"NO. 363 TRW" MARTIN RB-57A

AVIATION ARCHIVE COLLECTION "MODERN WARFARE"

The Corgi "Aviation Archive" is the definitive scale model collection charting the history of flight and commemorating significant military and civil aircraft and events from the early pioneering years to the present day. Using original plans and rare archive material, each aircraft and livery has been meticulously researched and authenticated to bring you, the aviation enthusiast the finest range of collectible model aircraft. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the models feature rubber tires, interchangeable undercarriage and high quality livery details. Beautifully packaged, each replica comes with a sturdy display stand and certificate of authenticity.

HISTORICAL NOTE:    The first operational unit to re-equip with the RB-57A was the 363rd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing (TRW) which was stationed at Shaw AFB in South Carolina. The 363rd TRW reached initial operational capability in July of 1954. The 363rd TRW's operational readiness was short-lived. A problem soon appeared with the J65-BW-5 engines, which tended to burn oil and fill up the cockpit with smoke. This problem caused an additional production delay, and for a while in 1954, many completed B-57s were sitting on the ramp at Middle River awaiting engines. Production of the engine finally reverted back to the Wright Aeronautical Corporation as the J65-W-1. The last of 67 RB-57As was accepted by the USAF in September of 1954. Operationally, they were hampered by their high accident rate, which caused the RB-57As to be grounded for much of 1955. The service of the RB-57A with the USAF was destined to be relatively brief. Beginning in April of 1957, the 10th TRW began to re-equip with the the Douglas RB-66B Destroyer. However, it was not until November 1958 that the final RB-57A was relinquished by the 10th TRW. 1:72 scale Martin RB-57A features detailed livery, clear canopies, working bomb bay doors with authentic bomb load and fully detailed crew.

INFO:    SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, SOUTH CAROLINA, 1954
SCALE:    1:72
WING SPAN:   12.0  INCHES

Item Number: AA34702                                                                                                                                                                         Price: $69.95