Takom 1/32 Ho229B German Night Fighter Variant Kit

The Horten Ho 229B (or Horten H.XIX B) was a proposed night fighter variant of the Ho 229 flying wing jet fighter developed by the Horten brothers during World War II. This version was designed to extend the role of the original Ho 229A beyond that of a fighter-bomber to a specialized night fighter role, capable of intercepting enemy bombers in low-visibility conditions. Although it never advanced beyond the conceptual phase, here are the proposed characteristics and modifications of the Ho 229B:

1. Night Fighter Role:

• The primary role of the Ho 229B was to be a night interceptor, targeting Allied bombers that conducted nighttime raids over Germany. Night fighters typically had specialized radar and longer endurance for patrolling and engaging bombers in darkness.

2. Radar Installation:

• One of the key differences between the Ho 229A and the proposed Ho 229B was the inclusion of radar for detecting and engaging enemy aircraft at night. The Ho 229B was expected to carry a FuG 220 Lichtenstein SN-2 radar system, a standard German radar used on night fighters, with antennas mounted on the aircraft's nose.

3. Crew:

• Unlike the single-seat Ho 229A, the Ho 229B was designed to be a two-seat aircraft, with one crew member piloting the aircraft and the second operating the radar and managing targeting systems. This was typical for night fighters, where radar operation required a dedicated operator.

4. Armament:

• The Ho 229B was expected to be armed with heavier armament than the Ho 229A. Proposed armament included:
  • 4 x 30mm MK 108 cannons mounted in the nose, a common armament on Luftwaffe night fighters, capable of dealing heavy damage to Allied bombers.
  • Some proposals also suggested the potential for air-to-air rockets or advanced weaponry designed for bomber interception.