Germany was the only country to succeed in bringing a rocket powered combat aircraft, the ME 163 Komet, to operational status during World War II.  The first operational test groups equipped with the ME 163 Komet interceptor was formed in 1944.  Given the short duration of the rocket "burn" all Me 163 units were located immediately adjacent to Allied high value targets such as large synthetic fuel plants inside Germany.  The ME 163 Komet carried two 30 mm cannon and was powered by one Walter HWK 109-502A-2 bi-fuel liquid-rocket motor that developed a peak thrust of 3,750 pounds.  This rocket motor was capable of giving the ME 163 a top speed of 596 mph at 30,000 feet.  When Allied bombers were closing in on their high-value targets, the ME 163s were launched to intercept them.  The limited amount of rocket fuel usually meant that they only had one rocket powered pass at a given bomber.  Once the ME 163's fuel was spent, it glided back to their airfield and landed on a fuselage-mounted skid.  Unfortunately for the Germans, this remarkable rocket technology produced only limited success and therefore did not materially change the outcome of World War II.  This old, out-of-production Messerschmitt 163 b “Komet” 14 piece scaled model includes the following features: 1) Authentic markings for a Messerschmitt 163 b “Komet” as operated by the German Luftwaffe late in World War II; 2) Clear one-piece plastic canopy; 3) Model molded in gray colored plastic and 5) Two piece clear plastic display base.  Note: this model while missing the original instructions is molded in 1/96 scale, which makes it a somewhat unique kit.   The box is in very good condition.  Never started and 100% complete with all parts, decals and instructions inventoried.