Takom Aircraft Model Kit

Takom Henschel Hs-129 B-3 (1/48) 48002

The Takom Henschel Hs-129 B-3 represents one of the most unusual and heavily armed combat aircraft of the Second World War. Developed specifically for anti-tank operations, the Hs 129 was designed around pilot protection, battlefield survivability and powerful ground-attack weaponry. The B-3 variant took this concept to its extreme by mounting an enormous 75mm cannon beneath the fuselage, creating one of the most formidable tank-hunting aircraft ever to enter service.

Unlike conventional fighters adapted for ground attack duties, the Hs 129 was purpose-built to operate in hostile low-level environments. The aircraft featured extensive armour protection around the cockpit and vital systems, allowing pilots to attack heavily defended targets while reducing vulnerability to ground fire. Its compact design and rugged construction made it well suited to the demanding conditions of the Eastern Front.

The B-3 variant was developed from earlier Hs 129 B-2 aircraft and incorporated the massive BK 7,5 anti-tank cannon. Fed by an automatic loading system, this weapon gave the aircraft the ability to destroy heavily armoured vehicles with a single well-placed shot. Although the installation reduced overall flight performance due to its weight, it provided unmatched firepower against enemy armour.

This Takom kit captures the distinctive appearance of the Hs-129 B-3, including its armoured cockpit, twin-engine layout and prominent under-fuselage cannon installation. The large 1/48 scale provides an excellent platform for detailed painting, weathering and display, making it a standout addition to any Luftwaffe or WWII aircraft collection.

Browse more aircraft kits in our 1/48 Aircraft category.

• 1/48 scale plastic model kit
• Manufacturer SKU: 48002
• Henschel Hs-129 B-3 ground-attack aircraft
• Features the distinctive 75mm BK 7,5 cannon
• Detailed armoured cockpit
• Twin-engine configuration
• Dedicated anti-tank aircraft design
• Accurate exterior surface detailing
• Ideal for advanced painting and weathering
• Suitable for Luftwaffe collections
• Large-scale display model
• Suitable for experienced modellers

History

The Henschel Hs 129 was developed in response to Luftwaffe requirements for a specialised close-support and anti-tank aircraft. Lessons learned during the Spanish Civil War highlighted the need for an aircraft capable of operating directly over the battlefield while engaging armoured vehicles and fortified positions. The result was a heavily protected aircraft designed specifically for ground attack operations.

As Allied and Soviet tanks became more heavily armoured, increasingly powerful weapons were fitted to the Hs 129. This development culminated in the Hs 129 B-3, which carried the BK 7,5 cannon derived from the German PaK 40 anti-tank gun. The weapon was the largest calibre cannon fitted to any operational aircraft during the war. While the added weight affected handling and performance, the aircraft possessed exceptional anti-armour capability and became one of the most heavily armed combat aircraft ever produced.

Although only limited numbers were built before production ended in 1944, the Hs 129 B-3 remains one of the most distinctive aircraft of the Second World War and a remarkable example of specialised military aviation design.

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