Airfix Grumman F6F-5 Hellcat (1:24)

Grumman F6F-5 Hellcat (1:24) Product Info: This detailed 1:24 scale model of the Grumman F6F-5 Hellcat consists of 572 components, offering a challenging project for seasoned modellers with a skill level 4 classification. Once assembled, it boasts a wingspan of 543mm and includes four genuine paint schemes, representing one of the most pivotal fighter planes of the Pacific War. Few aircraft equalled the influence of the Grumman F6F Hellcat, a sturdy and dependable fighter designed for simple production and upkeep.   Key Features: 1:24 scale model with 572 components 543mm wingspan upon completion Skill level 4 - ideal for seasoned modellers 4 genuine paint schemes included World War Two Pacific Theatre fighter History: The Grumman F6F Hellcat entered service in 1943, exerting significant dominance in the Pacific Theatre. This powerful fighter achieved an impressive 19:1 kill ratio, contributing to nearly 75% of US Navy air victories during the conflict. The Hellcat's success in combat was so significant that it turned 305 pilots into aces, solidifying its status as one of the most effective carrier-based fighters ever built.   The F6F-5 version represented the peak of ongoing improvements and combat insights, offering an ideal mix of performance, resilience, and ease of maintenance, which made the Hellcat a highly effective weapon for US Navy and Marine Corps pilots.   Manufactured under licence from Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation. The Grumman F6F-5 Hellcat is a trademark of Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation.

Airfix Vintage Classics: Douglas Dauntless SBD 3/5 (1:72)

Vintage Classics: Douglas Dauntless SBD 3/5  This 1:72 scale model kit from the Airfix Vintage Classics collection lets you recreate the Douglas SBD Dauntless, an aircraft that might appear unassuming but was a formidable force in the air. Known for being a significant threat to the Imperial Japanese Navy, this aircraft enabled the US Navy to retaliate following the Pearl Harbour assault. Comprising 51 components and featuring a wingspan of 175mm, this Skill Level 2 kit is designed for modellers aged 8 and up, offering two paint scheme options. Key Features: 1:72 scale model kit with 51 components Completed wingspan measures 175mm Skill Level 2 - suitable for modellers aged 8 and up Includes two authentic paint schemes Part of the Vintage Classics collection Represents the SBD-3/5 versions of this renowned dive bomber History: The Douglas SBD Dauntless, an aircraft that might seem unremarkable, was a powerful airborne adversary. It became a major threat to the Imperial Japanese Navy and enabled the US Navy to retaliate after the Pearl Harbour attack. Responsible for sinking more Japanese vessels than any other aircraft during World War II, the Dauntless also downed numerous Japanese aircraft in aerial battles throughout the Pacific conflict. The SBD stood for Scout Bomber Douglas, designed as a carrier-based dive bomber and reconnaissance aircraft. Its most notable achievement came during the Battle of Midway in June 1942, when SBD dive bombers from the USS Enterprise, USS Yorktown, and USS Hornet managed to sink four Japanese aircraft carriers-Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, and Hiryu-in a single day, significantly altering the course of the Pacific War. Introduced in 1941, the SBD-3 variant offered enhanced armour for the crew and self-sealing fuel tanks, increasing its combat survivability. The SBD-5, debuting in 1943, was equipped with a more powerful 1,200 horsepower Wright R-1820-60 engine, enhancing its altitude performance. Both variants served with distinction throughout the Pacific campaign, operating from both aircraft carriers and island bases. Despite its slower speed and older design compared to newer aircraft, the Dauntless was highly effective due to its precise dive bombing, sturdy build, and reliability. It remained in frontline service until 1944, when it was gradually replaced by the faster Curtiss SB2C Helldiver, although many pilots favoured the Dauntless for its handling and dependability. Produced under licence. (Vehicle/Aeroplane Models) The distinctive logos, product markings, and trade dress are trademarks of The Boeing Company.

