1/72 TP-40N ‘Two-seat Warhawk’

The Curtiss P-40 Warhawk was one of the most widely used American fighter aircraft during the first half of the Second World War and became one of the symbols of the Allied air force’s deployment across a number of theatres of war. The P-40N was one of the later and most extensively produced variants, in which the designers sought to lighten the airframe and improve performance, particularly rate of climb and speed. Although the P-40 was no longer among the most modern fighters in the later stages of the war, it retained its place in both combat service and training thanks to its robustness, good flight characteristics at lower altitudes and reliability. The two-seater variant, represented by the TP-40N, arose from the need for trainer and transition aircraft that would allow pilots to familiarise themselves with the type under the supervision of an instructor – this is therefore a less common, but interesting chapter in the history of this aircraft.

The Special Hobby 1/72 scale kit is based on the P-40N mouldings, which are supplemented with new clear parts and 3D-printed parts for the second cockpit. It is precisely this combination that enables the construction of the distinctive two-seater version. However, the build does require modification of the fuselage – a hole must be cut out for the second cockpit, with the cuts simply following the panel lines. For this reason, the model is recommended for more experienced modellers who are comfortable with modifying parts beyond simple gluing.

The decals feature three USAAF aircraft, offering a choice of different schemes for the finished model: two aircraft are in olive-grey livery and one in metallic colour. The kit also includes a mask for the fuselage markings, which makes it easier to apply them accurately and cleanly. The model is released in a limited edition and represents an unusual variant suitable for collectors as well as modellers seeking a less traditional subject. We also offer a range of accessories and figures to complement the kit. The pack does not contain the paints or adhesives required for assembly.