1/250 2077 Graupner 42' Long Graf Zeppelin Aircraft Carrier for Radio Control
Wood Model Kit, Box Condition: Fair
Very rare and large kit of the 'Flugzeugtrager A' or 'Aircraft Carrier A". This German WWII carrier has a fasinating history. She was laid down in 1936, and launched in 1938. Raeder pressed for proper fitting out and completion, but ran into continuous and powerful resistance from Goring, who did not like the idea of the Navy having a mobile air-arm. Goring's interference proved conclusive and the ship, which was 95% complete, never entered service. The air wing was to be navalized Bf-109 Fighters and Ju-87 Dive Bombers. Work stopped completely in 1943 as Hitler became frustrated with the Navy. On April 25, 1945, the Germans scuttled the nearly complete carrier at Stettin just before the Russians arrived. What happened next has been unclear for years. It was generally assumed that the ship struck a mine and sank after the Soviets raised her. With the opening of Russian records, this story can be completed. In 1946 the Soviets raised the ship and towed it to Leningrad. There, they hoped to rebuild it and use it for it's intended purpose. This proved to be impossible at the time, so in 1947 it was towed to sea and used as an target. In 2006, the wreak was actually located. Kit has never been started and is complete. Primarily wood construction. Includes large plans and English Instruction book. For Radio Control. Box is missing one side panel and is only fair.
This item has been sold.
Click here to return to the main page.