Of all the fighter planes that flew during World War II, the P-39 Airacobra was unique in having its engine placed behind the pilot, allowing for greater maneuverability. The P-39 was the first single-engine fighter plane to have a tricycle undercarriage and had a more powerful armament package than any other single-engine fighter in the early part of the war. Nearly 9,588 were built, and were flown by U.S. Army Air Force squadrons in the Pacific, Alaska, Europe, Africa, and South America. But it was the Soviet Union that put the Airacobra to use in the greatest numbers, using over 5,000 to attack German units on the eastern front throughout the war.

Academy is releasing this largely-used P-39 N/Q. The 1/72 "Russian Ace" comes armed with four .50 calibre machine guns in the wings, one 37mm nose cannon, and a 500-lb bomb. The kit has fully engraved panel lines, highly detailed cockpit interior and landing gear, and offers three late WWII decal schemes. This kit is priced right and will make a nice addition to your late WWII collection.