Airfix Vintage Classics: Mitsubishi Ki-46-II Dinah (1:72)

Vintage Classics: Mitsubishi Ki-46-II Dinah  This 1:72 scale model of the Mitsubishi Ki-46-II, known by the Allies as 'Dinah', beautifully represents one of the most sophisticated aircraft from the Second World War. Comprising 51 parts and rated at a skill level of 2, this kit is designed for modellers aged 8 and up. Once assembled, it boasts a wingspan of 152mm. The kit includes two paint schemes to enhance the authenticity of your model, allowing you to bring a piece of Japanese aviation history to life on your workbench. Key Features: 1:72 scale model of the sophisticated Mitsubishi Ki-46-II reconnaissance aircraft Contains 51 parts with a skill level of 2, ideal for modellers aged 8 and older Wingspan measures 152mm upon completion Includes two authentic paint schemes Captures the sleek design of the aircraft known as 'Dinah' by the Allies History: The Mitsubishi Ki-46 was initially designed as a high-speed reconnaissance aircraft and later adapted for use as an interceptor and strike aircraft. Its design prioritised speed and altitude, resulting in an aerodynamic form that made it one of the most visually appealing aircraft of the war. Its reconnaissance role was crucial, providing vital intelligence across the Pacific theatre. The Luftwaffe reportedly admired the Ki-46 so much that they sought to acquire manufacturing rights during the war, highlighting the aircraft's superior design and capabilities. We now hold the manufacturing rights for the model kit version, enabling you to construct your own 1:72 scale Mitsubishi Ki-46-II on your workbench.

Airfix Vintage Classics: Avro 504K (1:72)

Vintage Classics: Avro 504K  This 1:72 scale model kit lets you construct your own Avro 504K, capturing the essence of the Vintage Classics design from the past. Comprising 37 parts and rated at Skill Level 2, this plastic model kit is ideal for hobbyists aged 8 and older, offering a completed wingspan of 152mm and two genuine paint scheme options. Key Features: 1:72 scale plastic model kit with 37 parts Skill Level 2 - suitable for ages 8+ Completed wingspan of 152mm Includes two paint schemes Recreation of Vintage Classics design History: The Avro 504 series stands as one of the most significant early British aircraft of the 20th century. It was the most extensively manufactured aircraft for military use during the First World War, with the 'K' variant becoming the Royal Air Force's standard training aircraft. Many of these aircraft continued to be used well into the 1930s, marking an impressive 28-year service history. BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc.  

Airfix Vintage Classics: Shorts Skyvan (1:72)

Vintage Classics: Shorts Skyvan  This 1:72 scale model kit of the Short SC.7 Skyvan is a wonderful addition to our Vintage Classics collection. It includes 152 parts and is rated at Skill Level 3, featuring a wingspan of 275mm. The Short SC.7 Skyvan, a British twin-turboprop transport aircraft, made its maiden flight in 1963 and was designed to be straightforward and economical to operate. Manufactured until 1986, approximately 150 units were produced, with the Skyvan 3 being the most prevalent version. It was utilised globally, including by Argentina during the Falklands War, and was priced at around $650,000 in 1972. Key Features: 1:72 scale plastic model kit with 152 components Skill Level 3 build suitable for ages 8 and above Wingspan of 275mm upon completion Comes with 2 authentic paint schemes Part of the Vintage Classics range Detailed depiction of the British twin-turboprop transport aircraft History: The Short SC.7 Skyvan was a unique British twin-turboprop transport aircraft that first flew in 1963. It was conceived as a robust, practical aircraft, prioritising simplicity and cost-effectiveness, making it appealing to both commercial and military operators. Production continued until 1986, with around 150 aircraft constructed. The Skyvan 3 variant became the most widespread, offering enhancements over earlier versions and setting the standard for production. This aircraft was deployed worldwide, fulfilling various roles from cargo to passenger transport. Its adaptability and dependability led to its widespread use, with operators valuing its ability to function from short, unprepared runways. During the Falklands War, Argentina utilised Skyvans for military transport, showcasing its operational versatility under challenging conditions. In 1972, the aircraft was available for approximately $650,000, offering excellent value for its capabilities. The Skyvan's boxy, functional design earned it several affectionate nicknames, but its practical design focused on utility, featuring a spacious cargo area and rear loading ramp for quick loading and unloading.

