Anigrand have just announced the release of a 1/144 scale resin Messerschmitt Me.321 Gigant, the enormous glider built for the invasion of Britain and Russia.

In 1940, due to the preparations for the invasion of Britain and Russia, the Luftwaffe's Transport Command realised a need for a larger capacity cargo and troop carrying aircraft. It was decided that the most cost-effective solution was to use giant gliders. Accordingly, the Luftwaffe issued a requirement for rapid development of a very large capacity transport glider to Junkers and Messerschmitt. Two proposals were accepted for construction as the Messerschmitt Me.321 Gigant and the Junkers Ju.322 Mammut. The Me.321 was to be built out of steel tubing framework, with wooden spars and covering of fabric. This allowed the quick construction and easy repair. The Me.321 made its maiden flight in February 1941, towed by a Junkers Ju.90. Lifting the massive glider was difficult, since the Ju.90 was not powerful enough. Heinkel responded by creating the He.111Z Zwilling which combined two He.111 bombers as better tug. The first Me.321 production aircraft entered service in May. In 1943, following the cancellation of the Stalingrad operation, some Me.321 were converted into the Me.323 with six engines.

Included with this resin release is:
-100 resin parts
-Clear resin canopies.
-Decals
Model dimensions:
-Span: 382 mm
-Length: 195 mm

Messerschmitt Me.321 Gigant
Type: Heavy transport glider.
Purpose: A glider capable of carrying either an 88 mm gun plus its tractor, or a medium tank.
Wing span: 55m.
Length: 28.15m
Height: 8.30m.
Power plant: None
Max speed: 285 km/h
Crew: 5
Passengers/cargo: 132 troops / 12 tonne load

Inside the box Anigrand have included four mystery resin kits of Luftwaffe tug and gliders. You may recognise the tug, it's very appropriate to the Gigant. The two will look spectacular together I am sure. Nice one Anigrand.

Ref no: AA-4077
Unit price: $98

For more information on the product above, please visit Anigrand.

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