Messerschmitt Me 262 A-1a/WGr.21
Arma Hobby 70084

Jet Fighter Equipped with WGr.21 Rocket Launchers

This kit represents one of the rarest and most distinctive variants of the world's first operational jet-powered fighter aircraft. The aircraft was equipped with two 21 cm Werfer-Granate 21 (WGr.21) rocket launchers designed to disrupt and attack tightly packed formations of Allied heavy bombers. Based on Arma Hobby's newly tooled kit, this edition includes highly detailed 3D-printed parts accurately reproducing the external rocket launchers and their mounting system.

Background

The Messerschmitt Me 262 was the world's first operational jet fighter to enter combat service. Capable of speeds exceeding 850 km/h (530 mph), it significantly outperformed contemporary piston-engine fighters and represented one of the most advanced aircraft developed during the final years of the Second World War.

In an effort to improve the effectiveness of attacks against Allied bomber formations, several Me 262s were experimentally fitted with 21 cm WGr.21 unguided rockets. Mounted beneath the forward fuselage, these large-calibre rockets were intended to break up bomber formations before the aircraft closed in with its 30 mm cannon armament. Only a limited number of aircraft received this modification, making it one of the most unusual and least common operational variants of the Me 262.

The Model

The kit allows the construction of a highly detailed replica featuring the distinctive WGr.21 rocket launchers. In addition to finely moulded plastic parts, the box includes precision 3D-printed components, photo-etched details and pre-cut painting masks for the canopy and wheels. Two historically documented marking options from Stabsstaffel, Jagdgeschwader 7, based at Rechlin in February 1945, are provided.

Kit Contents

• high-quality plastic parts,
• 3D-printed WGr.21 rocket launchers with mounting components,
• photo-etched details,
• pre-cut canopy and wheel painting masks,
• waterslide decal sheet with two marking options,
• illustrated assembly instructions with painting guide,
• download code for selected 3D-printable cockpit detail files.

Marking Options

• Messerschmitt Me 262 A-1a/WGr.21 "Green 1" – Stabsstaffel, Jagdgeschwader 7 (JG 7), Rechlin, Germany, February 1945. Aircraft carrying the markings of the Gruppenkommandeur; the position was held at the time by Major Gerhard Stamp. Factory number unknown.
• Messerschmitt Me 262 A-1a/WGr.21 "Green 3" – Stabsstaffel, Jagdgeschwader 7 (JG 7), Rechlin, Germany, February 1945. Factory number unknown.

Key Features

• rare Me 262 variant equipped with WGr.21 rocket launchers,
• highly detailed 3D-printed components,
• photo-etched parts for enhanced realism,
• pre-cut masks for the canopy and wheels,
• two authentic wartime marking options,
• comprehensive assembly instructions with painting guide.

Who Is This Kit For?

This model is an excellent choice for aviation enthusiasts and modellers interested in late-war Luftwaffe aircraft and the development of early jet aviation. Thanks to its high level of detail and unique configuration, it is equally suitable for display straight from the box or as the basis for an extensively detailed project.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does this model require glue?

Yes. This is a traditional plastic model kit intended for assembly with modelling glue.

Is the model pre-painted?

No. The parts are moulded in coloured plastic and require painting to achieve a realistic finish.

Are paints and glue included?

No. Paints and modelling glue are not included and must be purchased separately.

Does the kit include painting masks?

Yes. Pre-cut masks for the canopy and wheels are included.

What makes this version unique?

This edition represents the uncommon Me 262 variant fitted with under-fuselage WGr.21 rocket launchers, developed to improve the aircraft's effectiveness against Allied heavy bomber formations during the final months of the war.