North American AT-6C Harvard IIA Royal New Zealand Air Force Wood Display Model for Sale

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North American AT-6C Harvard IIA Royal New Zealand Air Force Wood Display Model For Sale

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North American AT-6C Harvard IIA Royal New Zealand Air Force Wood Display Model:
$239.50

\"You never really own a PlaneArts model - you merely look after it for the next generation\"

Dimensions of the model are:

LENGTH: 11.80 INCHES (30.00 CM), WINGSPAN: 17.10 INCHES (43.40 CM), SCALE: 1:29

This model replica is painstakingly hand carved and then hand painted out of solid kiln dried mahogany wood (from renewable sources) by our highly experienced and talented craftsmen at our Filipino owned factory near the original Clark Air Base in Pampanga and takes about 8-10 weeks to manufacture.

It is our aim to continue to be a \"sustainable\" manufacturer avoiding the use of man-made materials wherever possible such as plastics, resins or metal in an attempt to reduce our Carbon Footprint and to protect our environment for generations to come. Our models are \"works of art\" and not to be confused with mass made plastic kits or diecastlook–alikewhere almost all of these are Chinese manufactured. We are proud Filipino\'s exporting to all parts of the globe and creating employment opportunities in an impoverished part of our country.

Production in our factory is supervised by our own resident British Pilot who ensures that exact blueprints are used for these meticulously detailed scale models - custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications and that will be cherished by all. To watch a video of the PlaneArts model making production process please click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the listing)

Planearts Manufacturing Process

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The fully assembled model comes with a stained solid mahogany (or mahogany with steel arm) stand and is ready to display on your desk, bookcase or wherever you desire. The photographs you see have not been manipulated or digitally edited - they are exactly as the model looks in real life, but unfortunately even digital photography cannot do full justice to the look and feel of the model once you receive it!

PlaneArts have been producing models for over 20 years which are honed to perfection by the dexterity of our Skilled Master Craftsmen and carefully checked at all stages of manufacture by our dedicated Quality Assurance Team. We promote internationally on to ensure our products get the best exposure worldwide. Due to a high level of demand and the huge diversity of aircraft types and liveries most models are made to order and take about 8-10 weeks to produce (excluding National and Public Holidays). You will also notice that we offer models often way below the price of other companies advertising on the . We are able do this because of the direct manufacturing and selling basis of our business - models direct from the factory and not from an intermediary or trading / marketing company. All models are shipped internationally through FedEx, UPS or DHL Express Courier (Door to Door worldwide within about 3 business days). Fully traceable and insured against damage or loss).

Apart from those models you see in our store - using your photos or images, we will make you a personalized replica model of your aircraft with your own individual paint scheme, logos, registration number, antennas and all the details that make your airplane special. You can even upgrade and personalize your model with a fully customized transparent interior to match your seats, colors, instrument panel and all other important interior details. Alternatively, we can copy any current or historic commercial or military airplane or helicopter that has ever flown just by giving us images or photos. Each meticulously detailed scale model is custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications. We will build you a model that will not only meet your expectations but will go far beyond and with detail that will amaze you!

If you do not see the model you require in our store please message us on with a description and images of what you require including the size or scale of the desired model and we will then do a dedicated listing for you on . Our Customer Service Team will then help you with questions you may have and upon request update you on the status of your order. Our Production Team will work with you personally during construction until your model is ready to taxi on its journey to your own door in its foam fitted heavy duty export packaging. Before dispatch we will send you photographs from all different angles to review and approve prior to the model leaving. This is done to make sure that neither we, nor you, missed any important details.

To watch a video of the professional protective packing of PlaneArts models destined for all parts of the globe, please also click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the listing)

Packing Process

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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.