Corgi McDonnell Douglas Phantom II FG.1 XV582 'Black Mike' (1:48)

McDonnell Douglas Phantom II FG.1 XV582 'Black Mike' No.111 Squadron RAF Leuchars ‘Black Arrows’ Aerobatic Display Team (1:48) When it comes to RAF aircraft which have benefitted from the application of special commemorative schemes, there’s one machine which still enjoys legendary status amongst Britain’s army of aviation enthusiasts, Phantom FG.1 ‘Black Mike’.  An aircraft which had recently transferred to the care of RAF No.111 Squadron at Leuchars, XV582 was selected to receive this unique scheme as the squadron wanted to mark both the RAF service of the Phantom, and the heritage of their famous unit, heritage which included the ‘Black Arrows’ Aerobatic Display Team.  Between 1955 and 1960, this team flew aerobatic demonstrations in their gloss black painted Hawker Hunter jets at Airshows all over Britain, including the Farnborough show in 1958, where the team captured a world record by looping 22 Hunters in formation.  In commemoration of this, XV582 was given this smart all-over gloss black scheme, initially for just a static ‘At Home’ Airshow appearance at Leuchars in 1989, but proved so popular that she exhausted her remaining airframe hours the following year as Treble One squadron’s display aircraft.  Known as ‘Black Mike’ because of her colour and her squadron letter, XV582 became the aircraft every RAF pilot wanted to fly, but with her Airshow commitments and low remaining flying hours, only a fortunate few managed to do so.  Making her final flight on 22nd September 1990, ‘Black Mike’ was retired to become a static star of many a Leuchars Airshow, but always retaining her iconic status with aviation enthusiasts.

Corgi P-38J Lightning "Virginia Marie" 475th FG (1:72)

P-38J Lightning "Virginia Marie" 475th FG 'Satan's Angels', New Guinea (1:72) This exceptional CORGI Aviation Archive 1:72 scale diecast model brings to life the flamboyantly marked Lockheed P-38J Lightning "Virginia Marie", a prized collectible for aviation enthusiasts and military history aficionados.  Ready to display straight from the box, this meticulously crafted model captures the distinctive markings of one of the 475th Fighter Group's most striking aircraft, a deadly twin-engine fighter that earned Japanese respect as part of the 'Bloody Butchers of Rabaul'.  Premium diecast construction and authentic paint scheme reproduction make this a standout addition to any collection.   Key Features: Ready to display - no assembly required Authentic 1:72 scale diecast construction Features the distinctive progressive paint scheme of "Virginia Marie" Rotatable propellers for realistic presentation Includes display stand for immediate showcase History: The Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighters flown by the USAAF 5th Air Force's 475th Fighter Group 'Satan's Angels' were among the most visually striking aircraft of the Pacific Theatre, but their bold appearance masked a lethal combat effectiveness.  With twin engines providing added security and concentrated nose-mounted firepower, the Lightning became a formidable adversary that Japanese pilots learnt to fear and respect. The 475th Fighter Group's success earned them the ominous nickname 'Bloody Butchers of Rabaul' from their adversaries. "Virginia Marie" was delivered to the 433rd Fighter Squadron at Hollandia Airfield in early 1944, where she received her remarkable markings in an unconventional manner.  According to pilot Carroll R. Anderson, the aircraft's striking scheme evolved progressively over several weeks, making liberal use of the squadron's medium blue identification colour. The final artistic touches were completed during the Group Commander's absence from base, allowing the dedicated ground crew to fully express their talents.  Notably, "Virginia Marie" became the only Lightning in the 433rd Fighter Squadron to receive its complete intended paint scheme, making this aircraft a unique and celebrated example of wartime nose art and unit pride.  

