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Scale 1:22  Length 10.5"  Wingspan 17"

Photography by Action Asia Photo
© 2002-8 Action Asia Photo - All Rights Reserved
www.actionasiaphoto.com

The German Me-163 was one of the most unusual aircraft of World War II. Fortunately, its potential impact was minimized by technical problems and the small number produced. "Project X" - the secret code name for the proposed tailless interceptor - began in 1937 under the direction of Dr. Alexander Lippisch. The intent was to develop a high-speed, fast-climbing defensive fighter by using a rocket engine. The first Me-163A prototypes were tested in 1941, but powered flight testing of the more advanced Me-163B was delayed until August 1943 by engine and fuel problems.

Although the Komet's rocket engine gave it a phenomenal climb rate, range was severely limited by its high fuel consumption. Furthermore, the hazardous fuels used were extremely volatile and sometimes exploded without warning, killing a number of pilots.

Production Me-163Bs were not ready for operational use until July 1944. The Luftwaffe planned to have small units of Komets dispersed to intercept Allied bomber formations, but only 279 Me-163Bs were delivered by the end of the war. The sole operational Komet group, JG 400, scored 9 kills while losing 14 of its own aircraft.

Length:       19 ft
Wingspan:   31 ft
Speed:         596 mph
Climb:         16,000 ft/ min
Range:        50 miles
Ceiling:       39,500 ft
Armament: Two 30 mm MK 108 cannons
Engine:       Walter rocket - 3,748 lbs thrust
Endurance: 7.5 minutes

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