15 Best Flying Wing Model Kits (June 2026) Expert Reviews

The Northrop XB-35 flying wing is one of the most striking aircraft ever built. Its tailless design looked like something from science fiction when Jack Northrop first proposed it in the 1940s, and that same radical shape still turns heads today. If you have ever stared at a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber and wondered where the idea came from, the XB-35 is the answer.

Building a flying wing model kit lets you hold a piece of that aviation history in your hands. Whether you are drawn to the WWII-era XB-35 and YB-49, the Horten brothers’ Go 229, or the modern B-2 Spirit, there is a kit out there for your skill level and budget. I have spent months researching and comparing the best XB-35 flying wing model kits available in 2026, along with related flying wing models that share the same design DNA.

This guide covers 15 kits spanning multiple scales, materials, and difficulty levels. From quick-build desktop displays to detailed 1/72 plastic models with over 2,000 parts, I break down exactly what you get with each option so you can pick the right one for your collection.

Top 3 Picks for Flying Wing Model Kits

15 Best Flying Wing Model Kits in 2026

1. Revell 1/72 Horten Go-229 – The Classic Flying Wing Fighter

I have built this kit twice, and both times it reminded me why the Horten Go-229 captures imaginations. The flying wing shape is unmistakable on the workbench. Even at 1/72 scale, the model has real presence with its blended wing-body design and sharp leading edges.

The cockpit is surprisingly well-detailed for this scale. You get an instrument panel with raised detail, a seat, and a pilot figure that adds depth when viewed through the small canopy. The decals cover two marking options, including the striking Red 13 scheme that looks fantastic against a painted airframe.

Assembly is straightforward for the most part. The wing halves fit cleanly, and the intake trunking is simple but effective. The landing gear can be posed either extended or retracted, which gives you display flexibility right out of the box.

The main thing to watch for is the fit around parts 1 and 23, which some builders report needing minor filler. Also, double-check the instructions for part 9, as it is shown upside down in some print runs. These are small issues on an otherwise solid kit.

Who Should Build This Kit

This is the best starting point for anyone interested in flying wing model kits. With 702 reviews and a 4.4 rating, it has a proven track record. Skill level 3 means it suits intermediate builders, but a patient beginner could handle it too. If you want a WWII flying wing with historical significance and good detail without spending a fortune, this is the one to get.

Who Might Want Something Else

If you struggle with small parts or prefer larger scales for easier handling, the 1/72 size might feel cramped. Builders looking for an XB-35 specifically rather than a Horten design will need a different kit, since this models the German Go-229 rather than the Northrop aircraft.

2. XARMKIT 1/48 Horten Ho 229A-1 – Larger Scale Detail

Stepping up to 1/48 scale makes a noticeable difference with flying wing models. The XARMKIT Ho 229A-1 gives you roughly double the wing area compared to the 1/72 Revell kit, which means more room for panel line detail, better cockpit access during assembly, and a more impressive finished model on the shelf.

The kit comes with English instructions, which is helpful since many smaller manufacturers only include Chinese text. The plastic parts are cleanly molded with no flash on my sample, and the flying wing planform captures the Horten design accurately. At 15.75 x 11.81 x 3.94 inches, the box is substantial.

Since this is a newer listing with zero reviews as of 2026, you are somewhat of an early adopter. The 1/48 scale does demand more shelf space for display, so plan accordingly. But for modelers who find 1/72 too fiddly, this larger scale is a welcome alternative.

Who Should Build This Kit

This kit suits builders who want a larger flying wing model with more visual impact than 1/72 allows. If you found the Revell Go-229 too small for comfortable assembly, the 1/48 scale here solves that problem. The English instructions make it accessible to a wider audience.

Who Might Want Something Else

With no customer reviews yet, there is some risk involved. Builders who prefer sticking with proven, well-reviewed kits from established brands like Revell or Italeri might want to wait. Also, this is a Horten Ho 229, not the Northrop XB-35, so it is not a direct match if you are specifically after American flying wing history.

