1/48 Academy USN F4F-4 Wildcat "Battle of Midway" 12355

1/48 Academy F4F-4 Wildcat 'Battle of Midway' Model Kit

Build an authentic replica of the legendary Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat as flown during the pivotal Battle of Midway with this highly detailed 1/48 scale plastic model kit from Academy Models. This rugged carrier fighter played a crucial role in turning the tide of the Pacific War during one of history's most decisive naval battles in June 1942.

Premium Features Included

This kit includes photo-etched metal parts and masking seals for enhanced realism and professional finishing, making it ideal for serious modelers seeking museum-quality results.

Historical Significance

The F4F-4 Wildcat was the U.S. Navy's primary carrier-based fighter during the early years of World War II. At the Battle of Midway on June 4-6, 1942, Wildcat pilots from carriers USS Enterprise, Yorktown, and Hornet fought valiantly against superior Japanese Zero fighters, helping protect American dive bombers as they sank four Japanese carriers. Despite being outperformed by the Zero in speed and maneuverability, the Wildcat's rugged construction, heavy armament, and superior tactics allowed American pilots to achieve victory in this turning point of the Pacific War.

Key Features

• Accurate 1/48 Scale: Precisely scaled WWII carrier fighter with exceptional detail
• Folding Wing Options: Build with wings folded for carrier deck display or extended for flight configuration
• Photo-Etched Parts Included: Premium metal detail parts for enhanced realism
• Masking Seals Included: Pre-cut masks for perfect canopy painting
• Highly Detailed Cockpit: Authentic instrument panel and pilot's seat
• Accurate Landing Gear: Detailed main gear and tail wheel assemblies
• Six .50 Caliber Machine Guns: Wing-mounted armament accurately reproduced
• Clear Canopy Parts: Transparent components for excellent cockpit visibility
• Battle of Midway Markings: Authentic U.S. Navy carrier aircraft decals
• Quality Korean Manufacturing: Academy's renowned precision engineering

What's in the Box

• Injection-molded plastic parts for complete F4F-4 assembly
• Photo-etched metal detail parts
• Pre-cut canopy masking seals
• Clear canopy parts
• Folding wing mechanism components
• Waterslide decal sheet with Battle of Midway markings
• Detailed assembly instructions with painting guide and historical information

About the F4F-4 Wildcat

The Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat was a compact, barrel-shaped fighter powered by a Pratt & Whitney R-1830 Twin Wasp radial engine producing 1,200 horsepower. The F4F-4 variant introduced folding wings for more efficient carrier storage, increased armament to six .50 caliber machine guns, and added armor protection for the pilot. While slower and less maneuverable than the Japanese Zero, the Wildcat's rugged construction allowed it to absorb tremendous battle damage and return home. Its self-sealing fuel tanks and armor protection gave American pilots a significant survival advantage in combat.

Battle of Midway Service

During the Battle of Midway, F4F-4 Wildcats flew combat air patrol missions protecting the American carriers and escorted dive bombers on their attacks against the Japanese fleet. Wildcat pilots engaged in fierce dogfights with Zeros, sacrificing themselves to protect the vulnerable dive bombers that ultimately sank the Japanese carriers Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, and Hiryu. The courage and determination of Wildcat pilots during this battle helped secure one of the most important American victories of World War II.

Specifications

• Crew: 1 (pilot)
• Engine: Pratt & Whitney R-1830-86 Twin Wasp radial
• Maximum Speed: 318 mph (512 km/h)
• Armament: Six .50 caliber M2 Browning machine guns
• Role: Carrier-based fighter

Recommended Complementary Products

Enhance your F4F-4 Wildcat build with these essential supplies available at MPM Hobbies:

• Tamiya Extra-Thin Cement - Professional-grade adhesive for clean assembly
• Testors Plastic Model Cement - Reliable all-purpose model glue
• MiG Paint Sets - Authentic colors for U.S. Navy aircraft finishing

Product Code: ACD12355
Scale: 1/48
Skill Level: Advanced
Manufacturer: Academy Models - Visit Academy's official website for more information about their products

Explore our complete selection of 1/48 Academy prop aircraft kits at MPM Hobbies.