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Air Power Series>1:72 die-cast display model>TBM>HA1214

Grumman TBF-1 VT-8, June 1942 "Battle of Midway"
HA1214
General Background
The TBF/M "Avenger" was the biggest single engine aircraft during the WWII. She was ordered into production in Dec 1940 with first delivery just in time for the Battle of Midway. The "Avenger" was characterized by its rigid and strong body and its versatilities. She started out as a torpedo bomber but it soon took the duties as a close-support bomber, a patrol aircraft and even a trainer. After the war the Avenger was also used as crop dusters and forest fire water bombers.
The Aircraft
VT-8's first and best-known combat mission came during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Six TBF-1s were present on Midway Island, as part of VT-8 (Torpedo Squadron 8), while the rest of the squadron flew Devastators from the Hornet. Unfortunately, both types of torpedo bombers suffered heavy casualties, with only one Avenger surviving, although they were credited with drawing away the Japanese combat air patrols so the American dive bombers could successfully hit the Japanese carriers.
Specifications :
Dimensions:  
Length: 40' 11.5"
Height: 16' 9"
Wingspan: 54' 2"
Weight:  
Max weight: 17,364 lbs
Empty weight: 10,500 lbs
Engine & Power: 1 X Wright R-2600-20 @1900 hp
Power: 1700 HP at sea level
Performance:  
Stall Speed : Stall Speed: 77 mph IAS
Max Speed : 249 mph
Celling: 21,400 ft
Rate of climb: 1,400 fpm at sea level
Range: 1,100 miles
Armament: 2 X .50 cal machine guns in turret
  2 X .50 cal machine guns in wing
  1 X .30 gun in tail
  Various bombs or torpedo