Dornier Do 217 K-1/K-2 with FRITZ X | 1488 | Italeri

DO 217 K-1/K-2 with FRITZ X | 1488 | Italeri | 1:72

The DO 217 K-1 and K-2 were German medium bombers developed during World War II as improved versions of earlier variants. Production of these versions began around 1942 and continued until 1944. The aircraft was powered by two BMW 801 radial engines, each producing approximately 1,580 hp. This allowed the aircraft to reach speeds of up to approximately 515 km/h and had an operational range of about 2,300 kilometers, making it suitable for long-range missions.

Its armament consisted of multiple defensive machine guns placed in nose, dorsal, ventral, and tail positions to provide protection against interception attacks. The bomb load consisted of conventional explosive charges, but the K-2 variant was particularly known for its use of the Fritz X guided weapon. This radio-controlled precision weapon was developed for attacks on heavily armored maritime targets and represented a significant technological advance in aerial weaponry.

Several hundred copies of these variants were produced. The DO 217 K-1 and K-2 were primarily deployed over the Mediterranean and Atlantic waters, where they participated in attacks on Allied shipping and strategic maritime operations. The aircraft played an important role in precision bombing and was used against heavily defended targets.

The DO 217 is remembered for its deployment of the Fritz X guided weapon, which is considered one of the first operational precision-guided munitions. This development marked a significant change in air force strategy and weapon technology during the war and gave the aircraft a special place in aviation history.

This Italeri model is based on this innovative bomber and represents one of the most distinctive aircraft used in the development of precision weaponry during World War II.

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