Academy 1/48 B-25J Mitchell Glazed Nose (HK Models) Model Kit – ACD12377

Academy 1/48 North American B-25J Mitchell Glazed Nose Plastic Model Kit – HK Models Tooling

Build one of the most recognizable American twin-engine bombers of World War II with the Academy 1/48 North American B-25J Mitchell "Glazed Nose" plastic model kit (ACD12377). Featuring the highly detailed tooling originally developed by HK Models, this Academy release brings the famous B-25J medium bomber to life with detailed interior compartments, realistic defensive gun positions, and finely reproduced exterior surfaces.

The B-25 Mitchell served throughout World War II in a variety of bombing, ground attack, maritime patrol, and reconnaissance roles. This 1/48 scale model represents the glazed-nose B-25J variant, distinguished by its transparent bombardier's compartment and powerful twin-engine configuration.

Academy B-25J Mitchell Glazed Nose Model Kit Features

• 1/48 scale North American B-25J Mitchell medium bomber
• Detailed HK Models plastic tooling released under the Academy brand
• Distinctive transparent glazed bombardier's nose
• Detailed cockpit and crew compartments
• Reproduced internal bomb bay
• Detailed defensive machine gun positions
• Finely reproduced panel lines and aircraft surface details
• Twin-engine bomber configuration with radial engine nacelles
• Detailed landing gear and aircraft assemblies
• Two historical US Army Air Forces marking options
• Canopy masking stickers included
• Unassembled plastic model kit requiring assembly and painting

History of the North American B-25 Mitchell

The North American B-25 Mitchell was one of the most versatile medium bombers operated by the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Named in honor of aviation pioneer General William "Billy" Mitchell, the aircraft entered service in 1941 and subsequently operated in nearly every major theater of the war.

The Mitchell gained worldwide recognition following the Doolittle Raid of April 1942, when sixteen B-25B bombers launched from the aircraft carrier USS Hornet to strike targets in Japan. Although later B-25 variants differed significantly from the aircraft used during the raid, the operation established the Mitchell as one of America's most famous wartime bombers.

Throughout the conflict, B-25 aircraft performed conventional bombing missions, low-level attacks against shipping, and ground-support operations. The Mitchell's adaptability made it particularly valuable in the Mediterranean and Pacific theaters.

The B-25J Glazed Nose Variant

The B-25J was the final major production variant of the Mitchell and was produced in greater numbers than any other version. Powered by two Wright R-2600 Twin Cyclone radial engines, the aircraft combined a substantial bomb load with an array of defensive machine guns.

The glazed-nose configuration featured a transparent forward compartment for the bombardier, providing visibility during conventional bombing operations. Other B-25J aircraft were equipped with solid gun noses for low-level strafing missions, demonstrating the versatility of the Mitchell airframe.

Academy's 1/48 scale release captures the characteristic appearance of the glazed-nose B-25J, making it an excellent subject for World War II bomber collections and historical aviation displays.

Historical USAAF Aircraft Markings

The Academy B-25J Mitchell Glazed Nose model kit includes two aircraft marking options representing American bomber units from World War II:

• 345th Bombardment Group, 501st Bombardment Squadron – Pacific Theater aircraft
• 310th Bombardment Group, 380th Bombardment Squadron – Mediterranean Theater aircraft

These options offer builders the opportunity to finish their Mitchell in historically inspired wartime markings, highlighting the aircraft's service in different combat theaters.

Build a Detailed 1/48 Scale WWII Medium Bomber

Using HK Models tooling, this Academy B-25J offers an extensive modeling project with opportunities for detailed cockpit painting, bomb bay finishing, defensive gun detailing, and realistic exterior weathering. The transparent nose and canopy sections make careful interior finishing especially rewarding.

Builders can recreate the appearance of an operational USAAF bomber using authentic Olive Drab, Neutral Gray, or natural metal finishes appropriate to the selected aircraft. Panel line washes, exhaust staining, paint fading, and subtle weathering effects can further enhance the finished model.

Explore more American bombers, World War II fighters, military jets, and historic aircraft in our Academy Airplane & Helicopter Model Kits collection.

Complete Your Academy B-25J Mitchell Model

This plastic aircraft model kit requires assembly and painting. Model cement, paints, and hobby tools are sold separately. For USAAF aircraft colors, primers, metallic finishes, clear coats, and weathering supplies, explore our model paints and hobby painting supplies.

Discover additional military aircraft, armored vehicles, and naval subjects in our Academy Models collection, or browse our complete plastic model kits collection at Fusion Scale Hobbies.