Just wanted to mention to some of you 1/144th scale aerial fans, that there are some decent prices, and availability of JV-44 FW-190Ds on eBay currently, if you haven't seen them.
They are prepainted, and assembled models, only needing a little work, like adding on the prop and tailfins, as well as decals.
The "Papagei" models (apparently, that means parrot in German, and they are named that, since they have bright red bellies, to prevent their pilots from being shot down by their own flak gunners).
They were used during Me-262 takeoffs and landings, as topcover protection, since the Schwalbes accelerated slowly compared to propeller driven aircraft, and were also very vulnerable on landings too. They weren't able to adjust their throttle settings quickly on the Jumo 004 engines, since if they did, they might either catch fire, or flame out.
They look superb, and are great for airbase attack scenarios, or other sorties.
I ran an Operation Bodenplatte scenario, years ago, in 1/300th scale, and it was lots of fun, so think it's time to put the shoe on the other foot, so to speak, and let the Germans defend this time.
If anyone needs some prepainted and assembled, 1/144th scale Me-262s to place around a runway, or to serve as sitting ducks, I've got some extras of those lying around.
Asking $8 USD each for them, plus shipping at cost.
You can reach me at:
Topgungrav AT yahoo D0t com
if you are interested in those.
finds his interest in WWII air-combat gaming has rekindled.