Special Hobby 72180 D-558-2 Jet & Rocket (1/72)

The Special Hobby 72180 plastic model kit represents the experimental aircraft D-558-2 Skyrocket in 1:72 scale. This is a highly interesting and faithfully reproduced miniature of an iconic Cold War machine, which marked one of the key milestones in the development of American jet and rocket aviation.

• Scale: 1/72
• Original user country: United States of America
• Material: high-quality plastic (polystyrene)
• Included: photo-etched parts and a clear canopy
• Category: plastic model kit
• Set contents: assembly parts, decals, assembly instructions
• Manufacturer: Special Hobby
• Product code: 72180

The D-558-2 Skyrocket is an American experimental aircraft, produced by Douglas Aircraft Company as part of a program aimed at studying supersonic flight. The D-558-2 prototypes were primarily tested between 1948 and 1956, including numerous missions over the Mojave Desert and at the famous Muroc Airfield (today Edwards Air Force Base). The Jet & Rocket version was equipped with both a jet engine and a rocket engine, enabling research across a wide range of speeds and altitudes. On November 20, 1953, pilot Scott Crossfield set a record with this aircraft, breaking the Mach 2 barrier—a milestone that is etched in the annals of aeronautical history.

The Special Hobby 72180 model has been designed with exceptional attention to detail—the skin, cockpit, landing gear, and unique propulsion system have all been recreated with authenticity in mind. The kit also includes high-quality decals and clear parts, enabling precise cockpit finishing. An attractive box and clear instructions make this model excellent for both advanced modelers and ambitious beginners (difficulty level: 3/5).

We recommend the Special Hobby 72180 D-558-2 Jet & Rocket to aviation modeling enthusiasts, experimental aircraft collectors, and all Cold War technology aficionados. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate unique models and realistic reproductions of groundbreaking machines.