During 1942, while still working on the Messerschmitt Me 163 rocket fighter, Alexander Lippisch developed a sharply-swept, leaf-shaped delta wing which he believed was capable of supersonic flight. The solid-fuel powered P.13 was one of several distinct Lippisch design studies presented in a brochure with the large fin and integral raised cockpit, and with an articulated, double-hinged landing skid. The wing trailing edge is angled slightly forwards and the downturned tip surfaces have been discarded. The outer wing sections could be folded upwards for transportation by rail. After World War II, Lippisch immigrated to the US where he continued to work for Convair on the F-102 Delta Dagger, F-106 Delta Dart and B-58 Hustler. The Lippisch P.13a delta wing technology is also the basis of the Dassault Mirage and Saab 35 Draken design after the war.

Designed by Alexander Lippisch as a ramjet-powered delta wing interceptor, the P.13a never progressed beyond the design study phase and no prototype examples were ever completed.

The Luft-X range presents affordable, ready-made resin models of proposed experimental military aircraft of the Luftwaffe in WWII in 1:72 scale.

Prior to and during the Second World War, German aeronautical engineers working for the Luftwaffe in corporate and university laboratories conceived of, designed and built aircraft that were years ahead of their time.

These secret designs included dramatic improvements in aerodynamics, propulsion and materials. Had there been more time, they may well have changed the outcome of the war. Fortunately for the Allies, the Nazi high command failed to grasp the importance of these advancements until it was too late to make a difference. After the war, captured Luftwaffe designs were studied and integrated into all facets of Allied aircraft development.

Luft-X collection captures these remarkable aircraft, showcasing the secret developments of WWII German aircraft and posing the haunting question - What if?

Luft-X display airplanes feature:

• Molded resin construction with no assembly required.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
• Transparent canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
• Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".

Info:     Lippisch P.13a Luftwaffe