Matchbox Consolidated PBY-5 Catalina 1/72 Scale

Initially contracted for development in 1933 by the US Navy, the Catalina would go on to become the most extensively-built flying-boat in aviation history, an airplane used by numerous countries.

This airplane included several innovations, including the introduction of internal bracing resulting in a wing which was virtually a cantilever, except for two small streamline struts between hull and wing center-section on each side. Thus, the Model 28 was free of the multiplicity of drag-producing struts and bracing wires which had limited the performance of earlier flying boats.

Another innovation adding to aerodynamic efficiency was the provision of stabilizing floats which, when retracted in flight, formed streamlined wingtips. In April, 1939, the last PBY-4 production airplane was returned to the company for the installation of wheeled landing gear so that these aircraft could operate as amphibians, thus making them far more versatile.

This aircraft, when completed in November, 1939, emerged with the designation XPY-5A. Testing confirmed the very considerable advantages of the amphibian configuration, and the 33 airplanes outstanding on US Navy contracts for the PBY-5 variant were completed as amphibians. This airplane was powered by two 1,200-hp Pratt & Whitney R-1830-92 Twin Wasp radial piston engines, with a maximum speed of 179 mph at 7,000 ft., long-range cruising speed of 117 mph, service ceiling of 14,700 ft., and maximum range of 2,545 miles.

Airplane armament included two 30 caliber machine guns in the bow, one 30-caliber machine gun firing aft through a tunnel aft of the hull step, and two 50 caliber machine guns (one in each beam position), plus up to 4,000 pounds of bombs or depth charges.

Model Kit Reviews:
http://www.fortunecity.com/meltingpot/portland/971/Reviews/usaaf/pby-5-catalina.htm
http://modelingmadness.com/reviews/allies/us/jorgensenpbypreview.htm

Other information:
http://www.pby.com/
http://www.catalina.org.uk/catalina-history