{"title":"Experimental \u0026 What If?","description":"\u003cp\u003eSome of the most fascinating scale model kits ever produced explore aircraft that never quite made it into service — or never existed at all. This collection brings together \u003cstrong\u003eexperimental, prototype, and hypothetical aircraft\u003c\/strong\u003e kits: the radical designs that pushed engineering to its limits, the paper projects that captured modellers' imaginations, and the \"What If?\" scenarios that ask what might have been. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom secret Luftwaffe jet and rocket projects to Allied experimental types, Japanese late-war interceptors, and speculative variants that never flew in anger, these kits offer a unique building challenge and a window into the wilder reaches of wartime aeronautical design. Subjects include flying wings, tailless designs, canard fighters, rocket-powered interceptors, and more.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNew experimental and What If kits are added regularly — check back often or browse by manufacturer to discover your next unconventional build.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"armory-models-group-1-72-vk-36-01h-german-wwii-experimental-heavy-tank-72210","title":"Armory Models Group 1\/72 VK 36.01(H) German WW2 Experimental Heavy Tank (72210)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe VK 36.01(H) was a German experimental heavy tank design of the early 1940s, developed by Henschel as a contender in the programme that ultimately produced the Tiger I. Only a small number of hulls were built before the design was abandoned in favour of heavier concepts. Armory Models Group's 1\/72 kit captures this rarely-modelled prototype with accurate proportions and markings — a distinctive addition for collectors focusing on experimental and prototype German armour.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Armory Models Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52555624743253,"sku":"72210","price":25.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1124385-21856-91-pristine.jpg?v=1763129872"},{"product_id":"rs-models-1-72-messerschmitt-bf-109x-experimental-fighter-92085","title":"RS Models 1\/72 Messerschmitt Bf-109X Experimental Fighter (92085)","description":"\u003cp\u003eRS Models 1\/72 scale Messerschmitt Bf-109X experimental fighter model kit. This rare variant showcases advanced German aeronautical design from the final stages of World War II. Features precision-moulded components, authentic decals, and detailed cockpit elements. Perfect for serious modellers and collectors interested in prototype aircraft and aviation history. Comprehensive assembly instructions included.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RS Models","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52555709022549,"sku":"92085","price":17.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/230899-13777-39-pristine.avif?v=1763194145"},{"product_id":"azmodel-1-72-heinkel-he-162a-9-salamander-jv44-az7825","title":"AZmodel 1\/72 Heinkel He 162A-9 \"Salamander\" JV44 (AZ 7825)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe He 162A-9 was a proposed improved variant of the Salamander with uprated engines, associated here with JV44 — the elite Luftwaffe fighter unit formed from veteran aces in the war's final weeks. AZmodel's 1\/72 kit captures this specific configuration with authentic late-war Luftwaffe markings. A specialist subject for serious He 162 collectors building the full variant range.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AZmodel","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52555722883413,"sku":"AZ 7825","price":10.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1431292-17841-77-t270.avif?v=1764856512"},{"product_id":"azmodel-1-72-heinkel-he-162c-salamander-az7827","title":"AZmodel 1\/72 Heinkel He 162C \"Salamander\" (AZ 7827)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe He 162C was a projected swept-wing development of the Salamander, designed to improve high-speed handling by replacing the straight wing with a 35-degree swept planform. It never flew. AZmodel's 1\/72 kit realises this paper project in authentic Luftwaffe markings. An intriguing “what if” for Luftwaffe 46 and He 162 variant collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AZmodel","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52555722916181,"sku":"AZ 7827","price":10.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1431296-17841-94-pristine.webp?v=1763201143"},{"product_id":"azmodel-1-72-heinkel-he-162c-salamander-in-foreign-services-az-7835","title":"AZmodel 1\/72 Heinkel He 162C \"Salamander\" foreign services (AZ 7835)","description":"\u003cp\u003eAfter Germany's defeat, several He 162 Salamanders were captured and evaluated by Allied air forces, including the RAF, USAAF, and Soviet VVS. This AZmodel 1\/72 kit presents the He 162C in speculative post-war foreign service markings — a fascinating alternative history treatment. A companion piece to the wartime He 162 kits for collectors who enjoy the captured\/evaluated aircraft genre.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AZmodel","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52555723080021,"sku":"AZ 7835","price":13.