Corgi Messerschmitt Me 262A-2a, ‘Blitz Bomber’ 1./KG51 1944 (1:72)

This 1:72 scale CORGI Aviation Archive diecast model represents one of the most advanced combat aircraft of the Second World War, the Messerschmitt Me 262A-2a 'Blitz Bomber', making it an exceptional addition for any serious aviation collector.  Despite being championed by Hitler as a high-speed bomber to attack strategic Allied positions, this revolutionary jet proved far more effective as a fighter than in its designated bombing role.  This premium diecast model captures the distinctive profile of this groundbreaking aircraft in authentic detail, ready to display straight from the box.   Key Features: Ready to display - no assembly required Authentic 1:72 scale diecast construction Historically accurate 'Blitz Bomber' markings from 1944 Premium metal construction with painted finish Includes display stand History: The Messerschmitt Me 262 was unquestionably the most advanced combat aircraft of the Second World War, representing a quantum leap in aviation technology as the world's first operational jet-powered fighter.  However, Hitler's insistence on deploying these revolutionary aircraft as 'Blitz Bombers' diverted them from their true strength - intercepting Allied bomber formations that were devastating German cities daily. Following the Allied capture of vital bridges over the River Waal in the Netherlands during September 1944, the Germans made desperate attempts to destroy the Waal Bridge at Nijmegen using every weapon at their disposal.  Recognising the strategic importance of these crossings, Hitler ordered the bridges destroyed at all costs and allocated his prized Me 262 'Blitz Bombers' to the mission, believing their incredible speed would guarantee success. Unfortunately for the Luftwaffe pilots, the Allies anticipated the assault and established a formidable anti-aircraft 'ring of steel' around the bridges. This defensive network proved devastatingly effective, shooting down almost every aircraft sent against the target.  This particular 'Blitz Bomber' participated in the autumn 1944 attacks on the Waal bridge but failed to deliver a decisive strike, hampered by both intense defensive fire and the Me 262's general unsuitability as an accurate strike bomber.  The aircraft's incredible speed, whilst an asset in fighter operations, made precision bombing extremely difficult, highlighting the folly of misusing this extraordinary machine.  

Corgi Me 410A-1/U3, Hpt. Eduard Tratt, II./ZG26 1943 (1:72)

Me 410A-1/U3, Hauptmann Eduard Tratt, II./ZG26 1943 (1:72) Product Info: This impressive CORGI Aviation Archive 1:72 scale diecast model brings the formidable Messerschmitt Me 410A-1/U3 Hornisse to life for passionate collectors and aviation enthusiasts.  Ready to display straight from the box, this meticulously crafted model captures the powerful twin-engine heavy fighter in authentic markings commemorating Hauptmann Eduard Tratt, the most successful Zerstörer Ace of the Second World War.  Finished in accurate grey livery with rotating propellers, this detailed replica represents one of the Luftwaffe's most heavily armed interceptors from 1943. Key Features: Ready to display straight from the box - no assembly required Authentic 1:72 scale diecast construction Rotating propellers for added realism Accurate grey paint scheme and period markings Includes display stand History: Despite a troubled development that delayed its entry into service, the Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse emerged as an exceptional combat aircraft, combining considerable power with impressive operational range and devastating firepower.  The Hornisse could mount an extraordinary array of weaponry, its configurable under-nose weapons bay supplemented by external armaments made it particularly lethal against the massive Allied bomber streams that penetrated deep into German

Corgi Hurricane IIC, Z3897 /JX-N, Bill McConnell 1 Sqn 1941(1:72)

