P-40K Warhawk
New Fuselage Sprue

Eduard, 1/48 scale

Reviewed by Brett Green

The Curtiss P-40K Warhawk emerged as part of an ongoing effort to refine the P-40 series in response to evolving combat demands during World War II. By 1942, the need for improved performance—particularly at altitude and in hot climates—drove Curtiss to adapt the basic P-40E design. The P-40K introduced a more powerful Allison V-1710 engine variant and, in early production, a distinctive dorsal fin fillet to improve directional stability, which had been compromised by increased engine torque.

In terms of performance, the P-40K offered incremental improvements rather than a dramatic leap. Its maximum speed and climb rate were modest compared to more advanced contemporaries like the North American P-51 Mustang or Supermarine Spitfire. However, it retained the P-40’s strengths: a robust airframe, good diving capability, and effective firepower from its six .50-calibre machine guns. These qualities made it particularly effective in low- to medium-altitude combat and ground-attack missions.

Deployment of the P-40K was widespread, particularly in the China-Burma-India (CBI) theatre, where its rugged construction and reliability made it well suited to harsh operating conditions. It was flown extensively by the United States Army Air Forces, including units such as the famed Flying Tigers successors, who valued its durability and heavy armament. The type also saw service in the Mediterranean and Pacific theatres, often in ground-attack and close-support roles.

The P-40K also served with several Allied air forces. Notably, the Royal Air Force operated it as the Kittyhawk Mk.III, while Commonwealth units—including the Royal Australian Air Force—used it in the Western Desert and the Pacific. Other operators included Chinese Nationalist forces, who relied heavily on the type during the war against Japan.

It is time for 1:48 scale P-40 fanciers to celebrate.

Eduard's soon-to-be-released P-40K will be the first time that a 1:48 scale big-tail version has been offered by any manufacturer with a fuselage free from inserts or surgery in order to deliver an accurate P-40K.

Huzzah!

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I was fortunate to receive a test shot from the kit's Sprue L, the fuselage, rudder, propeller and, most significantly, the fuselage halves.

The distinctive big tail looks correct in shape and bulk. It is moulded as part of the full-length fuselage halves.

Surface textures are as good as you would expect. I think in my reviews of the Eduard 1:48 scale P-40E and N kits that these Kittyhawks boast Eduard's best and finest surface textures yet. The P-40K does not disappoint in this regard.

I built Eduard's 1:48 scale P-40E and it was a delightful experience. I don't expect anything different from this kit.

The P-40K will be first released as a Dual Combo Limited Edition kit. "Limited Edition" is no exaggeration. Eduard only manufactures the number of kits that are pre-ordered on the Eduard website, and only orders from retailers. The kit has already sold out and been discontinued on Eduard's website.

If you have missed out, however, there is a loophole. Eduard has also released an Overtrees boxing that supplies only the plastic sprues at a greatly reduced price - only USD$27.95.

Most Eduard 1:48 scale P-40E accessories will fit the P-40K too.

We'll have more details about Eduard's 1:48 scale P-40K after release.

Now all we need is an insert-free 1:48 scale P-40F/L Merlin-powered Kitty...

Thanks to Eduard for the test shot sprue

Text and Images Copyright © 2026 by Brett Green
Page Created 29 April, 2026
Last updated 29 April, 2026

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