Airfix North American F-86F/E(M) Sabre (1:72)

North American F-86F/E(M) Sabre (1:72) Product Info: This 1:72 scale model kit recreates the renowned North American F-86 Sabre, a pioneering classic jet fighter celebrated for its exceptional pilot-friendly design. Equipped with six dependable 0.50cal M3 Browning machine guns and expertly balanced controls, the Sabre epitomised advanced aviation technology before rockets became standard. Comprising 63 components and rated at skill level 2, this kit invites you to construct a piece of aviation heritage. Key Features: -1:72 scale replica of the iconic F-86F/E(M) Sabre jet fighter -63 intricately moulded plastic parts for detailed assembly -Six 0.50cal M3 Browning machine guns rendered with precision -Includes two genuine decoration schemes -Skill level 2 - suitable for modellers aged 8 years and older -Part of the esteemed Vintage Classics collection History: Nearly 10,000 Sabres were built, serving in about 30 different air forces globally. The F-86 Sabre's outstanding performance and reliability led to its widespread international use, with production under licence in Canada, Australia, Japan, and Italy. This impressive production and global deployment solidified the Sabre's reputation as one of the most successful jet fighters of the Cold War era, marking a significant shift in aviation history with the advent of swept-wing jet technology.   Produced under licence. (Vehicle/Aeroplane Models) the distinctive logos, product markings, and trade dress are all trademarks of The Boeing Company.  

Airfix Junkers Ju52/3mg4e 'Tante Ju' (1:72)

Junkers Ju52/3mg4e 'Tante Ju' (1:72) Product Info: This remarkable 1:72 scale model of the Junkers Ju52/3mg4e comprises 218 parts, providing hobbyists with an intricate assembly of one of the most renowned transport planes of the 20th century. With a wingspan measuring 444mm and a skill level 3 classification, this kit offers three paint options to reflect various aircraft configurations. Key Features: -218 parts for a detailed 1:72 scale model -Selection of three genuine paint options -Completed wingspan of 444mm -Skill level 3 - ideal for modellers aged 8 and up -Faithfully replicates the unique corrugated metal design -Depicts a versatile aircraft used for transport, medical evacuation, glider towing, and more History: One of the standout aircraft of the 20th century, the Junkers Ju52 began as a single-engine cargo plane, making its debut flight in October 1930. Merely six months later, the three-engine version made a significant impact in aviation, delivering enhanced power and the safety of multiple engines. This aircraft could accommodate 17 passengers in relative comfort for its time, aiding Lufthansa in establishing early European commercial routes. Notable for its corrugated magnesium/aluminium construction, the Junkers Ju52 was a dependable and robust aircraft, serving as the mainstay of the Luftwaffe's transport fleet during WWII. The aircraft was also utilised as an air ambulance, paratrooper carrier, glider tug, seaplane, and even a minesweeper, equipped with a large metal degaussing ring under the fuselage to create a magnetic field that triggered Allied naval mines. Nearly 5,000 of these planes were built, but now that it's available in 1:72 scale, you can construct as many of these model kits as you desire!  

Airfix Lockheed F-117A Nighthawk (1:72)

