Convair XB-53 American Post-WWII Medium Bomber Concept (1949)

Scale: 1/144
Initial Release: 2006
Kit Rarity: 3
Model Length: 6.25 inches

About the Design

Originally designated the Convair XA-44 ("A" for "Attack), the XB-53 was intended to be a medium bomber capable of carrying 12,000 pounds of bombs as well as 40 high-velocity aerial rockets (HVARs). The plane's most unusual features were its 30-degree forward-swept wings, a concept based on recently captured German WWII-era research. It was believed this configuration would give the plane a greater climb-rate and maneuverability. 

To be powered by three G.E. J35 turbojets, the XA-44 found itself in competition with Convair's own XB-46, and while the company would have preferred to manufacture both planes, it ultimately chose to divert funds from the XA-44 to the more conventional XB-46 project. Under-funded and all but ignored, the XA-44 was redubbed the XB-53 in 1948, only to have the project cancelled altogether in 1949. Although two prototypes had been ordered, none were ever built.

About the Kit

Released by Fantastic Plastic Models in late 2006, this was a simple four-piece kit mastered by Scott Lowther and cast by Controlled Energy Designs. The kit's most distinguishing feature was its clear resin nose piece, which allowed the builder to have a clear nose and cockpit canopy "framed" using silvery metal decals, which were included as part of JBOT's extensive decal sheet.

This model was built from an original issue.