Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series AA31103
Boeing B-17E Flying Fortress Diecast Model
USAAF 97th BG, 414th BS, "Yankee Doodle", RAF Grafton Underwood, England, September 1942

This item is new, in box, direct from the manufacturer

The first B-17s saw combat in 1941, when the British Royal Air Force took delivery of several B-17s for high-altitude missions. As World War II intensified, the bombers needed additional armament and armor. The B-17E, the first mass-produced model Flying Fortress, carried nine machine guns and a four thousand-pound bomb load. It was several tons heavier than the prototypes and bristled with armament. Upon their arrival in the UK the US Army Air Force re-acquired several B-17Es built for the RAF and these still carried the Dark Earth/Dark Green & Pale Blue camouflage of the RAF. This B-17E took part in the first USAAF combat mission of the 8th Air Force daylight bombing offensive, an attack on the railway marshalling yards at Rouen, France, 17th August 1942. It remained based with 414 Squadron at Grafton Underwood in East Anglia until September 1942.

Boeing B-17E Flying Fortress

© Copyright 2003-2009 The Flying Mule, Inc.

Corgi’s 1:144 scale B-17 series includes the early war B-17E and late war B-17F and B-17G variants. The cockpit canopy, ball turrets and rear gunner’s canopy feature transparent windows, a feature uncommon in smaller scales. All machine gun stations include a sturdy all-metal machine gun that won’t bend or break. These models are constructed almost entirely of diecast metal with only the smallest amount of plastic, a common quality of most of Corgi’s 1:144 series aircraft. The tail and wing with integrated engine nacelles are solid diecast metal. Radial engine detail is present inside the engine nacelles behind the thinly stamped all-metal propellers.

© Copyright 2003-2009 The Flying Mule, Inc.

Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series

Corgi "Aviation Archive" diecast airplanes feature:

• Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
• Optional extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels.
• Poseable presention stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
• Many limited editions with numbered certificate of authenticity.
• Detailed pilot and crew member figures.
• Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
• Selected interchangeable features such as airbrakes, opened canopies and access panels.
• Selected moving parts such as gun turrets, control surfaces and swing-wings.

© Copyright 2003-2009 The Flying Mule, Inc.