Lockheed F-117A Nighthawk (1:72) Product Info: This remarkable 1:72 scale model kit of the Lockheed F-117A Nighthawk allows you to bring one of the most distinctive and technologically advanced stealth aircraft to your workbench. Comprising 48 parts and rated at skill level 2, this kit is perfect for modellers aged 8 and up, enabling them to assemble this extraordinary creation from Lockheed's renowned 'Skunk Works'. The completed model features a wingspan of 183mm and offers a choice of three paint schemes. Key Features: -1:72 scale model kit with 48 parts -Skill level 2, ideal for ages 8 and older -Wingspan measures 183mm upon completion -Includes three genuine paint schemes -Stealth attack aircraft from the Cold War period -Showcases one of Lockheed's most unique aircraft designs History: The F-117 Nighthawk stands out as one of the most distinctive aircraft ever to soar through global skies. Developed by Lockheed's renowned 'Skunk Works', this advanced attack aircraft utilised cutting-edge stealth technology. Although officially retired by the US Air Force in 2008, these enigmatic aircraft remain invaluable and continue to undertake highly classified missions today.   LOCKHEED MARTIN ® (Vehicle/Aeroplane Models) associated emblems and logos, and body designs of vehicles are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Lockheed Martin Corporation® in the USA and/or other jurisdictions, used under licence by Hornby Hobbies Ltd.  

Airfix Vintage Classics: Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina (1:72)

Vintage Classics: Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina This 1:72 scale model kit showcases the iconic Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina, a standout aircraft from the Second World War. Comprising 128 parts and rated at skill level 3, this Vintage Classic kit is designed for experienced model enthusiasts. It features a wingspan of 438mm and offers three genuine decoration options. This kit faithfully represents the PBY-5A, known for its amphibious capabilities, operating seamlessly from both water and conventional airfields. Key Features: 1:72 scale model kit with 128 components for seasoned builders Completed model boasts a 438mm wingspan Includes three genuine decoration options Skill level 3 - ideal for experienced modellers aged 8 and above Depicts the versatile PBY-5A amphibious model Part of the Vintage Classics collection History: The Catalina is undeniably one of the most recognisable aircraft from the Second World War, designed to secure victory in crucial maritime conflicts. Despite its size, it was remarkably nimble. The PBY-5A variant stands out as a quintessential model, capable of operating both on water and at conventional airfields.

Airfix Avro Shackleton AEW.2/MR.2 (1:72)

Avro Shackleton AEW.2/MR.2 (1:72) Product Info: This intricately detailed model kit of the Avro Shackleton is crafted at a 1:72 scale and includes 290 components, enabling you to construct either the AEW.2 or MR.2 versions of this iconic Cold War maritime patrol aircraft. With a wingspan measuring 508mm and a skill level 3 classification, the kit provides decals for three distinct aircraft paint schemes. It is designed for modellers aged 8 and up, accurately depicting the final four-engined propeller-driven bomber/strike aircraft to serve with the Royal Air Force. Key Features: 290 plastic components for a thorough and detailed assembly 1:72 scale with a wingspan of 508mm Selection of three genuine aircraft paint schemes Skill level 3 - perfect for intermediate modellers Suitable for ages 8 and above Depicts both AEW.2 and MR.2 versions History: With its roots in the renowned Lancaster from the Second World War, the Avro Shackleton was a long-distance maritime patrol aircraft primarily engaged in anti-submarine warfare, although it was tasked with various other duties as well. Introduced into RAF service in 1951, most Shackletons were equipped with the powerful Rolls Royce Griffon engine, marking the end of the era for four-engined propeller-driven bomber/strike aircraft in the Royal Air Force. The decommissioning of HMS Ark Royal raised concerns within the Royal Navy about losing crucial airborne early warning capabilities. However, a plan to install radar systems from the Ark Royal’s former AEW Fairey Gannets onto RAF Avro Shackletons alleviated these concerns. Twelve Shackleton airframes were modified to the AEW Mk.2 standard and flew with No.8 Squadron at RAF Lossiemouth, remaining in service until the squadron was disbanded in 1991. BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc.

