Arado 234 B

Includes one Arado 234 B aircraft, one Flight stand, one Aircraft dice, two Rare-earth magnets & one Decal sheet.

While the Me 262 had the distinction of being the world’s first operational jet fighter, the Arado 234 B was the first bomber to utilise this revolutionary method of propulsion. Together, these two aircraft represented the finest aircraft available to the Luftwaffe during the closing stages of the Second World War.

As early as late 1940, the Reich Air Ministry (or RLM) saw the need for a jet-powered reconnaissance aircraft. Only one company (Arado) show interest; led by Professor Walter Blume, the development team set about designing an aircraft to utilise the Junkers Jumo 004 engine.

However, delays in the delivery of the Junkers Jumo 004 engine meant that the prototypes weren’t ready till early 1943. In flight testing the aircraft demonstrated excellent flight characteristics and by July 1944 the first Ar. 234s saw service as reconnaissance aircraft, demonstrating an ability to evade any Allied fighters they encountered with relative ease. Due to the slender design of the fuselage, no internal bomb bay could be fitted. Instead, bomb racks were installed below each of the engine nacelles and could carry 2,000kg of ordinance.

The best known action involving the Aroda 234 B was at Remagen in March 1945. After American forces captured the Ludendorff Bridge intact, aircraft were sent to attack the bridge in an attempt prevent the Allies from establishing a bridgehead. The bridge finally collapsed on 17 March 1945 due to damage sustained by failed demolition attempts and battle damage.

Designed by Evan Allen
Painted by Chris Townley