Trumpeter 02428 1/24 Republic P-47D Thunderbolt Bubbletop

The P-47D Thunderbolt "Bubbletop" is one of the iconic World War II fighter's most recognizable and mass-produced variants. This version is distinguished by its electrically actuated, tear-drop-shaped bubble canopy, which replaced the previous P-47D's "razorback" fuselage spine. The bubbletop design was introduced on the P-47D-25 production block and later to drastically improve the pilot's all-around vision, a lesson learned from combat experience in Europe. To fit this canopy, the rear fuselage was cut down, resulting in a sleeker profile and a loss of directional stability, which was corrected by adding a dorsal fin on later models (D-30 and onwards). Retaining the massive 2,000+ hp Pratt & Whitney R-2800 radial engine and heavy armament of eight .50-caliber machine guns, the Bubbletop excelled as both a high-altitude escort fighter and a devastating low-level fighter-bomber. Its rugged construction allowed it to withstand considerable battle damage and remain a powerful force until the war's end.