Airfix DH Mosquito B.XVI/B.35/TT.35 (1:72)

DH Mosquito B.XVI/B.35/TT.35 (1:72) -1:72 Scale plastic kit -requires glue & paints to complete (not included) - Wingspan 229mm - No. of parts 182 -Choice of 3 markings

Airfix Boulton Paul Defiant NF.I (1:48)

Boulton Paul Defiant NF.I Quickly outclassed as a day fighter during the Battle of Britain, the Boulton Paul Defiant was tasked with protecting Britain from night bombing raids by the Luftwaffe. Not trained to fight at night, Defiant crews had to develop interception techniques as they fought but found the aircraft much more suited to this nocturnal fighting environment. After enjoying initial success against Luftwaffe pilots unfamiliar with Britain's turret fighter, Defiant crews soon discovered the limitations of their aircraft. The significant weight of the gun turret, combined with a relatively poor arc of defensive fire, meant that German Messerschmitts soon learned how to attack these unusual aircraft. As combat losses began to mount, RAF Defiants were relegated to night fighting duties, where the aircraft was much less vulnerable and could make better use of its offensive firepower. As the night Blitz against London raged, Defiant crews had to develop their own interception techniques, as many were not trained in this type of fighting. They soon began to score victories against the Luftwaffe raiders, helping to establish a cohesive night defence system and rebuilding the reputation of the Defiant. These all-black nocturnal hunters became some of the most distinctive RAF aircraft of the Second World War.  - Plastic Kit Requires Glue & Paint to Complete - 133 Pieces - 2 Scheme Options - Skill Level 2 - 250mm Wingspan - 1:48 Scale

Airfix Vintage Classics: Westland Puma HC.1 (1:72)

Westland Puma HC.1 Satisfying a Royal Air Force requirement for an effective medium support helicopter, when the Westland Puma HC.1 entered service with No.33 Squadron in 1971, it was the first Anglo-French aircraft collaboration of its kind.  Possessing exceptional speed and agility, the Puma was capable of carrying 16 passengers, 12 fully equipped troops, or two tonnes of cargo, either carried internally, as an underslung load, or via a combination of the two.  An incredibly versatile and reliable helicopter, the latest variant of this magnificent aircraft remains in service with the RAF, some 53 years since those first machines arrived at RAF Odiham. - Plastic Kit Requires Glue & Paint to Complete - 112 Pieces - 2 Scheme Options - Skill Level 3 - 200mm Rotorspan - 1:72 Scale

Airfix Westland Wessex HC.2 (1:72)

Westland Wessex HC.2 The Westland Wessex HC.2 was a licence-built turbine-powered development of the classic American Sikorski S-58 ‘Choctaw’ helicopter, one of the world’s first truly capable helicopters which established these aircraft as essential for a host of military and civilian applications. The continuation of an existing arrangement between Sikorsky and Westland, the Wessex was initially developed for the Royal Navy in the anti-submarine and utility roles but was further developed as the HC.2 for the Royal Air Force, entering service in 1962, a year later than the Navy machines.  In RAF service, these powerful helicopters performed several roles, including troop and supply transportation, ground support and air evacuation duties. However, it was their use as Air Sea Rescue helicopters which made these some of the highest-profile aircraft in service at that time. The Wessex represented the pinnacle of rotary technology when introduced and could operate from, and into places that other aircraft couldn’t. - Plastic Kit Requires Glue & Paint to Complete - 134 Pieces - 3 Scheme Options - Skill Level 1 - 238mm Rotorspan - 1:72 Scale

Airfix Focke-Wulf Fw190A-8/F-8 (1:72)

Focke-Wulf Fw190A-8/F-8 First flying in 1939, the Focke-Wulf FW190 was an immediate threat to RAF fighters when introduced in late 1941, being faster and more manoeuvrable than the Spitfire V then in service.  The F-8 was the ground-attack version and differed primarily in its lack of outboard cannons. Various combinations of underwing weapons were fitted, but the most common was one centreline bomb and four small bombs on the wings.  The A-8 version was the most numerous, heavily armed variant and entered service in 1944 in an attempt to stop Allied daylight raids. By then, however, the new Allied fighters had begun to outclass it. - Plastic Kit Requires Glue & Paint to Complete - 74 Pieces - 2 Scheme Options - Skill Level 1 - 145mm Wingspan - 1:72 Scale

Airfix Vintage Classics: Boeing 314 Clipper (1:144)

