1/72 Republic XF-12 Rainbow

Anigrand Craftswork - 1/72 Republic XF-12 Rainbow. In 1943, Usaaf confronted with the problem of photographic information which collecting from the Pacific theatre while U.S. did not had close airfield in Pacific to be able to use photo-reconnaissance aircraft. So Usaaf issued a request for a new long-range / high altitude reconnaissance airplane. In March 1944, Republic proposed to modify its civil model, RC-2 to install with the photographic equipments. The proposal was accepted and Republic was received order for two prototypes, designated XF-12 Rainbow. The other design which entered the competition was the Hughes XF-11. To take over the temporarily duties, Usaaf converted some Boeing B-29A Superfortress with cameras to became F-13. With the end of the war, the designation XF-12 (F stand for Foto) was changed to XR-12 (R for Reconn.), construction of two prototypes were continued. The first XR-12 made its first flight in February 1947. It showed all the expected performances and became the fastest four piston-engined airplane at the time. The two XR-12s were conceived to demonstrate ultimate photo capabilities until 1948 when USAF cancelled the program as the Boeing RB-29A Superfortress and RB-50 were selected into the service.