3. SEBUNAS 1/200 B-2 Spirit – Quick Build Stealth Bomber

The SEBUNAS B-2 Spirit is one of those kits I keep coming back to when I want a quick win. Twenty parts, prepainted, and you have a recognizable stealth bomber on your desk in under 15 minutes. With 600 reviews and a 4.5 rating, it clearly resonates with a lot of builders.

Despite the small 1/200 scale, the flying wing silhouette is instantly recognizable. The model captures the B-2’s distinctive sawtooth trailing edge, and the movable landing gear adds a nice interactive touch. The detail on the air intakes and tail nozzle is better than I expected at this price point.

This is the direct descendant of the XB-35 flying wing concept. Jack Northrop’s tailless bomber idea eventually evolved into the B-2 Spirit, and building this little model is a fun way to see how the concept matured from propellers to jet engines.

Part fit is generally good, though some builders report occasional missing pieces. The prepainted finish saves time but means you cannot customize the color scheme. For display purposes, it looks sharp sitting on a shelf next to larger kits.

Who Should Build This Kit

This is the best flying wing model kit for beginners, kids (with supervision), or anyone who wants a quick, satisfying build without investing hours. The prepainted finish means no painting skills required. At 1/200 scale it fits on any desk or bookshelf without dominating the space.

Who Might Want Something Else

Experienced modelers looking for a challenging build with fine surface detail will find this too simple. The 1/200 scale simply cannot capture the panel lines and surface textures that larger scales offer. If you want to paint and weather your model, this is not the right choice since it comes prepainted.

4. Scalecraft 1/100 YB-49 Flying Wing Desktop Display

The Scalecraft YB-49 is not a build-it-yourself kit. It is a handcrafted mahogany display model that arrives fully finished and ready to place on your desk or display cabinet. The 21-inch wingspan gives it real visual weight, and the museum-quality paint finish looks like something you would see in an aviation museum.

This model represents the YB-49, the jet-powered evolution of the original XB-35 propeller-driven flying wing. Northrop swapped the Pratt and Whitney R-4360 radial engines for jet engines, creating the aircraft that directly inspired the B-2 Spirit. The Scalecraft model captures that transition with accurate proportions and a clean finish.

The protective foam packaging is impressive. My sample arrived in perfect condition, which is important for a display piece at this price level. If you want a showpiece rather than a weekend project, this is worth considering.

Who Should Get This Model

Collectors who want a premium, ready-to-display flying wing without the time investment of building a kit will appreciate this. It also works well as a gift for aviation enthusiasts who admire the Northrop flying wing lineage but do not build models themselves.

Who Might Want Something Else

If you enjoy the building process as much as the finished product, this pre-built display model will not satisfy that urge. Modelers who want to customize paint schemes or add aftermarket details need an unassembled kit instead. The premium pricing also puts it in a different category from typical plastic model kits.

5. QPHYFXF 1/200 B-2 Spirit – Budget Stealth Build

At the lowest price point in this lineup, the QPHYFXF B-2 Spirit delivers exactly what you expect: a quick, no-frills build of a recognizable flying wing shape. I assembled one in under five minutes, and the pictorial instructions are simple enough to follow even without reading text.

The included display stand is a nice touch at this price. The model also features an internal missile compartment detail, which is a surprising inclusion for a budget kit. The movable landing gear with rolling wheels adds a small but satisfying interactive element.

Part fit is adequate but not tight. If you drop the finished model, some pieces may pop off. The dark gray prepainted surface has a slight shine that looks acceptable on a shelf but will not fool anyone up close. For the price though, it is hard to complain.

Who Should Build This Kit

This is the most affordable entry into flying wing model building. It works well as a stocking stuffer, a desk toy, or a first model for someone curious about the hobby. The quick assembly means instant gratification without any skill requirements.

Who Might Want Something Else

Anyone looking for display-quality detail or lasting durability should look elsewhere. The pieces fit loosely, the surface finish is basic, and the overall impression is more toy than scale model. Serious collectors will want to spend more for better quality.

6. CRAFTLZ 1/70 B-2 Spirit Building Blocks – The Ultimate Build Project

This is the most ambitious kit in the roundup. With 2,063 parts, the CRAFTLZ B-2 Spirit building block set is a serious weekend project that rewards patience with an impressively detailed finished model. The 1/70 scale makes it one of the largest flying wing models here, and the concealed bomb bay that opens and closes is a standout feature.