Hurricane IIC, Z3897 /JX-N, Bill McConnell 1 Squadron 1941(1:72)   This exceptional CORGI Aviation Archive 1:72 scale diecast model showcases the legendary Hawker Hurricane Mk.IIC, the perfect addition for any dedicated aviation collector.  Ready to display straight from the box, this premium die-cast replica captures the historic Z3897/JX-N in authentic detail, complete with its distinctive nose artwork and accurate green/grey camouflage scheme.  Featuring a rotatable propeller and included display stand, this model celebrates one of the RAF's most versatile fighter aircraft of the Second World War.   Key Features: Ready to display - no assembly required Premium 1:72 scale diecast construction Rotatable propeller for authentic detail Historically accurate markings and paint scheme Includes display stand History: The Hawker Hurricane earned its legendary status during the Battle of Britain, destroying more enemy aircraft than all of Britain's other defences combined. By the summer of 1940, even as Hurricanes fought to stem the Luftwaffe tide, engineers were developing a major upgrade. The Hurricane Mk.II arrived with an uprated Merlin engine, but its thick, straight wing design meant it would find its true calling beyond traditional dogfighting roles. The Hurricane IIc variant, armed with four devastating 20mm Hispano cannons, proved highly effective in coastal anti-shipping raids and low-altitude 'Rhubarb' strikes into occupied Europe. Its powerful armament excelled against ground targets, whilst the aircraft also found success as a nightfighter and 'Hurribomber' in North Africa's desert campaigns. This particular aircraft, Z3897, gained fame through a Pathé newsreel featuring mock combat against a captured Junkers Ju88, showcasing the Hurricane's impressive manoeuvrability. The aircraft was the personal mount of Belfast-born William W. McConnell, who served with RAF No.1 Squadron from May 1941 through March 1942, becoming a noted ground attack specialist.  His Hurricane wore distinctive nose artwork that made it instantly recognisable, a testament to the personal connection between pilot and machine during those crucial wartime years.  

Corgi A6M2-21 Zero 381st Kokutai, Yef Man Island, West Papua (1:72)

This meticulously crafted CORGI Aviation Archive 1:72 scale diecast model brings the legendary Mitsubishi A6M2-21 Zero to life for passionate aviation collectors.    Ready to display straight from the box, this premium replica captures the distinctive green and grey camouflage scheme of this iconic Japanese fighter as it appeared during operations at Jeffman Island in 1944.    Every detail reflects CORGI's commitment to historical accuracy and exceptional craftsmanship, from the authentic paint scheme to the precision-engineered construction.   Key Features: Ready to display - no assembly required Premium diecast metal construction with painted finish Historically accurate green and grey camouflage scheme Rotating propeller for enhanced display options Includes display stand for immediate presentation History: During the early stages of the Second World War, the Mitsubishi Zero stood as one of the most formidable fighter aircraft in the skies, a worthy contemporary of the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and Supermarine Spitfire.    Engineered specifically for the vast expanses of the Pacific Theatre, the Zero combined heavy armament with exceptional manoeuvrability, achieving an impressive 12:1 success ratio in early combat operations against Chinese aircraft. However, unlike its European counterparts which proved highly adaptable to successive upgrades, the Zero's design would eventually be surpassed by more advanced Allied fighters.    The Japanese Navy's nomenclature system designated this aircraft as the A6M, identifying it as the 6th carrier fighter type to enter service, with the M denoting Mitsubishi as manufacturer. The Type 21 variant introduced a crucial innovation: folding wing tips that enabled more efficient operations from Japanese navy carriers. Approximately 3,700 of these aircraft were produced, with manufacturing split between Mitsubishi and Nakajima.    Formed on 1st October 1943, the 381st Kokutai operated as a fighter-bomber unit supporting Japanese ground forces engaged in brutal combat against American and Australian troops.    By May 1944, the unit found itself fighting a desperate attritional battle against superior Allied air forces in West Papua, with reinforcements a distant hope and the outcome grimly inevitable.