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1456763-38473-89-pristine.avif?v=1763201372"},{"product_id":"azmodel-1-72-heinkel-he-162d-9-luftwaffe-46-az-7837","title":"AZmodel 1\/72 Heinkel He 162D-9 \"Luftwaffe 46\" (AZ 7837)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe He 162D was a proposed development featuring a butterfly V-tail in place of the standard tail assembly, intended to improve directional stability. It remained on the drawing board. AZmodel's 1\/72 kit presents this speculative variant in authentic late-war Luftwaffe markings. A niche but visually striking addition to an He 162 variant collection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AZmodel","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52555723145557,"sku":"AZ 7837","price":13.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/download_791e690b-3e86-487a-abf7-2ed185051ceb.webp?v=1765949889"},{"product_id":"azmodel-1-72-heinkel-he-162s-9-v-tail-jet-az-7839","title":"AZmodel 1\/72 Heinkel He 162S-9 \"V-Tail Jet\" (AZ 7839)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe He 162S was a proposed two-seat trainer variant of the Salamander, intended to convert pilots onto the demanding jet type before solo flight. The S-9 designation applies to a specific configuration of this concept. AZmodel's 1\/72 kit captures this paper project with authentic Luftwaffe markings. A collector's piece for those building comprehensive He 162 family collections.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AZmodel","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52555723473237,"sku":"AZ 7839","price":13.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1466529-17841-78-pristine.avif?v=1763201689"},{"product_id":"azmodel-1-72-heinkel-he-162b-4-volksjager-46-az-7854","title":"AZmodel 1\/72 Heinkel He 162B-4 \"Volksjager 46\" (AZ 7854)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe He 162B was a proposed twin-engine development of the Salamander concept, with two BMW 003 jets mounted above the fuselage for improved performance. The B-4 designation refers to a specific armament and configuration variant. AZmodel's 1\/72 kit presents this paper project with authentic Luftwaffe markings. A bold and unusual looking subject for Luftwaffe 46 collections.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AZmodel","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52555724128597,"sku":"AZ 7854","price":12.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1501891-12741-25-pristine.avif?v=1763202319"},{"product_id":"um-1-72-experimental-light-tank-bt-6-683","title":"UM Models 1\/72 Experimental Light Tank BT-6 (683)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe UM 1\/72 Experimental Light Tank BT-6 brings a rare Soviet prototype to your collection. This innovative fast tank showcases unconventional design features that never reached mass production. Precision-engineered components and detailed surface work capture the experimental nature of this unique vehicle. Perfect for collectors interested in alternative armour development and Soviet engineering innovation. A distinctive addition for those seeking historically significant rarities.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"UM Models","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52555753390421,"sku":"683","price":10.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1280859-16133-54-pristine.jpg?v=1763270427"},{"product_id":"special-hobby-1-72-messerschmitt-me-163c-what-if-war-sh72263","title":"Special Hobby 1\/72 Messerschmitt Me 163C \"What-If War\" (SH72263)","description":"\u003cp\u003eExplore alternative history with this Special Hobby 1\/72 scale Messerschmitt Me 163C \"What-If War\" model kit. This speculative variant of the revolutionary rocket-powered interceptor features imaginative design elements and enhanced armament configurations that never saw production. The kit delivers crisp moulding detail, authentic cockpit components, and decals representing fictional Luftwaffe markings. A fascinating build for modellers interested in experimental aircraft and counterfactual military aviation. Combines historical foundation with creative interpretation for a unique display piece.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Special Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52555874206037,"sku":"SH72263","price":16.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/183680-10105-67-1080.webp?v=1763531555"},{"product_id":"ibg-1-72-focke-wulf-fw-190d-14-prototype-limited-edition-72562","title":"IBG 1\/72 Focke-Wulf Fw 190D-14 Prototype Limited Edition (72562)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Fw 190D-14 was an experimental variant of Focke-Wulf's renowned fighter, developed to explore enhanced performance through aerodynamic refinement and engine modifications. This IBG 1\/72 scale Limited Edition kit provides detailed plastic components faithfully representing the prototype's unique configuration and construction details. The set includes authentic decals, finely rendered cockpit and engine components, and comprehensive assembly documentation. Highly sought by advanced modellers and Luftwaffe specialists, this exclusive kit offers the opportunity to build a rare and historically significant aircraft that exemplifies late-war German fighter development.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"IBG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52555880497493,"sku":"IBG-72562","price":24.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/ibg72562_1.webp?v=1765788265"},{"product_id":"tamiya-1-72-shinden-kyushu-j7w1-experimental-intercepter-fa-105","title":"Tamiya 1\/72 Shinden Kyushu J7W1 Experimental Intercepter (FA-105)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Kyushu J7W1 Shinden was one of WWII's most unconventional fighters, featuring a distinctive canard design with the main wing mounted at the rear fuselage. Tamiya's 1\/72 scale kit faithfully reproduces this experimental interceptor's unique aerodynamic layout and sleek profile. The model includes detailed plastic components, authentic decals, and comprehensive instructions for assembly. Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts seeking to build a historically significant and visually striking aircraft that represents Japanese innovation in fighter design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is wear on the box - See photos.  Kit is complete and unstarted.  Instructions and decals are present.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tamiya","offers":[{"title":"Fair (F)","offer_id":52568903680341,"sku":"FA105-PRELOVED-FAIR","price":17.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/133057-32432-46-pristine.avif?v=1763706313"},{"product_id":"revell-1-72-messerschmitt-me-262-a-1a-04166","title":"Revell 1\/72 Messerschmitt Me 262 A-1a (04166)","description":"\u003cp\u003eBuild and display one of aviation history's most revolutionary aircraft with this Revell 1\/72 scale Messerschmitt Me 262 A-1a model kit. The world's first operational jet-powered fighter comes to life through detailed plastic components, authentic decals, and clear assembly guidance. Featuring the distinctive twin-engine design and sleek fuselage, this kit suits modellers with intermediate experience. A must-have for WWII aviation collectors and history enthusiasts seeking an impressive centrepiece.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Revell","offers":[{"title":"Fair (F)","offer_id":52568380866901,"sku":"04166-PRELOVED-FAIR","price":10.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/111403-10105-77-720.avif?v=1764944613"},{"product_id":"azmodel-1-72-ah-1g-cobra-what-if-limited-edition-az-7484","title":"AZmodel 1\/72 AH-1G Cobra \"What If?\" (Limited Edition) (AZ 7484)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA limited edition “what if” release presenting the AH-1G Huey Cobra in speculative markings outside its standard US Army green — covering hypothetical operator schemes and alternative liveries that were never applied operationally. AZmodel's 1\/72 kit captures the Cobra's narrow fuselage and tandem cockpit with the non-standard decal options that make this edition distinctive. A collectors' item for Cobra enthusiasts who enjoy the “what if” genre.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AZmodel","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52556015993173,"sku":"AZ 7484","price":12.35,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/633656-13777-42-pristine.webp?v=1768057723"},{"product_id":"azmodel-1-72-heinkel-he-162a-2-post-war-az-7822","title":"AZmodel 1\/72 Heinkel He 162A-2 \"Post war\" (AZ 7822)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe He 162A-2 was the main production Salamander variant, and several examples were captured intact by Allied forces at the war's end. This AZmodel 1\/72 kit covers the A-2 in post-war evaluation markings applied by Allied test units in the UK, France, and USA — a fascinating and visually distinctive chapter in the type's history. A strong companion to the wartime He 162 kits.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AZmodel","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52556017762645,"sku":"AZ 7822","price":13.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1466521-17841-95-pristine.webp?v=1768060798"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-1-72-messerschmitt-me-262-a-1a-70083","title":"Arma Hobby 1\/72 Messerschmitt Me 262 A-1a (70083)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Me 262 A-1a Schwalbe was the world's first operational jet fighter, entering Luftwaffe service in mid-1944 and shocking Allied pilots with its speed advantage of over 100mph. Flown by elite units including JG 7, it showed what jet power could achieve while demonstrating the limitations of a revolutionary weapon introduced too late. Arma Hobby's 1\/72 kit captures the A-1a's swept wings and twin Jumo 004 nacelles with authentic late-war Luftwaffe markings.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53645867876693,"sku":"70083","price":22.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1586420-10105-17-720_166de334-d4b7-455c-ae6d-ca8be341a375.avif?v=1775661758"},{"product_id":"takom-1-35-sd-kfz-181-pz-kfw-vi-ausf-e-tiger-i-experimental-project-3-in-1-2192","title":"Takom 1\/35 Sd.Kfz.181 Pz.Kfw.VI.Ausf.E Tiger I Experimental Project 3 in 1 (2192)","description":"The Takom 1\/35 Sd.Kfz.181 Pz.Kfw.VI.Ausf.E Tiger I Experimental offers three distinct build options in a single comprehensive kit. This highly detailed scale model captures the iconic German heavy tank with exceptional accuracy, featuring multiple turret and superstructure variants that reflect experimental configurations explored during WWII development.\n\nThe kit includes precision-engineered plastic components with fine surface detail, comprehensive decal sheets for authentic markings, and detailed assembly instructions. Ideal for experienced modellers seeking a challenging build with historical depth, this three-in-one configuration allows you to explore different Tiger I variants without purchasing multiple kits.\n\nPerfect for display or competition, the finished model showcases the formidable engineering and design evolution of one of WWII's most legendary armoured vehicles.","brand":"Takom","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54194515706197,"sku":"2192","price":26.