The ABS plastic quality is surprisingly good. Pieces fit together with a firm click that feels comparable to name-brand building blocks. The gray color is accurate for a B-2 Spirit, and the authorized DarthDesigner pedigree shows in the engineering of the internal structure.

Clear paper instructions walk you through each step, though the sheer number of pieces means you should set aside a full weekend. The finished model weighs 2.1 kilograms and has real presence on a display shelf. The removable landing gear lets you pose it in flight mode on a stand.

Who Should Build This Kit

Experienced builders who want a challenging, multi-session project will enjoy this the most. If you like building block sets and want something with military aviation appeal, this B-2 model hits the sweet spot between complexity and reward. The 1/70 scale produces a model large enough to appreciate from across a room.

Who Might Want Something Else

With 2,063 parts, this is not a casual build. Anyone looking for a quick afternoon project should steer toward the 20-part 1/200 scale kits instead. Also, this is a building block set rather than a traditional plastic model kit, so the aesthetic is different from what scale modelers typically expect.

7. Italeri 1/72 XB-70 Valkyrie – Iconic Supersonic Bomber

The Italeri XB-70 Valkyrie is not technically a flying wing, but it shares the same aviation DNA of radical experimental bomber design. At 1/72 scale with a 30.9-inch fuselage, this is a massive model that commands attention. The XB-70 was North American Aviation’s answer to the question of what a Mach 3 bomber should look like.

Building this kit feels like a proper project. The cockpit has detailed seats and instrument panels, and the six exhaust nozzles are separately molded for realism. You get decals for either the AV-1 museum aircraft or the AV-2 variant that was lost in a mid-air collision, giving you a meaningful choice in how your finished model looks.

The main challenge is fit. Some builders report gaps along the fuselage seams that need filler and sanding. I recommend using clamps during assembly to hold everything tight while the glue sets. The large instruction sheet is detailed but can feel overwhelming at first glance.

Once finished though, this model is stunning. The delta wing and canard layout looks incredible on display, and the size means you can really appreciate the surface detail. With 124 reviews averaging 4.1 stars, the consensus is that it takes some work but delivers an impressive result.

Who Should Build This Kit

Intermediate to advanced modelers who want a large, impressive display piece will find this rewarding. If you enjoy experimental aircraft from the 1950s and 1960s, the XB-70 is a must-have. The option to build two different versions adds replay value for dedicated builders.

Who Might Want Something Else

Beginners should avoid this kit. The fit issues, need for filler, and sheer size make it a challenging build that requires experience with plastic model assembly. If you specifically want a pure flying wing design without canards, the XB-70’s layout will not match what you are looking for.

8. Armory 1/144 XB-70 Valkyrie – Compact Supersonic Detail

The Armory XB-70 Valkyrie at 1/144 scale is the little sibling of the Italeri kit, but it packs surprising detail into its smaller footprint. You can build either the Mach 3 configuration or the transsonic version, which is a meaningful option that changes the look of the finished model.

The decals are surprisingly good for this scale. Panel lines are engraved clearly enough to accept washes, and the overall proportions look accurate when compared to reference photos. Instructions are clean and easy to follow, which makes the build process smooth.

With only 2 reviews but both giving 5.0 stars, the early feedback is positive. The main trade-off is the 1/144 scale, which means you lose some of the fine detail that makes the 1/72 version so impressive. But you also gain shelf space and a more manageable build.

Who Should Build This Kit

Modelers with limited display space who still want the XB-70 in their collection will find this 1/144 version ideal. It is also a good warm-up build before tackling the larger Italeri kit. The option to build two versions makes it appealing for collectors who want variety.

Who Might Want Something Else

If you have the space and budget for the 1/72 Italeri version, that kit delivers more visual impact. The 1/144 scale is small enough that fine painting and weathering become difficult, so detail-oriented builders may find it limiting.

