Trumpeter 02427 1/24 Republic P-47D Thunderbolt Razorback

The Republic P-47D Thunderbolt "Razorback" refers to the early production blocks of the D-variant and all previous models, distinguished by a solid metal fuselage spine running from the cockpit to the tail. This tall "razorback" design was characteristic of the P-47B, C, and early D models (up to the D-23/D-24 block), giving the aircraft a deep, slab-sided appearance necessary to house the elaborate ducting for the rear-mounted turbosupercharger. While the large fuselage area behind the pilot contributed to excellent directional stability, the high spine severely restricted the pilot's view to the rear and sides, a critical disadvantage in air combat. These early D-models saw significant combat service, particularly in the European theater, where they were highly valued for their extreme ruggedness, high speed in a dive, and devastating firepower from eight .50-caliber machine guns. The Razorback was continually upgraded during production, receiving water injection for emergency power boosts and underwing pylons for increased bomb and drop tank carriage.