Boeing 314 Clipper This Boeing 314 Clipper kit will bring back memories for some of the most experienced Airfix modellers. This Vintage Classic model was a popular release when it first appeared, and with 76 pieces, the 1:144 design is a pleasant build. Representing one of the most glamorous aircraft types to ever take to the skies, the Boeing 314 Clipper was produced to allow passengers and cargo to travel across the vast expanses of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, in levels of style and comfort which rivalled those on the great ocean liners.  Twelve aircraft were produced for Pan American World Airways and BOAC, however, the start of the Second World War resulted in these opulent flying boats being used mainly for military purposes, with aircraft serving as transport for Franklin D Roosevelt and Winston Churchill. - Plastic Kit Requires Glue & Paint to Complete - 76 Pieces - 2 Scheme Options - Skill Level 2 - 320mm Wingspan - 1:144 Scale

Airfix Vintage Classics: Bristol 192 Belvedere (1:72)

Bristol 192 Belvedere Includes: - Plastic kit - Prop/ rotor and engine detailed parts - Clear canopy parts - Cockpit interior - Fixed undercarriage - Body side door can be modelled open or closed - Waterslide transfers/decals for the following schemes:   - (A) Bristol 192 Belvedere, Development Trials, Aircraft and Armament Experimental Establishment, Royal Air Force Boscombe Down, Wiltshire, England, late 1959.    - (B) Bristol 192 Belvedere, Belvedere Trials Unit, Royal Air Force Odiham, Hampshire, England, October 1960. - Kit requires glue and paints to complete NOT included - Length  (Without Packaging): 385mm / 38.5cm) - Width / Rotorspan: 207mm / 20.7cm - 50x Parts - 1:72 Scale  Aircraft information: A significant post-war achievement for Britain's aviation industry, the Bristol Belvedere was a highly capable, tandem-rotor, heavy-lift helicopter which underlined the versatility of modern rotorcraft. Featuring true twin-engine redundancy, the Belvedere could operate safely on just a single engine if required. Surprisingly, only 26 of these helicopters were produced.

Airfix Blackburn Buccaneer S.2C/D (1:48)

Blackburn Buccaneer S.2C/D A mighty naval strike aircraft which can trace its origins back to Britain's response to a massive naval expansion programme by the Soviet Navy in the 1950s and the introduction of their Sverdlov Class Cruisers, the Blackburn Buccaneer was designed to have exceptional low altitude performance and the ability to effectively neutralise this new naval threat. Required to operate from the relatively confined space aboard one of Britain's aircraft carriers, this subsonic strike jet was the most capable aircraft of its kind in the world and a real triumph for Britain's aviation industry - it also happened to be the heaviest aircraft ever operated by the Royal Navy. In order to allow its effective operation at sea, the Buccaneers design not only included the ability to fold its wings, but also the nose (radar housing) and rear speed brake could be folded back and split open respectively, allowing for more effective carrier stowage, whilst maintaining the aerodynamic integrity of the aircraft. Entering Royal Navy service in July 1962, there were no two seat trainer versions of the Buccaneer, so even though the pilot would have had the benefit of several flights as a back seat observer in the new aircraft, his first flight as pilot would therefore be his Buccaneer solo. Thankfully, the Blackburn designers included many hi-tech automated features in the Buccaneer's roomy cockpit, all of which were intended to reduce pilot workload. There is something aviation enthusiasts find particularly fascinating about the operation of aircraft at sea and the intrepid aviators who flew aeroplanes from the heaving decks of aircraft carriers under steam, particularly when aviation entered the jet age. The unforgiving nature of these operations dictated that naval aircraft had to be extremely tough, in addition to being capable of carrying out the mission for which they were required, attributes the Blackburn Buccaneer possessed in abundance.  The introduction of the S.2 variant of the aircraft in late 1965 saw a major upgrade of the Buccaneer's capabilities, but centred around the adoption of a new powerplant, the famous Rolls Royce Spey turbofan. Possessing greater thrust and increased range, the Buccaneer S.2 was an even more capable naval strike aircraft and one which must have struck fear into the hearts of every Soviet naval commander. With its increased power, the S.2 was now able to land back on its home carrier with one engine shut down if required, but still having enough thrust to safely go around again, should the aircraft fail to catch the arrestor hook. The Buccaneers of No.800 Naval Air Squadron were famously involved in the destruction of the stricken oil tanker Torrey Canyon, off Land's End in March 1967, as the government attempted to avert an environmental catastrophe by breaking open the vessel and burning its flammable cargo. Operating from RAF Brawdy, eight Buccaneers from No.800 NAS dropped 42,000 lbs of high explosive bombs on the tanker, achieving an impressive 75% success rate. Includes - Highly detailed plastic kit - 4x Squadron Markings to choose from:   - Blackburn Buccaneer S.2D No. 809 Naval Air Squadron, HMS Ark Royal, August 1978. (A)  - Blackburn Buccaneer S.2C No. 801 Naval Air Squadron, HMS Hermes, 1969. (B)  - Blackburn Buccaneer S.2C No. 809 Naval Air Squadron, Royal Naval Air Station Lossiemouth, Scotland, 1970. (C)  - Blackburn Buccaneer S.2C No. 803 Naval Air Squadron, Royal Naval Air Station Lossiemouth, Scotland, 1969. (D) - Detailed cockpit - Engine Panel detail - Opening Air Brake - Intake Covers & Crew Access Ladders - Optional undercarriage (up or down) - Armament detail - Waterslide decals/transfers - Kit requires glue and paint to complete NOT included - 1:48 Scale

