The Junkers Ju 87G-1, famously nicknamed “Kanonenvogel” (Cannon Bird), was a specialized ground-attack variant of the iconic German Stuka dive-bomber used during World War II. Designed primarily for anti-tank operations, the Ju 87G-1 emerged in 1943 as a response to the increasing threat posed by Soviet armoured forces on the Eastern Front.
Unlike earlier dive-bomber models, the G-1 variant was equipped with two 37mm Bordkanone BK 3,7 cannons mounted in underwing pods, each capable of firing tungsten-cored armor-piercing rounds. These weapons proved highly effective against Soviet T-34 tanks, particularly when flown by skilled pilots like Hans-Ulrich Rudel, the most decorated German airman of the war and a key figure in the Ju 87G’s combat legacy.
The aircraft’s design retained the familiar gull-wing structure and fixed landing gear of the earlier Ju 87s, but modifications were made to accommodate the heavy cannons and their recoil. The added weight reduced the aircraft’s speed and manoeuvrability, making it more vulnerable to enemy fighters, especially without escort. Nevertheless, in the right hands and under the right conditions—typically low-altitude, surprise attacks—the Kanonenvogel became a fearsome tank killer.
Though obsolete by the later stages of the war, the Ju 87G-1 remains a striking example of how older airframes were adapted to meet evolving battlefield challenges.
Kit Review
The Italeri kit of the Junkers Ju 87G-1 Stuka is probably the best in 1/48 scale. It features finely molded parts that accurately depict the distinctive gull-wing design of the Stuka. this version includes the underwing-mounted 37mm Flak 18 cannons of the G-1 variant. The cockpit is very detailed and you can get a very nice result, thanks to the included photo-etched parts for the instrument panel and the seatbelts. Furthermore, the kit includes a detailed Jumo 211 engine with panels that can be removed to reveal it.
The included decal sheet (by Cartograph) provides decals for 4 versions.
Build process
The kit was built out-of-the-box. I only added metal gun barrels by Master Model because they look great and are more robust than the plastic kit parts. Additionally, masks by Eduard were used for the clear parts. Finally, there were some details added to the engine, using lead wire.
In order to recreate the iconic winter camouflage, at first I tried to use Flory Models Thick White Clay Wash. As per the instructions, I sprayed it with my airbrush using a wide nozzle (0.8mm) and high pressure. Sadly, the result was not up to par. Thankfully, the clay wash can be wiped very easily (especially if it is applied over a gloss finish). On my second try, I used the new white AK Real Colour Marker. It took 4 applications but in the end I believe it comes pretty close to the real plane.
Project Inventory
| Kit | Box | Scale | Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Italeri Ju 87 G-1 Stuka Kanonenvogel Model kit |  | 1/48 | 2830 |
| Master Model Flak 18 (37mm) German aircraft cannon barrels |  | 1/48 | AM-48-024 |
| Eduard Ju 87D for Italeri Mask |  | 1/48 | EX368 |
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