Special Hobby Plastic Model Kit
P-70 Nighthawk First US Nightfighter (1/72) SH72460
This 1/72 scale kit from Special Hobby represents the P-70 Nighthawk, the United States’ first operational nightfighter. Developed from the A-20 Havoc light bomber, the P-70 was fitted with radar and adapted for night combat duties. While it saw limited action in the Pacific Theatre, the type played a crucial role in training nightfighter crews throughout the war.
The kit includes six grey sprues and one clear sprue, providing a finely detailed airframe with sharp moulding. Clear parts replicate the cockpit and nose glazing with precision. Four marking options are included, covering three operational aircraft from the Pacific and one trainer based in the United States.
- Highly detailed 1/72 scale plastic model of the P-70 Nighthawk
- Based on the Douglas A-20 Havoc airframe
- Includes six grey sprues and one clear sprue
- Radar gear and early nightfighter configuration
- Four USAAF markings: three Pacific, one US-based trainer
This model kit requires assembly and painting. Glue, paints and tools are not included and must be purchased separately.
Suggested Paint Colours
| Paint Brand | Code | Colour Name |
|---|---|---|
| Tamiya | XF-1 | Flat Black |
| Tamiya | XF-2 | Flat White |
| Mr Hobby | C033 | Flat Black |
| Mr Hobby | C062 | White |
| Vallejo | 70.950 | Black |
| Vallejo | 70.951 | White |
Paints are shown for reference only; they may not be recommended in the manufacturer’s instructions and are to be used only as a guide. It is recommended that you conduct your own research to find the finish you want.
History
The Douglas P-70 Nighthawk emerged from wartime necessity, transforming the versatile A-20 Havoc light bomber into the first dedicated US nightfighter. With the sudden need to counter Japanese night-time raids, early P-70s were equipped with radar and four forward-firing machine guns, making them an effective stopgap measure before more advanced nightfighters like the P-61 Black Widow entered service.
Though combat deployment was relatively limited, with some aircraft flying in the Pacific, the P-70 found its most significant use as a training platform for nightfighter crews within the United States. It played an essential role in preparing airmen for the complexities of radar-guided interception in darkness. This kit captures both its operational history and its behind-the-scenes importance in shaping the USAAF’s night-time capabilities.