Airfix Avro Vulcan B.2 (1:72)

Avro Vulcan B.2 Includes: - Highly detailed plastic kit - Cockpit detailing - Cockpit flap and access ladder - Optional undercarriage (Up or down positions) - Body panel and rivet detailing - Wing flaps can be positioned up or down - Bomb bay doors can be modelled open or closed - Full armament  - Waterslide transfers/decals for the following:   - (A) Scheme option B - Avro Vulcan B.Mk.2 XM602, RAF No.12 Squadron As the massive construction hangar doors at Avro’s Woodford factory aerodrome were pushed open on 30th August 1952 and Avro Vulcan prototype VX770 was wheeled out onto the hardstanding, she must have made for an awe-inspiring sight. Looking absolutely resplendent in its all-over white ‘Anti-Flash’ paint finish and proudly wearing its Royal Air Force insignia, what the Avro engineers had managed to produce was not only the world’s first delta bomber, but also the most advanced bomber in the world at that time.- Kit requires glue and paint to complete NOT included    - (B) Scheme option B - Avro Vulcan B.Mk.2 XM602, RAF No.12 Squadron As the massive construction hangar doors at Avro’s Woodford factory aerodrome were pushed open on 30th August 1952 and Avro Vulcan prototype VX770 was wheeled out onto the hardstanding, she must have made for an awe-inspiring sight. Looking absolutely resplendent in its all-over white ‘Anti-Flash’ paint finish and proudly wearing its Royal Air Force insignia, what the Avro engineers had managed to produce was not only the world’s first delta bomber, but also the most advanced bomber in the world at that time. - Kit requires glue and paint to complete NOT included - 1:72 Scale  Aircraft information and history: Occupying a significant position in the history of post war British aviation, the Avro Vulcan was without doubt one of the most distinctive aircraft ever to take to the skies, with its huge delta wing profile becoming almost as iconic as the elliptical wing of the Supermarine Spitfire. Built to satisfy an extremely demanding Air Ministry requirement for a fast, high altitude strategic bomber, capable of carrying a special payload of 10,000 imperial pounds in weight (a nuclear device), the new aircraft was intended to serve as an airborne deterrent to any future military threat against the UK, with the required specifications representing a 100% increase in the capabilities of any previous British bomber aircraft. When the Vulcan made its maiden flight in August 1952, the Avro team were well on the way to presenting the Royal Air Force with not only the worlds first delta bomber, but also one of the worlds most effective strike bombers. Interestingly, all this was achieved just nine years since the Avro Lancasters of RAF No.617 Squadron had launched their famous raid against the great dams of the Ruhr Valley. As the Avro Vulcan entered squadron service with No.83 Squadron at RAF Waddington in July 1957, Britain now possessed the fastest nuclear capable bomber in the world. It seems strange to describe an aircraft which possessed such potential for untold destruction as Britain's most effective peace keeping asset, however, that is exactly what the Vulcan turned out to be. Throughout the aggressive posturing of the Cold War, the Warsaw Pact nations were in no doubt that if they dared to launch an attack against a NATO member country, the consequences of the inevitable retaliatory strike would be catastrophic. Without Doubt, during the early years of its service career, nothing represented this doomsday scenario more effectively than the mighty Avro Vulcan. As the Royal Air Force exhaustively trained their new Vulcan crews to provide Britain with an effective Quick Reaction Alert strike force, Avro engineers were already working to improve the