Oxford Diecast Grumann Avenger White 83 USS Petrof Bay 1945 (1:72)

Grumann Avenger White 83 USS Petrof Bay 1945 The Grumman Avenger was the British version of the American TBF-1 Avenger and the RAF used these under a lend-lease agreement.  However, our latest release is an Avenger that served with the US forces towards the end of WWII in combat with the Japanese in the Pacific. It was classed as a naval aircraft torpedo bomber and our 1:72 scale Grumman is a replica of the bomber flying with 76 Squadron from the aircraft carrier USS Petrof Bay. It comprised a single engine monoplane with capacity for up to a four-man crew. The livery on this model is quite striking with its midnight blue and dark sea grey two-tone upper side and white underbody.  Graphics are in white, including a four leaf clover on the tail fin. The nose art features a provocative and colourful ‘Blopsy’. The Grumman’s offensive armament comprised two forward facing Browning machine guns and a further rear-facing defensive Browning machine gun in the turret.  These are faithfully reproduced on our model painted black.  Finite details also include the black propellers with their yellow tips, the rust finished exhaust pipes and the silver propeller hub/spinner. - 1:72 Scale

Corgi Sopwith Camel F.1 - B7190/C - ‘Donner Wetter!’ (1:48)

Sopwith Camel F.1 - B7190/C - ‘Donner Wetter!’ This 1:48 scale die-cast model release of the World War One Sopwith Camel plane replicates the beautiful livery of an early aviation ace. This Aviation Archive model features a rotating propeller and display stand. We’ve only made 900 of these limited-edition Walter Hinchcliff Sopwith Camel F.1 die-cast models. History Liverpudlian Walter ‘Hinch’ Hinchliffe began his military career with a British Army artillery unit, but in 1916, joined the Royal Naval Air Service. After training, he was posted to Cranwell as an instructor, where he clocked up an impressive 1,250 flight hours in 13 months of flying. In January 1918, he joined No.10 Squadron. RNAS at Téteghem near Dunkirk, and scored his first victory in a Sopwith Camel on 3rd February 1918. As the commander of ‘C’ Flight, Hinchliffe’s Sopwith Camel B7190 was one of the most distinctively presented aircraft of the squadron, with its blue and white detailing making it an attractive sight for Allied and Luftstreitkräfte pilots alike. He used this aircraft to score his second and third victories in France, ending the war with six confirmed victories, confirming him as an ace pilot. The spine of his aircraft carried a representation of the Liverpool coat of arms, and the wheel covers had little devils painted on them. The wording ‘Donner Wetter’ painted on either side of the fuselage is German for ‘thunderstorm’ – fitting for a pilot who enjoyed such a meteoric rise through service. After the war, ‘Hinch’ was persuaded to fly a wealthy heiress across the Atlantic, as she wanted to become the first woman to do so. Tragically, both aircraft and passengers were lost without trace during the attempt. - 1:48 scale

Corgi P-47D Thunderbolt - 42-8500/HO-P - ‘Cripes A’ MIGHTY’ (1:72)

Republic P-47D Thunderbolt - 42-8500/HO-P - ‘Cripes A’ MIGHTY’ This impressive Aviation Archive 1:72 scale model of the P-47D Thunderbolt is presented in a high-back configuration, and features a rotating propeller, optional undercarriage, and a display stand. The livery represents an aircraft flown by a legendary future American ace. We’ve only made 1,100 of these limited-edition Republic P-47D Thunderbolt die-cast models. History Although remembered as the top-scoring Mustang ace in the European Theatre of Operations (ETO), George E. Preddy Jr. actually made his ETO combat debut flying the P-47 Thunderbolt. Whilst he did score his first three victories flying this massive fighter, things weren’t always without incident. After downing his third Luftwaffe fighter, Preddy and his wingman, Lt. William Whisner, were heading back to Bodney when Preddy’s Thunderbolt was hit by flak crossing the French coast. Whisner later reported seeing smoke billowing from the cockpit of Preddy’s fighter, and his leader taking to his parachute. Despite being low on fuel, Whisner remained circling above his leader until controllers confirmed a position fix, and that a rescue aircraft was on the way. When the Walrus did arrive, the sea was so rough that it ripped a float off the aircraft during landing. Although it was able to rescue Preddy, it had to be towed back to shore by an RAF rescue launch. All of George Preddy’s fighters in the ETO were named ‘Cripes A’ MIGHTY’, a term he heard people using for luck whilst playing the dice game craps. It appealed to him so much that he painted it on the fuselage of his Thunderbolt and all his future Mustangs. The 352nd began converting from P-47s to P-51B Mustangs in March 1944, and the rest is the stuff of USAAF ace pilot history. - 1:72 scale

