1917 Red Baron Fokker Triplane

1917 Red Baron Fokker Triplane

This 1917 Red Baron Fokker Triplane DR-1 425/17 is perhaps the most famous fighter of all time. The triplane number 425/17 was the last mount of the Red Baron, Rittmeister Manfred Freiherr von Richthofen, the top-scoring ace of World War 1 with 80 confirmed kills. This replica model is handcrafted in iron frame with a scale of 1:30. This Red Baron Fokker Triplane DR-1 model comes with intricate details such as a propeller, wings, and landing wheels. They are beautifully painted with the authentic WWI paint and symbols. A must have for the collector and enthusiast! • 100% iron frame • Metal wheels • Metal, gold painted propeller • Wheels roll • Propeller spins • Decaled insignia • Landing gear and missiles are securely welded on

History

In early 1917, the British Sopwith Triplane began flying in combat, so the German High Command requested that a triplane be developed for their use. Many concepts were tried in an effort to produce aircraft that outperformed the enemy. Several companies entered the competition; the contract was awarded to Anthony Fokker, a Dutch aircraft designer who had been building aircraft in Germany from before the war. While not as fast as contemporary fighters, the Fokker Triplane had a reputation as a great dogfighter due to its great climbing and turning ability. Although over 300 were built, no original Fokker Triplanes are left in existence; the last was destroyed in WWII bombings of Berlin. This aircraft is painted in the colors of Manfred von Richtofen, the famous “Red Baron,” who achieved 19 of his last 80 victories in the triplane. On von Richtofen’s last day, the front lines had been in flux, and he found himself chasing a Sopwith Camel at low level over enemy territory. Although there are many stories about his death, it is generally accepted that he was killed by one bullet from the ground.