Messerschmitt Me163 1a White 14 JG400 Brandis 1945 (1:72)

Messerschmitt Me163 1a White 14 JG400 Brandis 1945 (1:72)

This Oxford Diecast AC135 Me 163 model is a detailed 1:72 scale replica, representing aircraft “White 14” of JG 400, based at Brandis in 1945.

The model depicts the Messerschmitt Me 163 Komet, a revolutionary rocket-powered interceptor designed by Alexander Lippisch. It remains the only operational rocket fighter aircraft ever deployed in combat, making it one of the most unique designs in aviation history.

The aircraft is shown in its late-war Luftwaffe camouflage scheme with white tactical markings, reflecting its service use during desperate air defence operations over Germany.

With its compact and futuristic shape, the Me 163 stands out dramatically from conventional WWII fighters due to its tailless glider-like design and rocket propulsion system.

Features

• Aircraft Type: Messerschmitt Me 163A-1a Komet
• Operator: Luftwaffe (JG 400)
• Squadron: 14./JG 400
• Base: Brandis, Germany (1945)
• Aircraft Identifier: White 14
• Material: Diecast metal
• Scale: 1:72
• Role: Rocket-powered interceptor
• Historical Period: Late WWII (1944–1945)

Historical Background

The Messerschmitt Me 163 first flew in 1941 and entered operational deployment between 1944 and 1945. It was capable of reaching a maximum speed of close to 960 km/h, an unprecedented figure for its era, and could climb to combat altitude in just a few minutes under rocket power. The aircraft was assigned to Jagdgeschwader 400 (JG 400), the only unit to operate it in combat, but its effectiveness was limited by several factors, including extremely short powered flight time, the use of highly volatile and dangerous rocket fuel, difficulty in aiming due to its extreme speed, and a high accident rate during landing, as it effectively became a glider once its fuel was exhausted. Aircraft such as “White 14” were based at Brandis in 1945 and took part in the final defensive air operations over Germany.