Special Hobby Aircraft Model Kit

Special Hobby Caproni Ca.312 ‘Italian Export Bomber’ (1/72) SH72541

The Special Hobby Caproni Ca.312 ‘Italian Export Bomber’ is a detailed 1/72 scale model kit representing one of the lesser-known twin-engined aircraft developed by the Italian aviation industry during the late 1930s. Based on the earlier Caproni Ca.310 and Ca.311 designs, the Ca.312 was created to fulfil export contracts for foreign air forces while also serving with the Italian Regia Aeronautica following the outbreak of war.

The aircraft was originally intended for Belgium and Norway. Belgian aircraft were designed with a stepped cockpit nose arrangement, while the Norwegian version featured a streamlined glazed nose similar in appearance to contemporary German bombers. However, before deliveries could be completed, both countries were occupied by German forces and the export contracts were cancelled. The unfinished aircraft were subsequently taken over by Italy and adapted for operational use.

This model kit includes finely moulded plastic components enhanced with high-quality resin parts, photo-etched details and 3D-printed components. These upgrades provide improved detail for the engines, cowlings, landing gear and interior areas, allowing modellers to create a highly accurate representation of this unusual aircraft. The combination of multimedia parts and unique marking options makes the kit particularly attractive to enthusiasts of lesser-known Second World War aircraft.

Several marking schemes are included. The Norwegian prototype is represented with its distinctive smooth nose profile, while three Italian-operated aircraft are also provided. These include a machine based in Italy, an aircraft operating in North Africa and a white-painted air ambulance that served on the Eastern Front in the Caucasus region. The variety of schemes offers interesting painting opportunities and highlights the diverse operational history of the type.

Browse more aircraft kits in our 1/72 Aircraft category.

• 1/72 scale plastic model kit
• Manufacturer SKU: SH72541
• Caproni Ca.312 twin-engined aircraft
• Injection-moulded plastic components
• 3D-printed detail parts included
• Resin detail parts included
• Photo-etched parts included
• Norwegian prototype marking option
• Three Italian aircraft marking options
• North African and Eastern Front schemes included
• Detailed engines, landing gear and interior
• Suitable for experienced modellers

History

The Caproni Ca.312 was developed as an export version of the successful Ca.311 light bomber and reconnaissance aircraft. Intended primarily for foreign customers, it incorporated more powerful engines, revised engine cowlings and modifications tailored to customer requirements. Belgium and Norway both ordered the type, but the rapid German invasions of 1940 prevented deliveries from being completed.

The aircraft already under construction were absorbed into Italian service and operated in transport, liaison and support roles. Some served in North Africa, while others flew on the Eastern Front. Among the most unusual variants were the white-painted ambulance aircraft used to evacuate wounded personnel from forward areas. Although produced in limited numbers, the Caproni Ca.312 remains an interesting chapter in Italian aviation history and a rare subject in scale modelling.

This model kit requires assembly and painting. Glue, paints and tools are not included and must be purchased separately.