The Messerchmitt Me263 was a development of the Me163B designed to give the rocket powered interceptor greater endurance and better performance. Only one prototype flew before the end of World War II.

In early 1944 Messerchmitt began development of an improved Me163, initially known as the Me163C and later the Me163D.

In its later form the main refinements were much greater fuel capacity to extend the interceptors’ range, retractable undercarriage to make the aeroplane much safer to take off and land, a pressurised cockpit and an all-round vision canopy.

The project was transferred to Junkers for a short period (where it was designated the Ju248) but returned to Messerchmitt in late 1944 when it was became the Me263.

Initial test flights were unpowered and some powered test flights were later made. However the end of the war meant that this aeroplane never entered production.

This model represents the prototype circa 1945

Huma 1:72 kit. Completed in August 1989.