General Product Description
Our PlaneArts North American AT-6C Harvard Royal New Zealand Air Force model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.
The North American AT-6C Harvard Royal New Zealand Air Force model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful, finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any military aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual real life version.
There are many types of military propeller aircraft, but the basic types are bombers, fighters, fighter bombers, spotter planes, transporters, patrol aircraft, trainers, and reconnaissance and observation aircraft. All these types of aircraft are used for different types of missions. If you're a fan of historic or present-day military aviation, our model aircraft will bring the excitement and character of these aircraft right into your own home. You can order a wood airplane model of a North American B-25 Mitchell Bomber, a B17 - Flying Fortress, or a P-51 Mustang Nervous Energy V not forgetting the Bf 109, Spitfire, FW 190, A6M Zero, P-38 and F4U. These classic, propeller airplane models are of the highest quality. Each is individually crafted by our expert craftsmen. They produce handmade scale mahogany airplane models of the finest aircraft from World War I and II to present day biplanes and triplanes.
If you require, we can also make the North American AT-6C Harvard Royal New Zealand Air Force model in any other military, government or even private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary, in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimps, dirigibles, blimps, boats, and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.
As you may or may not be aware the trade name and copyright permissions for the North American aircraft are now under the ownership of the Boeing Company and as such, we are proud to be one of the very few international and fully licensed manufacturers of Boeing solid mahogany wood models. You may be interested to read more about the fascinating background to the famous aviation names now under the Boeing umbrella by clicking on the following “Officially Licensed Product” image below:
The AT-6C Harvard of the Royal New Zealand Air Force: A Historic Trainer
Among the myriad aircraft that have graced the skies, few have etched as significant a mark in the annals of military aviation as the North American AT-6C Harvard. This aircraft, pivotal in the training of thousands of pilots during and after World War II, holds a special place in the history of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF). Renowned for its robust design and reliability, the Harvard was a key asset in preparing pilots for the complexities of wartime aviation.
Historical Context:
The North American AT-6 Harvard was first introduced in the late 1930s by North American Aviation in the United States. It quickly became one of the most popular advanced training aircraft for military pilots. The AT-6C variant, introduced during World War II, featured improvements tailored for mass production, such as simplified construction methods and the use of non-strategic materials.
New Zealand, then part of the British Commonwealth, adopted the Harvard as part of its military aviation fleet. The RNZAF used the Harvard extensively for training purposes from the early 1940s onwards. The aircraft’s deployment came at a crucial time when New Zealand was expanding its air capabilities in response to global military demands.
Role in Pilot Training:
The Harvard’s role in the RNZAF cannot be overstated. It served as an advanced trainer aircraft, bridging the gap between basic trainers and the front-line fighters and bombers of the time. Pilots would typically transition from basic trainers such as the de Havilland Tiger Moth to the more complex and powerful Harvard before moving on to combat aircraft.
The AT-6C model was particularly valued for its handling characteristics, which closely mimicked those of contemporary combat aircraft. This made it an ideal platform for training future fighter pilots. Its powerful Pratt & Whitney R-1340-AN-1 radial engine, producing 600 horsepower, allowed it to undertake a variety of training operations, including aerobatics, instrument flying, and tactical maneuvers.
Contribution to WWII and Beyond:
During World War II, the Harvard played a pivotal role in the Commonwealth Air Training Plan, under which pilots from various Commonwealth nations, including New Zealand, were trained in Canada and other parts of the Empire. Post-war, the Harvard continued to serve the RNZAF well into the 1970s. Its longevity in service is a testament to its design and utility.
Preservation and Legacy:
Today, the Harvard is a revered part of New Zealand’s aviation heritage. Several of these aircraft have been meticulously restored and are now flown at air shows, serving as a living history of New Zealand’s military aviation. These flying museums pay homage to the pilots who trained on these aircraft and the technicians who maintained them.
Conclusion:
The North American AT-6C Harvard holds a distinguished place in the history of the Royal New Zealand Air Force. As a trainer, it not only equipped pilots with the necessary skills needed for wartime but also contributed significantly to the allied training efforts during World War II. The preservation of these aircraft serves as a reminder of the pivotal role they played in shaping the outcomes of mid-20th-century conflicts and the enduring legacy of those who flew them.
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