Aviation 72 Folland Gnat Single Seat RAF Cosford Museum XK724 (1:72)

Folland Gnat Single Seat RAF Cosford Museum XK724 Following in the contrails of Aviation 72's successful two-seat T.1 trainer variant that has spawned many versions in 1/72 scale, the Gnat's casting was modified to replicate the original solo cockpit 'light fighter' F.1 that first flew in 1955. The British Folland Gnat was developed as a compact swept-wing subsonic fighter aircraft that was produced by Folland Aircraft. Envisioned as an affordable light fighter in contrast to the rising costs and size of typical combat aircraft, it was procured as a trainer aircraft for the Royal Air Force as well as by overseas customers in Finland, Yugoslavia and India, who used the Gnat in both combat and training capacities. Although never used as a fighter by the RAF, the 2-seat Gnat T.1 jet trainer variant was also adopted and operated for some time. The Gnat also became well known due to its prominent use as the original display type used by the Red Arrows aerobatic team. The Gnat was replaced by the Hawker Siddeley Hawk. This RAF version (a limited edition of 360) is rightly missing the underwing extras modelled on later releases of this casting as it depicts the aircraft as it is today, on display at The RAF Cosford Museum. The single-seater Gnat really looks the part with the smaller cockpit and is wonderfully finished in the correct livery. The paintwork on both features a suitable level of sheen and the markings are all beautifully applied, plus there is plenty of excellent detailing to enjoy. Undercarriage is fixed in the deployed position and the model comes complete with a display stand to use, if desired. - 1:72 Scale

Aviation 72 Fairey Swordfish 'The Navy Wings Heritage Flight' (1:72)

Fairey Swordfish 'The Navy Wings Heritage Flight' W5856/4A The Swordfish is a biplane torpedo bomber, designed by the Fairey Aviation Company and principally operated by the Fleet Air Arm of the Royal Navy. The design first flew in 1934 and was retired from frontline duties towards the end of World War II. W5856 is the oldest surviving airworthy Fairey Swordfish in the world and is now part of the Navy Wings historic naval aircraft collection. W5856 first flew in 1941 and served with the Royal Navys Mediterranean Fleet for a year, then returned to Fairey's Stockport factory for refurbishment over the winter of 1942/43. Transferred to the Royal Canadian Navy in 1944 and used in a training role, this aircraft was then stored in reserve after the end of the war. Sold off and passing into civilian ownership, W5856 was eventually purchased by Sir William Roberts and brought to Scotland to join his Strathallan Collection. In 1990, the aircraft was bought by British Aerospace and completely restored to flying condition. Following a successful test flight at Brough in May 1993, she was gifted to the Royal Navy Historic Flight. Three years later, the aircraft was adopted by the City of Leeds, in tribute to the local companies that built Swordfish components during World War II, and W5856 now wears the citys coat of arms and name on her port side just forward of the pilot's cockpit. W5856 was grounded with corrosion in her wing spars in 2003, but BAE Systems generously stepped in and constructed a new set of wings, which were delivered in 2012. W5856 was saved by a major grant from the Peter Harrison Heritage Foundation. The aircraft re-joined the display circuit in 2015, carrying a new paint scheme which depicts Swordfish of 820 Naval Air Squadron during the attack of the Bismarck in 1941. Released as part of the lower-priced Inceptor series, this second Swordfish in the series (after AV72-FB-001, the other Swordfish in the Navy Wings collection) makes for another excellent value model. It comes complete with a display stand in a window presentation box. - 1:72 Scale