A magnificent, heavyweight 1:72 scale diecast masterpiece replicating one of the most iconic and visually striking heavy bombers to serve in the European theater of World War II. This premium replica within Corgi's Aviation Archive Collector Series (AA33318) honors the legendary Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress (Serial #44-6009), famously nicknamed "Flak Eater".
Operating with the USAAF 305th Bombardment Group, 364th Bombardment Squadron out of RAF Chelveston, England, in August 1944, this aircraft was a vital component of the Allied daylight strategic bombing campaign. To counter the devastating head-on frontal attacks preferred by Luftwaffe fighter pilots, the definitive "G" variant of the Flying Fortress introduced an electrically operated Bendix chin turret. The crew of "Flak Eater" took full advantage of this new defensive asset, painting a highly distinctive and aggressive "shark mouth" design directly onto the chin turret to serve as a psychological deterrent to oncoming enemy fighters.
Despite the incredibly hostile and chaotic nature of the air war over occupied Europe, "Flak Eater" proved its name and vindicated the decision to apply the predatory nose art. The bomber successfully navigated through intense flak and fighter opposition to complete at least 28 combat missions, surviving the war relatively unscathed. After its valiant service, the aircraft returned to the United States in June 1945, where it was later scrapped at Kingman Army Airfield, Arizona.
Highly sought after by advanced military historians and aviation collectors, Corgi's 1:72 scale B-17 series is widely regarded as some of the finest, high-weight diecast models available. This massive replica boasts exceptional structural detailing and features an array of defensive armaments, including finely molded M2 Browning .50 caliber machine guns, alongside fully rotating top and ball turrets.
The model's wings feature functional deployable flaps and realistically simulated black de-icing boots on the leading edges. Underneath, the four detailed engine cowlings house accurately rendered Wright R-1820-97 "Cyclone" engines, complete with visible supercharger details on the bottom of each engine nacelle. For an incredible display of operational realism, the hinged bomb-bay doors can be opened to reveal a fully sculpted ordnance payload consisting of eight 500 lb bombs. Included is a heavy-duty, all-metal presentation stand to support this historic heavy bomber in a dynamic in-flight configuration.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Corgi
Series: Aviation Archive Collector Series
Model code: AA33318
Aircraft: Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress
Serial/Tail Code: #44-6009
Nose Art / Nickname: "Flak Eater"
Unit: USAAF 305th Bombardment Group, 364th Bombardment Squadron (305th BG, 364th BS)
Base Command: RAF Chelveston, Northamptonshire, England
Livery Theme: Natural Metal Finish with "Shark Mouth" Chin Turret and Green Tail Fin
Date/Period: August 1944 (World War II)
Scale: 1:72
Limited Edition: 1,300 pieces worldwide
Material: Heavyweight Diecast Metal
Special Features: Massive solid metal construction, iconic "shark mouth" chin turret graphics, rotating top and ball defensive gun turrets, clear cockpit and nose glazing, highly detailed Wright R-1820-97 "Cyclone" engines, underside supercharger detail, deployable wing flaps, simulated de-icing boots on wing leading edges, functional hinged bomb-bay doors, pre-loaded 8x 500 lb ordnance bomb load, heavy-duty all-metal presentation flight stand
Model Dimensions
Length: 12.25" or 31.1 cm
Width (Wingspan): 17.25" or 43.8 cm
