiss.