Special Hobby 72163 D-558-2 Skyrocket (1/72) – plastic model kit

The Special Hobby 72163 D-558-2 Skyrocket model in 1:72 scale is a high-quality plastic kit of one of the most fascinating experimental aircraft from the late 1940s. The set does not include glue or paints, allowing the modeler to choose accessories and colors individually.

D-558-2 Skyrocket – an icon of the race for speed

The D-558-2 Skyrocket is a research aircraft designed and built by the Douglas Aircraft Company for the United States Navy (US Navy) and the American agency NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics – predecessor to NASA). The aircraft was developed during the intense period of jet and rocket aviation advancement in the Cold War era, after World War II (1948-1956). Its main purpose was to test airframe behavior at supersonic speeds and conduct aerodynamic research.

The most famous Skyrocket – D-558-2 number 2 – piloted by Scott Crossfield, was the first aircraft in the world to reach Mach 2 (twice the speed of sound), marking a golden chapter in aviation history. The tests were mainly conducted over California's Mojave Desert, and the results contributed to the development of future fighters, strategic bombers, and space vehicles.

Special Hobby 72163 D-558-2 Skyrocket model features

• Scale: 1/72 – provides the perfect balance between detail and convenient model size
• Country of use: United States
• Material: high-quality plastic
• Sprues accurately reproduce the airframe outline and characteristic rocket-type fuselage
• Small landing gear and interior parts guarantee a highly detailed finished model
• This kit does not include metal or resin parts as standard – the construction allows for aftermarket upgrades
• Category: plastic model kit for advanced aircraft modelers and enthusiasts of experimental planes and aviation history
• Especially recommended for modelers interested in test aircraft, fans of the 1:72 scale, and collectors of unique aircraft from the golden era of aeronautics
• Difficulty level: 3/5 – the model requires precision during assembly and painting, providing satisfaction for those with intermediate modeling experience

Special Hobby 72163 D-558-2 Skyrocket is a proposition that will delight any fan of jet aviation and the history of breaking the sound barrier. An excellent basis for upgrading and personalizing the model, and at the same time an intriguing addition to any experimental aircraft collection.