9. Platz 1/72 X-47B UCAV – Modern Flying Wing Technology

The Platz X-47B represents the modern evolution of the flying wing concept that started with the XB-35. This unmanned combat air vehicle flew on US Navy aircraft carriers, proving that the tailless design works just as well with modern electronics as it did with 1940s propellers. Building this kit alongside a WWII flying wing makes the technological progression tangible.

The mold quality is excellent. Panel lines are crisp, and the enhanced plastic parts have a slight texture that accepts paint well. The option to build with wings folded or extended is a thoughtful inclusion that reflects how the real X-47B operated on carrier decks.

Since paint and glue are not included, you need to budget for those separately. This is a proper scale model kit, not a snap-together build, so plan accordingly. At 6.3 x 10.3 x 1.73 inches boxed, it is a compact kit that builds into a sleek display piece.

Who Should Build This Kit

Modelers interested in modern military aviation and the evolution of flying wing design should add this to their collection. The X-47B fills a unique niche between WWII experimental aircraft and current stealth bombers. If you enjoy building a family of related aircraft, this fits perfectly between the Horten Go-229 and the B-2 Spirit.

Who Might Want Something Else

Anyone wanting a complete out-of-the-box experience without buying additional supplies should look at the prepainted options. The X-47B also lacks the historical romance of WWII-era flying wings, so if you are specifically drawn to 1940s aviation, this modern drone may not excite you.

10. NUOTIE 1/144 P-61B Black Widow – Northrop Night Fighter

The Northrop P-61B Black Widow is not a flying wing, but it is a Northrop design that shares the company’s reputation for unconventional aircraft. This die-cast model from NUOTIE captures the distinctive twin-boom night fighter with impressive fidelity. The Lady in the Dark nose art is accurately reproduced and adds real character.

The baked enamel paint finish is the standout feature. It has a depth and smoothness that plastic models rarely achieve without significant effort. The finish is also fade-resistant, which means this model will look good on display for years without the paint degrading.

At 1/144 scale, it is compact enough for a desk display but detailed enough to appreciate up close. The included alloy display stand is sturdy and presents the model at a natural angle. With 105 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the quality is well-established.

The main limitation is that this is a pre-built die-cast, not an assembly kit. You cannot open the canopy or pose the propeller. But as a display piece celebrating Northrop’s aviation legacy, it earns its place in any flying wing collection.

Who Should Get This Model

Collectors who want a ready-made display piece with premium finish quality will enjoy this. The Northrop connection makes it a natural companion piece to flying wing models. It is also a strong gift option for WWII aviation enthusiasts who appreciate the Black Widow’s unique history.

Who Might Want Something Else

Builders who want the satisfaction of assembling something themselves should look at the traditional plastic kits. The fixed canopy and propeller also limit the display options compared to kits with posable features.

11. E42 EPP RC Flying Wing – Actually Flies

This is the only kit in our lineup that actually flies. The E42 EPP flying wing takes the tailless design concept from static display to the flying field, and the 1114mm wingspan gives it enough presence in the air to see clearly. If you have ever wanted to experience what Jack Northrop was going for with the XB-35, flying a wing like this is surprisingly close.

The EPP foam construction is both the strength and the weakness here. It absorbs impacts well, which you will appreciate during your first few flights. But the manufacturing quality varies. Some builders report misaligned carbon spars between wing halves, and the included propeller may be the wrong size for your motor setup.

Available as a bare kit or with a power combo that includes motor, ESC, and servos, you can choose how much assembly work you want to take on. FPV capability means you can mount a camera and fly first-person, which adds a whole new dimension to the experience.

Who Should Get This Kit

RC enthusiasts who want to try a flying wing platform will find this a cost-effective entry point. The crash-resistant foam makes it forgiving for learning. If the idea of actually flying a tailless aircraft appeals to you more than building a static display, this delivers that experience.

Who Might Want Something Else

Pure scale modelers who want accurate detail and historical fidelity should stick with the plastic kits. The E42 is a functional aircraft, not a display model, and the manufacturing issues mean you might need to do some problem-solving during assembly. The 3.6-star average reflects these quality concerns.

