Luftwaffe Dornier Do 335 Pfeil

The Dornier Do 335 Pfeil, meaning "Arrow" in German, was a unique heavy fighter aircraft developed by Dornier for the German Luftwaffe during World War II. It was one of the fastest propeller-driven aircraft ever built, capable of exceeding 750 km/h (466 mph), and was considered a revolutionary design with its unconventional push-pull configuration.

Its most distinguishing feature was its push-pull layout, where the two engines were positioned one behind the other, with the propellers on opposite ends of a long shaft. This configuration allowed for the slender fuselage and reduced drag, contributing to the aircraft's remarkable speed and maneuverability. It also enabled the Do 335 to serve as a bomber, with the rear engine providing extra thrust for takeoff and dive bombing.

The Do 335 entered service in early 1944 and was initially deployed in a fighter-bomber role. It quickly gained a reputation for its impressive performance, outperforming Allied fighters in speed and climb rate. However, due to the late introduction of the aircraft and the diminishing German war effort, it had a limited impact on the war.

The latest addition to the Oxford Aviation range is a 1:72 scale replica of the only Dornier Do 335 'Pfeil' still in existence. The original aircraft is on display in America at the Udva Hazy Centre, Smithsonian Museum, Washington DC. The model comes packed in an Oxford Aviation box and plinth to display the aircraft in flight mode.