The XB-70 Valkyrie is one of those aircraft we’ve been pestering modelmakers to replicate for a very long time. Its an iconic aircraft that most warbird enthusiasts would give an arm to add to their collection even if it never made it pass the testing phase and would likely tip the scales in the ubiquitous 1:72 scale.
For those unfamiliar with the aircraft, the North American Aviation XB-70 Valkyrie is a retired prototype version of the planned B-70 nuclear-armed, deep-penetration supersonic strategic bomber for the United States Air Force Strategic Command. Designed in the late 1950s by North American Aviation (NAA) to replace the B-52 Stratofortress and B-58 Hustler, the six-engined, delta-winged Valkyrie could cruise for thousands of miles at Mach 3+ while flying at 70,000 feet (21,000 m).
As it turns out, our prayers may have been answered. Recently, we learned that JC Wings plans on tackling the Valkyrie, posting an unpainted prototype image of well, the prototype aircraft. Granted, no plans are underway to replicate the bomber in 1:72 scale, largely because of its size and concomitant cost. So, they plan on putting the Valkyries to flight in both a smaller 1:400 and 1:200 scale, the latter still tipping the scales in both weight and size. We don’t as yet have a timeline as to when this warbird will be ready for pre-order much less available for shipment, not to mention its length and heft, but we can presume it’ll be a whopper when its completed and ready for ogling. Keep your fingers crossed that it satisfies everyone’s appetite.
Update: Apparently, Dragon once offered the XB-70 in 1:200 scale several years back although it was composed of plastic not metal. The model measured almost 12-inches in length and boasted a wingspan of just under 7-inches, roughly the size of a 1:72 scale F-14 Tomcat. So, we’re guesstimating the model will clock in at around 4-pounds, give or take a few ounces. Still a pretty nice-sized bird of prey.
