1/48 Academy SB2U-3 "Battle of Midway" 12324

1/48 Academy SB2U-3 Vindicator 'Battle of Midway' Model Kit

Build an authentic replica of the Vought SB2U-3 Vindicator as flown during the pivotal Battle of Midway with this highly detailed 1/48 scale plastic model kit from Academy Models. This U.S. Navy scout bomber played a crucial role in one of World War II's most decisive naval battles, helping to turn the tide of the Pacific War in June 1942.

Historical Significance

The SB2U-3 Vindicator served with Marine Scout Bombing Squadron VMSB-241 during the Battle of Midway on June 4, 1942. Despite facing overwhelming odds and suffering heavy losses, these brave crews pressed home their attacks against the Japanese carrier fleet. While the Vindicators achieved limited direct success, their attacks helped draw Japanese fighters away from the decisive dive bomber strikes that sank four Japanese carriers, marking the turning point of the Pacific War.

Key Features

• Premium Photo-Etched Parts: Metal detail parts for enhanced realism
• Canopy Masking Included: Pre-cut masks for perfect paint results on clear parts
• Highly Detailed Cockpit: Authentic instrument panels and crew positions
• Realistic Landing Gear: Finely detailed main gear and tail wheel assemblies
• Authentic Bombshell: Detailed ordnance load for dive bombing configuration
• Finely Etched Panel Lines: Engraved structural lines and rivets throughout
• Multiple Livery Options: Decals for three different Battle of Midway aircraft
• Quality Korean Manufacturing: Academy's renowned precision engineering

What's in the Box

• Injection-molded plastic parts for complete SB2U-3 assembly
• Photo-etched metal detail parts for enhanced realism
• Pre-cut canopy masking sheets for clean painting
• Clear canopy parts for excellent cockpit visibility
• Detailed bomb and ordnance
• Waterslide decal sheet with three Battle of Midway marking options
• Detailed assembly instructions with painting guide and historical information

About the SB2U-3 Vindicator

The Vought SB2U Vindicator was the U.S. Navy's first monoplane scout bomber, entering service in 1937. The SB2U-3 variant featured improved armor protection, self-sealing fuel tanks, and enhanced armament. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney R-1535 Twin Wasp Junior radial engine, the Vindicator could carry a 1,000-pound bomb and was armed with two forward-firing .50 caliber machine guns and one rear-facing .30 caliber gun. By the time of the Battle of Midway, the Vindicator was already considered obsolescent, having been largely replaced by the superior SBD Dauntless, but Marine Corps squadrons still flew them with courage and determination.

Decal Options - Three Battle of Midway Aircraft

• Option 1: VMSB-241 Marine Scout Bomber Squadron aircraft
• Option 2: VMSB-241 alternate marking scheme
• Option 3: VMSB-241 third variant from the Battle of Midway

Recommended Complementary Products

Enhance your SB2U-3 Vindicator 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: ACD12324
Scale: 1/48
Skill Level: Intermediate to 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.