Hello,
This is a P-47D with Brazilian Air Force WW2 colors. The newly established Brazilian Air Force (1941) sent the 1st Fighter Group as part of an Expeditionary Force, operating under US Forces in Italy, from mid 1944 until the end of hostilities in Europe.
Since the allies had already air superiority in the area, these birds were mainly engaged in interdiction missions, initially operating from Tarquinia airfield, and moving north eventually. German anti aircraft fire was still very effective, and some pilots were KIA and a few became POW. Yet, they destroyed a lot of targets during their brief campaign.
As for the kit, no need to say anything else about Tamiya’s P-47 kits, they’re just perfect. Decals were FCM, a Brazilian brand which sometimes may pose some problems regarding silvering, so careful sanding and preparation before them is a must. Also used Eduard canopy masks and cockpit PE, and metal guns/pitot tube from Master Models.
The airfields they operated from were almost always very muddy, as my references pictures show, so I’ve decided to go kind of heavy regarding weathering and/or dirt.
Hope you enjoy!
Cheers