Curtiss SB2C-4 Helldiver

Plastic model kit for a Curtiss SB2C-4 Helldiver dive bomber

• Scale 1:72
• Includes clear parts and photo-etched components
• Authentic representation of the SB2C-4 Helldiver
• Detailed wing-folding mechanism
• Wings can be assembled in either the extended or folded position
• Finely crafted propeller
• Realistic engine with intricate details
• Detailed tailhook
• Cockpit canopy made of crystal-clear parts
• Detailed cockpit interior, including pilot's seat and instrument panel
• Seats can be depicted in either the stowed or deployed position
• Finely rendered details on the wings
• Realistically designed landing gear
• Authentic-looking machine guns
• Detailed struts within the landing gear bay
• Cockpit interior designed as a separate sub-assembly for installation
• Includes two 500-pound bombs
• Unbuilt, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver was a carrier-based dive bomber used by the US Navy (USN) during World War II. Although the two-seater SB2C faced significant criticism regarding its flight characteristics, range, and reliability, it achieved strong combat results following various improvements made during its production run. It saw action 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 substantial payload of ordnance; it also featured an internal bomb bay. In total, approximately 7,140 Helldivers were manufactured, with the SB2C-4 variant being the most numerous version. Introduced in mid-1944, the SB2C-4 was equipped with perforated dive brakes and underwing hardpoints for eight 5-inch rockets or 1,000-pound bombs. Curtiss produced more than 2,000 units of the SB2C-4 Helldiver, which proved to be more successful than its preceding variants.