It's not quite as detailed as the version many thought Lego had leaked in a video a few months ago, but it turns out the SHIELD Helicarrier is very much a real set and is as awesome as anyone could have hoped for.
Pricing is US $349.99 – CA $399.99 – DE 349.99€ – UK £269.99 – DK 2999.00 DKK for The SHIELD Helicarrier (76042), piece count is 2,996 elements and comes with five Avengers minifigs and 12 all new super detailed microfigures when it's officially available March 1st. That gives you just a little over a month to clear a spot for this in your collection.
The official Lego press release is as follows:
76042 The SHIELD Helicarrier, 2,996 pieces.
US $349.99 – CA $399.99 – DE 349.99€ – UK £269.99 – DK 2999.00 DKK
Build and display the huge SHIELD Helicarrier!
Take on the challenge of building this awesome LEGO® model of The SHIELD Helicarrier. Construct the flying aircraft carrier with 2 runways, microscale Quinjets, fighter jets and ground support vehicles. The set also comes with many of your favorite LEGO Marvel Super Heroes minifigures, plus 12 microfigures to display on deck and within the highly detailed interior. Includes 5 minifigures: Nick Fury, Black Widow, Captain America, Hawkeye and Maria Hill.
- Includes 5 minifigures: Nick Fury, Black Widow, Captain America, Hawkeye and Maria Hill, plus an iconic SHIELD eagle stand to display them on
- Features 3 microscale Quinjets, 3 fighter jets, a gasoline truck, 2 forklift trucks, 2 runways, 4 road blockades, armored exterior with translucent elements, detailed interior, plus 12 microfigures (Nick Fury, Hawkeye, Captain America, Iron Man and 8 SHIELD agents)
- Also includes a detailed runway
- Weapons include Hawkeye's bow, Black Widow's gun and Captain America's shield
- SHIELD Agent Maria Hill minifigure is new for spring 2015!
- Includes a plaque with facts about The SHIELD Helicarrier
- Add lights and spinning rotors to the Helicarrier with the 88000, 8883 and 8870 LEGO® Power Functions sets (sold separately)
- Rotors can also be turned manually
- Includes a display stand
Lastly, here is a short video with the designer of the set explaining its build and functionality.