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HOBBY MASTER
Boeing Model 281 17th Sqn Chinese Air Force
model no. HA7502
scale 1:48
The Boeing Model 281 was the export version of the first P-26C. It had the same
carbureted engine used in the first “C” versions, new high headrest and wing flaps.
The 281 was actually on the assembly line before the “C” and was used to develop the
wing flaps needed to reduce the landing speed. The Model 281 made its maiden flight
in December 1934. The Chinese Air Force aircraft were ordered in 1934 but because of
funding problems did arrive until 1936.
In 1934 the Chinese Air Force ordered 11 Model 281 aircraft, the export version of the
Boeing P-26. The “Peashooters” were assigned to the 17th Pursuit Squadron of the
3rd Pursuit Group based at Chuyung Airfield near Nanking. The aircraft were delivered
with an overall light grey with large black letters. In mid August 1937 the 17th PS began
defending Nanking from Japanese G3M attacks. Due to losses from the new Japanese
A5M and a lack of spare parts the Model 281 was out of service when Nanking fell on
December 13 1937.
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