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1566796-109973-59-720.avif?v=1782017979"},{"product_id":"ibg-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-type-300-spitfire-prototype-k5054-first-flight-a720001","title":"IBG 1\/72 Supermarine Spitfire Type 300 Spitfire Prototype K5054 First Flight (A720001)","description":"The Supermarine Spitfire Type 300 prototype K5054 represents aviation history in miniature. This 1\/72 scale IBG kit captures the aircraft that first flew in March 1936, featuring the elliptical wing design and Rolls-Royce Merlin engine that would define a generation of fighters.\n\nDetailed plastic components with authentic panel lines and riveting bring the prototype's distinctive features to life. Includes decals for accurate markings and comprehensive assembly instructions. Ideal for experienced modellers seeking a historically significant subject with excellent detail potential.\n\nRequires plastic cement, paint, and basic modelling tools. Display stand not included.","brand":"IBG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54270708384085,"sku":"A720001","price":39.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/a720001_1.webp?v=1783001634"},{"product_id":"ibg-1-72-supermarine-type-300-spitfire-prototype-k5054-test-flights-a720002","title":"IBG 1\/72 Supermarine Spitfire Prototype K5054 Test Flights (A720002)","description":"The Supermarine Type 300 Spitfire Prototype K5054 represents a pivotal moment in aviation history. This 1\/72 scale model from IBG captures the legendary aircraft during its crucial test flight phase, before it became the iconic fighter that defined the Battle of Britain.\n\nFeaturing detailed cockpit elements, accurate panel lines, and authentic markings, this kit brings the prototype's experimental configuration to life. The K5054 designation marks this as the original test airframe—the very machine that proved the Spitfire concept and led to thousands of production variants.\n\nIdeal for aviation enthusiasts and scale modellers seeking historical accuracy, this kit offers engaging assembly with quality mouldings and comprehensive decal options. Display this piece of RAF heritage and celebrate the engineering innovation that shaped World War II air combat.","brand":"IBG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54270748328277,"sku":"A720002","price":39.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1755142-21643-66-720.webp?v=1783001889"},{"product_id":"hobby-2000-1-72-messerschmitt-me-163-b-s-komet-72061","title":"Hobby 2000 1\/72 Messerschmitt Me 163 B\/S Komet (72061)","description":"The Messerschmitt Me 163 B\/S Komet was one of the most radical aircraft designs of World War II. This rocket-powered interceptor featured a revolutionary short-span wing and tailless configuration, enabling it to achieve unprecedented speeds in defence of German airspace.\n\nThis 1\/72 scale kit from Hobby 2000 captures the distinctive profile of this historical fighter with detailed moulding and authentic markings. Suitable for intermediate modellers, the kit includes decals for multiple aircraft variants and schemes. Ideal for aviation enthusiasts and those building Luftwaffe collections.","brand":"Hobby 2000","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54510167687509,"sku":"72061","price":12.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1416273-13641-72-720.avif?v=1785568812"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-1-72-messerschmitt-me-262a-1a-wgr-21-70084","title":"Arma Hobby 1\/72 Messerschmitt Me-262A-1a\/WGr.21 (70084)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Me 262 A-1a\/WGr.21 was a bomber-destroyer variant fitted with underwing WGr.21 rocket mortars, intended to break up tight USAAF bomber formations before the fighters closed in with cannon. The rockets were fired from outside the effective range of the bombers' defensive guns. Arma Hobby's 1\/72 kit captures the distinctive underwing rocket tubes with authentic late-war Luftwaffe markings. A tactically specific and visually distinctive companion to the standard Me 262 A-1a kit.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54515112313173,"sku":"70084","price":22.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1766729-10105-27-720.avif?v=1785665182"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72-messerschmitt-me-262a-1a-2a-a03090a","title":"Airfix 1\/72 Messerschmitt Me 262A-1a\/2a (A03090A)","description":"The Airfix Messerschmitt Me 262A-1a\/2a is a detailed 1\/72 scale model kit of one of World War II's most iconic jet fighters. This twin-engine aircraft represents a significant leap in aviation technology and remains a favourite among scale modellers.\n\nThe kit includes finely moulded plastic components, decals for authentic markings, and comprehensive assembly instructions. Suitable for intermediate modellers, it offers the opportunity to recreate this legendary German fighter in either its single-seat fighter (A-1a) or two-seat night fighter (A-2a) configuration.\n\nPerfect for display or as part of a growing WWII aircraft collection, this classic Airfix kit delivers excellent value and historical authenticity.","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54704505192789,"sku":"A03090A","price":18.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/files\/1460247-17841-49-720.webp?v=1787231932"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/8287\/8805\/collections\/image_72ef2005-d1b9-49b1-a28c-1ffa7407e29c.png?v=1788582578","url":"https:\/\/monstermodelsandgames.co.uk\/collections\/experimental-what-if.oembed","provider":"Monster Models and Games","version":"1.0","type":"link"}