capabilities of their original, iconic design. In order to ensure the aircraft continued to maintain its effective deterrent threat and stayed one step ahead of advances in Easter Bloc fighter and surface-to-air missile technology, designers incorporated developments which endowed the aircraft with greater range, speed and altitude performance. The installation of more powerful versions of the Vulcans Bristol Olympus engines would result in a number of unforeseen stability issues with these first bombers, which concerned designers enough to necessitate a re-design of the original wing shape. By the time the definitive B.2 variant of the Vulcan entered service, the aircrafts wing area had increased significantly and although still classed as a delta, would look quite different from the first bombers which entered service. To cope with the increased power availability from subsequent engine upgrades and to cure the instability issues of the original straight wing design, the B.2 wing had two defined kinks in its leading edge, well forward of the profile of the original wing design. Rather than detract from the pleasing aesthetics of the early Vulcans delta wing, the B.2 actually enhanced the profile of the aircraft and even though these changes were obviously made for reasons of operational effectiveness, as opposed to appearance, the B.2 would go on to be considered the most famous (and most numerous) of all the RAFs Vulcans. The service introduction of the Vulcan B.2 in July 1960 coincided with the availability of more capable nuclear weapons for the V-bomber force, both in number and destructive potential. It would also bring about a change in thinking regarding the delivery of such weapons, as significant advances in Soviet anti-aircraft technology now threatened the success of a free-fall gravity bomb mission. A significant new weapon would have to be developed in order to maintain the deterrent threat of the Vulcan and its V-bomber partners. Developed to maintain the validity of Britain's nuclear deterrent threat, designers at Avro produced the powerful Blue Steel air-launched, nuclear stand-off missile, which would allow V-bomber crews to launch their attacks 100 miles away from their intended target and out of the range of Soviet surface-to-air missile batteries, allowing crews valuable additional time to avoid the resultant blast. Further boosting the effectiveness of the V-bomber force, the arrival of Blue Steel raised the nuclear stakes in Britains favour once more and would have caused much consternation amongst the Warsaw Pact nations. The responsibility of providing Britain's strategic nuclear deterrent passed to the submarines of the Royal Navy in July 1969 and saw the RAF performing its final V-bomber Blue Steel mission late the following year. Although taking on a more conventional strike role, RAF Vulcans would retain a nuclear capability and maintain their position as one of the worlds most effective bombers for the next fourteen years, before finally being withdrawn from service. Due to the affection in which this aircraft was held by the British public, the Vulcan Display Flight was almost immediately formed to operate one aircraft on the UK Airshow circuit for a further nine years, before itself being disbanded. To the amazement of the historic aviation world, the last flying Avro Vulcan, XH558, the aircraft which had previously served as the Vulcan Display Flight aircraft, triumphantly returned to the air once more, this time in the hands of a civilian organisation in October 2007. Over the course of the next eight years, the Vulcan thrilled millions of people around the country, becoming something of an aviation national treasure a relic of the Cold War which was held in great public affection.