Tamiya 61097 - 1/48 He162 Salamander retro-inspired kit for scale modellers  [61097]

Tamiya 61097 Heinkel He162 Salamander - kit introduction

This 1/48 scale Tamiya model recreates the Heinkel He162 Salamander, a compact German jet fighter from the end of World War II. The kit reproduces the aircrafts defining features and gives modellers an accessible jet project with period engineering details.

Significance in aviation history

The He162, often called the Volksjager or People fighter, was one of the first operational jet fighters. Powered by the BMW003 turbojet, it arrived late in the conflict as a rapid attempt to bring jet performance to front-line units. Its unusual configuration makes it an attractive subject for scale aircraft collectors.

Details and display versatility

Tamiya has modelled the top-mounted BMW003 turbojet and supplied a dolly so the engine can be shown separately. The kit allows the engine bay to be open or closed, the canopy to be posed open or shut, and the ejector seat to be removed to show cockpit detail.

Scale, parts and assembly

With a finished length of 205mm and a wingspan of 149mm, this kit sits well on a shelf or diorama base. A pilot figure and four marking choices are included to personalise the final build. Assembly requires adhesive and standard modelling tools.