Level 2 Model Kit Messerschmitt Me410A-1 Fighter Aircraft with 2 Scheme Options 1/72 Plastic Model Kit by Airfix

Brand new plastic model kit of Messerschmitt Me410A-1 Fighter Aircraft with 2 Scheme Options (Level 2) 1/72 plastic model kit by Airfix. Brand new box. Vintage style packaging. Officially licensed product. Contains 149 detailed parts. Does NOT include display stand. Paint and cement required (not included). Manufacturer's original unopened packaging. Parts molded in Light Gray, unless otherwise indicated. Includes decals to design the plane in 2 different schemes. Dimensions approximately L-6.8, W-8.89 inches assembled. HISTORY ASPECTS: The Messerschmitt Me 410A-1, Werknummer 10185, coded U5+KG, served with 16. Staffel of Kampfgeschwader 2 "Holzhammer" from its base at Amsterdam-Schiphol in October 1943. Developed as an improved successor to the troubled Me 210, the Me 410 featured more powerful Daimler-Benz DB 603A engines, refined aerodynamics, and improved handling. In its A-1 configuration, the aircraft was primarily used as a fast bomber, capable of carrying a variety of ordnance while retaining the ability to defend itself with heavy forward-firing armament, including 20 mm and 13 mm machine cannons. In late 1943, 16./KG 2 was tasked with conducting fast, high-altitude bombing and intruder missions over England and the North Sea, targeting industrial centers, ports, and Allied shipping. The Me 410’s speed and firepower allowed it to evade or engage Allied fighters, but the growing presence of long-range escort aircraft, such as the P-47 Thunderbolt and P-51 Mustang, meant that these missions became increasingly dangerous. Despite this, crews flying the Me 410 from Schiphol managed to inflict damage on key supply routes and maintained a strong operational tempo through the autumn months. The Me 410 also served in a reconnaissance and heavy fighter role, engaging in intercept operations against Allied bombers. By late 1943, some aircraft were fitted with additional weaponry, such as the 50 mm BK 5 cannon, to attack American B-17 and B-24 formations. Although powerful, the Me 410 was ultimately not fast or maneuverable enough to fully counter the Allies’ growing air superiority, and its losses increased into 1944. Nonetheless, examples like WNr. 10185 represent the Luftwaffe’s determined efforts to adapt and innovate under increasingly difficult wartime conditions. This 1:72 scale model captures the sleek yet imposing lines of this versatile aircraft, complete with accurate KG 2 markings and wartime camouflage. Perfect for World War II aviation enthusiasts and collectors, it offers a historically rich addition to any display, honoring a Luftwaffe design that strove to balance speed, firepower, and adaptability in one formidable package.