The Ba349 was a vertical take-off rocket interceptor prototype developed in Germany at the end of World War II. Its nickname, "Natter," means viper in German. The wooden aircraft carried 24 to 33 rocket projectiles in the nose and was powered by a single Walter liquid-fuel rocket engine. It launched from a vertical catapult using four solid-fuel rocket boosters.
After launch, the aircraft was radio-guided toward the target. Upon approach, the nose cover was removed and the rockets fired. The pilot was intended to eject by parachute, while the engine separated for potential reuse after the aircraft fell.
In March 1945, a manned test flight ended in disaster when the pilot lost consciousness immediately after launch, resulting in a fatal crash. Only a few dozen units were produced before the end of the war, and the aircraft never saw combat.
The kit includes resin parts, photo-etched parts, and six types of decals. Two vertical tails, two horizontal tails, three nose parts, and a display stand are also included.
When completed, the model measures approximately 193mm in length and 124mm in wingspan.
Note: The launch platform is not included.
