Dragon Models 1:144 Warbirds 51038
Bell X-1A Display Model
USAF, #48-1384, Jean Ziegler, Muroc Army Air Field, CA (Edwards AFB), Maiden Flight, February 14th 1953, 2-Piece Set |
| 1:144 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Bell X-1A | | 3.5" | | 2" |
The famous Bell X-1 was the first aircraft to break the sound barrier in level flight. Its development started in 1945, and it was inspired by the shape of a Browning .50-cal machine gun round. The first supersonic test flight occurred on 14 October 1947. A derivative ordered by the US Air Force (USAF) in 1948 was the Bell X-1A, which was an improved design featuring greater fuel capacity and hence a longer engine-burn time. The X-1A looked slightly different with its bubble canopy and longer fuselage, although it was powered by the same Reaction Motors XLR-11 rocket engine. It was intended for research of aerodynamic properties at speeds surpassing Mach 2. The Bell X-1A (with serial number 48-1384) first exceeded Mach 2 in November 1953. Unfortunately, the experimental plane was later lost in an explosion in August 1955.
Joining earlier versions of the Bell X-1, Warbirds now has an excellent 1:144 scale model of the X-1A in its collection. Because of the fundamental differences between the X-1 and X-1A, the new model has received a brand new fuselage. In fact, Item No.51038 offers not one, but two, complete models in this set! The two models are different too - one is a realistic-looking replica, while the other has a novel transparent fuselage that allows a clear view of the aircraft's innards. Both aircraft can be mounted together in flying mode on a twin metal stand, a configuration that produces a stunning exhibit.
Designed to research the aerodynamic problems associated with flight at supersonic speeds, the X-1 was first flown on January 19th, 1946. It was the first of a series of (often top-secret) experimental aircraft, known as "X-planes", designed for testing new technologies. The X-1's fuselage was intentionally designed to replicate a Browning .50 cal bullet that was known to be stable in supersonic flight. Power came from a four-chamber liquid-fueled rocket engine. After numerous test flights and design refinements, the X-1 ushered in a new era of aviation by becoming the first aircraft to achieve supersonic flight on October 14th, 1947. © Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:144 Warbirds Series" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made plastic models of military aircaft. While these models may lack the heft of their metal counterparts, the painting and markings are applied with the same precision as other Warbirds, making them pefectly at home in any diecast collection.
Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:144 Warbirds Series" display model airplanes feature:
- Molded plastic construction.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
- Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear.
© Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
