Tamiya 61044 1/48 North American F-51D Mustang Korean War display kit  [61044]

F-51D Mustang background and Korean War role

The North American F-51D Mustang is one of the most recognisable fighters from the WWII era, with its origins traced to a New York hotel room in April 1940. Originally designated the P-51 by the U.S. Army Air Corps, it earned the name "Mustang" from British service crews. The P-51D, distinguished by its bubble canopy, became the definitive production version, with over 9,603 aircraft built and widely admired for its performance.

Equipped with six .50 caliber machine guns, three in each wing, the Mustang delivered concentrated firepower for air-to-air and ground attack tasks. Underwing pylons allowed carriage of auxiliary fuel tanks or 1,000-pound bombs, extending its mission flexibility. After WWII the Mustang continued in service worldwide, including use during the Korean War where its handling suited roles like forward air control, though the liquid-cooled engine introduced some operational vulnerabilities.