The Horten Ho 229 was a jet-powered flying wing fighter-bomber developed by the German Horten brothers in the latter stages of World War II.
In 1943, the Horten brothers, who were working in the Fighter Inspection and Engineering Department, submitted an application for the 3×1000 project drawn up by Hermann Goering with the Horten IX project, which called for the development of a flying wing equipped with a jet engine. After Goering's approval in August of the same year, the project was put into action.
The unpowered prototype made its first flight in March 1944, and the second prototype, equipped with a Jumo 004 engine, made its first successful flight the following February.
After witnessing the high performance of the second prototype, the Air Force designated it as the Ho 229 and planned various derivative models, including a two-seater and a night fighter.
The aircraft is easy to manufacture, with a simple structure of plywood glued to a steel tube frame, and was designed to avoid excessive use of strategic materials such as aluminum.
It is also said to be the world's first radar stealth aircraft because it uses carbon powder for its paint.
Derivatives from the V3 to the V6 were in production in various locations, but production was discontinued following Germany's defeat in the war.
V3, which was the most advanced in construction, is currently kept and exhibited at the US National Air and Space Museum.
Specifications
- Pilot figure included (1 figure)
- Decals included (3 marking options)
- Overall width approximately 52.5cm when completed
