Northrop JB-1 (1943)

Scale: 1/72
Initial Release: 2005
Medium: Resin
Kit Rarity: 3

About the Design

Following the success of Germany's V-1 "Buzz Bomb," the U.S. Army Air Corps decided to get into the jet-powered bomb business as well.  It gave Northrop Aircraft a contract to build a jet-powered "missile" based on its unique flying wing platform.  To test the aerodynamics necessary for an unmanned winged missile, a piloted glider version was built and first tested on August 27, 1943.   Further testing continued until late 1944.  And then, just as the unmanned prototype was under construction, the Army turned its attention to "pulse-jet"-powered missiles like the JB-2 "Loon," and the project was cancelled.

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About the Kit

This simple 1/72-scale resin model was produced by Newman R&D, a/k/a Muroc Models, in 2005. The kit consisted of a single cast wing and cockpit, plus joystick, three wheels, tail and windscreen.  Decals were also included.  Like all Muroc Models, it was available exclusively through the Edwards Air Force Base Museum gift shop.

This model was built from an original issue.