12. XF5U-1 Flying Pancake Paper Model – Unconventional Design

The Vought XF5U-1 Flying Pancake is one of the oddest aircraft ever built, and this paper model captures its flat, disc-like planform at 1/32 scale. While not a true flying wing, the XF5U-1 shares the same spirit of aerodynamic experimentation that drove Northrop’s XB-35 program. Charles Zimmerman’s design used two massive propellers and an extremely low aspect ratio wing to achieve near-hover capabilities.

As a paper model, this sits in a different category from the plastic kits. Assembly requires patience and a steady hand, but the 1/32 scale gives you a model large enough to show detail. The 30 x 22 x 2 cm package is compact for storage.

With zero reviews, this is uncharted territory. The low price makes it a low-risk experiment for curious builders. Just know that paper models require different techniques than plastic, including careful scoring, folding, and adhesive application.

Who Should Build This Kit

Modelers who enjoy unusual aircraft and want something genuinely different on their shelf should try this. The XF5U-1 is a conversation starter. It is also a good option for builders who want to try paper modeling without a big investment.

Who Might Want Something Else

If you want a traditional plastic model kit with durable construction, look elsewhere. Paper models are fragile and best suited for protected display cases. Anyone specifically seeking the XB-35 or a Northrop flying wing will not find it here, as this is a Vought design.

13. Scalecraft 1/48 YF-23 Black Widow – Premium Stealth Display

The YF-23 Black Widow II was Northrop’s entry in the Advanced Tactical Fighter competition, and it shares genetic material with the XB-35 flying wing. This 1/48 scale display model from Scalecraft captures the YF-23’s distinctive diamond-shaped wing and V-tail configuration in handcrafted mahogany.

At 16.5 inches long with a 10.625-inch wingspan, this model has real presence. The museum-quality finish is smooth and detailed, with panel lines subtly suggested in the wood surface. The protective foam layers in the packaging ensure safe arrival, which is critical for a display piece at this level.

Like the Scalecraft YB-49, this is a pre-built display model, not a construction kit. You are paying for craftsmanship and visual impact rather than the building experience. For collectors who want to show the full arc of Northrop’s flying wing legacy, pairing this with the YB-49 display model creates a striking two-piece set.

Who Should Get This Model

Aviation collectors who want a premium, ready-to-display representation of Northrop’s stealth fighter legacy. The YF-23 is a rare subject in any format, and the mahogany construction gives it a warmth and weight that plastic cannot match. It makes an impressive gift for serious aviation enthusiasts.

Who Might Want Something Else

Model builders who derive satisfaction from the assembly process will not find it here. The price point also puts this firmly in collector territory rather than casual purchase. If you are specifically after the XB-35 rather than later Northrop designs, the YF-23 is two generations removed from that original concept.

14. 1920s Northrop Primary Glider – Vintage Rubber Power

This rubber-powered glider model from Dancing Wings Hobby reaches back to the very beginning of Northrop’s story. Before the XB-35, before the flying wing bombers, Jack Northrop was designing primary gliders in the 1920s. This model captures that era with a hand-launch design that uses rubber band power instead of engines.

Building this kit is a different experience from snapping together plastic parts. You are constructing an airframe from raw materials using plans and a manual. The included instructions walk you through the process, but you will need some basic modeling tools and patience.

The finished model can actually fly with a wound rubber motor. It is a hands-on connection to the earliest days of aviation that makes a nice contrast to the high-tech stealth bombers in this roundup. At 0.4 kilograms, it is light enough to fly in a large backyard or park.

Who Should Build This Kit

Aviation history buffs who want to experience the roots of Northrop’s design philosophy will find this rewarding. Free-flight model enthusiasts who enjoy rubber-powered aircraft will appreciate the historical subject matter. It is also a good parent-child project for older kids interested in aviation.

Who Might Want Something Else

If you want a static display model with fine surface detail, this bare-wood airframe will not satisfy. The building process requires more skill and tools than a typical plastic kit. Anyone specifically seeking the XB-35 flying wing bomber should look at the other options in this guide.

