1/48 SBD3 Dauntless USN Dive Bomber

The Douglas SBD “Dauntless” was a single-engine, low-wing aircraft and the most widely used carrier-based dive bomber by the U.S. Navy during World War II. Entering active service with American flight units in 1941, it could be employed for both reconnaissance and dive bombing missions. The SBD-3 was the true hero of the Battle of Midway (June 1942), a turning point in the Pacific War, where it played a key role in the sinking of Japanese aircraft carriers. Powered by a Wright R-1820 Cyclone radial engine, it could reach a top speed of 410 km/h (255 mph). The SBD-3 was capable of carrying nearly 2,000 kg (4,400 lbs) of bombs. It was also equipped with two forward-firing 12.7 mm (.50 cal) machine guns and two rear-facing 7.62 mm (.30 cal) machine guns. It was highly appreciated by crews for its ruggedness and solid construction.