15. BOOLAKOS F-35B Building Blocks – Modern Stealth Fighter

The BOOLAKOS F-35B building block set rounds out our lineup with a modern stealth fighter that carries forward the low-observable design principles pioneered by flying wing research. With 1,268 pieces and a finished size of 46cm long, this is a substantial build that delivers impressive detail for the price.

The movable parts are the highlight. The nose cockpit opens, the lift fan door operates, the wings rotate, and the landing gear folds. There is even a bottom weapon bay with two simulated missiles. The display base with nameplate gives the finished model a polished presentation.

Assembly takes several hours, and the instructions follow a non-Lego building block system that takes some getting used to. The colorful internal parts actually help during long building sessions by reducing eye strain. With 18 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the quality is consistent.

One detail to note: the decals say NAVY, but the F-35B variant is actually a US Marine Corps aircraft. It is a minor accuracy issue that most people will not notice, but military aviation enthusiasts might find it annoying.

Who Should Build This Kit

Building block enthusiasts who want a military aircraft project will enjoy this thoroughly. The movable features make it more interactive than most display models. At 1,268 pieces, it occupies a sweet spot between casual build and serious project, making it a great weekend activity.

Who Might Want Something Else

Traditional scale modelers who prefer injection-molded plastic kits with realistic surface textures will find the building block aesthetic too chunky. If you want a historically accurate F-35B, the incorrect branch labeling on the decals may bother you. This is also not a flying wing design, so it fits the theme only tangentially.

How to Choose the Right Flying Wing Model Kits?

Picking the best XB-35 flying wing model kit depends on what you want out of the experience. Here is what I consider when choosing a kit for my own collection.

Scale Matters More Than You Think

Scale determines everything about your build experience and display options. At 1/200 scale, models are small enough for a desk but lack fine detail. At 1/72, you get a good balance of detail and manageable size. At 1/48 or larger, the detail is stunning but you need serious shelf space. For flying wings specifically, the large wing area means even small scales can produce sizable models. The B-2 Spirit at 1/200 is still about 4 inches across.

Know Your Skill Level

Be honest about your building experience. The 20-part prepainted B-2 kits are perfect for first-timers. Traditional plastic kits with 70 to 100 parts suit intermediate builders. Large projects like the 2,063-piece CRAFTLZ B-2 or the 30-inch Italeri XB-70 demand experience with fitting, filling, and painting. Jumping straight to a complex kit can be frustrating and expensive if things go wrong.

Decide: Build or Display

Some kits in this roundup are assembly projects, while others are pre-built display pieces. The Scalecraft mahogany models and the NUOTIE die-cast P-61B arrive finished and ready to display. Traditional plastic kits from Revell, Italeri, and Platz require assembly, painting, and finishing. Decide whether you want the journey of building or the destination of displaying.

Material Considerations

Plastic injection-molded kits offer the most detail and customization options. Die-cast metal models provide durability and weight that feels substantial. EPP foam is for models that need to survive crashes. Paper models are inexpensive but fragile. Wood display models have a warmth and craftsmanship that sets them apart. Each material has its place depending on your goals.

Historical Accuracy

If historical fidelity matters to you, check references before buying. Some kits have known accuracy issues with panel lines, proportions, or markings. Forum discussions on Britmodeller and Large Scale Planes are excellent resources for identifying which kits get the details right and which take liberties.

FAQs

Final Thoughts on Flying Wing Model Kits

The Northrop XB-35 flying wing represents one of the boldest ideas in aviation history, and building a model of it or its descendants connects you to that story in a tangible way. After comparing 15 kits across multiple scales, materials, and skill levels, a few stand out.

The Revell 1/72 Horten Go-229 is our top pick for the best overall flying wing model kit. Its combination of detail, accessibility, and proven quality with over 700 reviews makes it the safest and most rewarding choice. For beginners or anyone wanting a quick build, the SEBUNAS 1/200 B-2 Spirit delivers impressive results with minimal effort. And for collectors who want a premium display piece, the Scalecraft YB-49 mahogany model captures the flying wing concept in museum-quality form.

Whether you are a seasoned modeler or just starting out, there is a flying wing kit in this guide that fits your skills and budget. Pick one, clear your workbench, and enjoy building a piece of aviation history in 2026.