Airfix Westland Lysander Mk.III Special Duties (1:48)

Westland Lysander Mk.III Special Duties (1:48) Product Info: This remarkable 1:48 scale model kit of the Westland Lysander Mk.III Special Duties aircraft consists of 197 parts and provides an accurate depiction of one of the RAF's most audacious aircraft used in secret operations. Ideal for modellers aged 8 and up with intermediate skills, this kit replicates the unique alterations made to about 40 Lysander communication planes in 1941 for covert missions aiding the French Resistance. Key Features: -197 piece model kit at 1:48 scale with 316mm wingspan -Skill level 3 - suitable for intermediate modellers aged 8 years and above -Three authentic paint schemes included -Precise depiction of Special Duties modifications including external fuel tank and access ladder -World War Two era RAF aircraft -Detailed features including modified gunner's compartment with rear-sliding canopy -Represents unarmed variant configured for secret agent transport operations History: In 1941, the RAF set a requirement for the modification of around 40 Westland Lysander communication aircraft to undertake a new secretive role, termed 'Special Duties'. The aircraft were stripped of defensive weaponry and had their range extended by installing a larger internal oil tank and an external 150-gallon fuel tank beneath the fuselage. The gunner's section was altered with the addition of a rear-sliding single-piece canopy, allowing space for up to three individuals. A sturdy ladder was attached to the port-side fuselage, enabling swift boarding and disembarking for passengers during their new 'Spy Taxi' missions. Flying under the cover of night and with the assistance of the French Resistance, specialised crews courageously piloted these unarmed planes across the English Channel, transporting agents at significant personal risk to all involved. These operations were vital to the eventual success of the Second World War.  

Airfix Westland Sea King HAR.3 (Search & Rescue) (1:48)

Westland Sea King HAR.3 (Search & Rescue) (1:48) Product Info: This detailed 1:48 scale model kit brings one of Britain's most cherished Search & Rescue helicopters to your assembly table, featuring 361 precisely moulded plastic components for modellers aged 8 and up. The Westland Sea King HAR.3 was crafted specifically for the Royal Air Force's Search & Rescue missions, equipped with state-of-the-art search and navigation systems, capable of functioning in any weather, day or night. With three paint options provided, this Skill Level 4 kit enables you to construct one of the most renowned aircraft to have served in Britain's military. Key Features: -1:48 scale military aircraft kit with 361 plastic components -Includes three authentic paint options -Skill Level 4 for seasoned modellers -Highly detailed replica of the RAF Search & Rescue version -Suitable for ages 8 and up History: A pivotal aircraft of the post-war period, although Britain's Westland Helicopters eventually manufactured over 300 of the American Sea Kings, only a select few became some of the most notable aircraft to serve in Britain's military. The Sea King, known for its durability and stability, was perfectly suited for the specialised Search & Rescue role across the UK, with Westland creating several Sea Kings specifically for this purpose. Designated HAR.3 and built for the Royal Air Force, these Search & Rescue Sea Kings were equipped with cutting-edge search and navigation technology, enabling them to perform in this challenging role in any weather and at any time, day or night. Always ready in times of crisis, these yellow Sea Kings became some of the most iconic and beloved aircraft in Britain's skies, with their crews well aware of the public's admiration for them and their aircraft. If this is a machine you've long admired, then the Airfix Westland Sea King kit is surely meant for your workbench. The Westland Sea King is a product of Leonardo UK Ltd and all rights in it, including its name, are hereby reserved. The models have been produced with the permission and assistance of Leonardo MW Ltd.

Airfix Sepecat Jaguar T.2/T.4 (1:48)

Sepecat Jaguar T.2/T.4 (1:48) Product Info: This intricately crafted 1:48 scale model kit showcases the SEPECAT Jaguar T.2 & T.4, the visually striking two-seat training and conversion version of this notable Cold War strike aircraft. Comprising 245 components and featuring a wingspan of 181mm, this Skill Level 4 kit embodies the visual charm of the tandem cockpit design, which made the training Jaguar one of the most aesthetically pleasing aircraft of the Royal Air Force during its time. Offering three distinct paint options, this plastic kit enables you to recreate these proficient training aircraft, which originated from an Anglo-French initiative aimed at developing an advanced jet trainer, eventually evolving into a formidable strike platform with some models adapted for pilot training and conversion purposes. Key Features: -Intricate 1:48 scale model with 245 plastic components -Wingspan of 181mm highlighting the graceful lines of the two-seat Jaguar -Skill Level 4 kit designed for skilled modellers -Includes three genuine paint options -Accurately replicates the tandem cockpit design -Suitable for ages 8 and up -Depicts both T.2 and T.4 training versions History: The SEPECAT Jaguar began as a collaborative Anglo-French endeavor to create an advanced jet training aircraft for both countries. Over time, the Jaguar transformed into a highly effective strike aircraft, with certain models further developed for pilot training and conversion duties. Renowned for its appealing design, the tandem cockpit of the two-seat Jaguars enhanced their aesthetic allure, with many enthusiasts considering the training variant of the Jaguar to be among the most attractive Royal Air Force aircraft from the Cold War period.   BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc.

Airfix Fairey Gannet AS.1/AS.4 Export Schemes (1:48)

Fairey Gannet AS.1/AS.4 Export Schemes (1:48) Product Info: This remarkable 1:48 scale model of the Fairey Gannet AS.1/AS.4 provides modellers with a complex and fulfilling project, featuring 334 components. With a skill level of 4, this intricate kit embodies one of the Royal Navy's most unique carrier-based planes, boasting a wingspan of 344mm upon completion. You can choose from three different paint schemes, each representing various phases of this robust turboprop's service history. Key Features: -334 plastic components for a detailed and thorough assembly -1:48 scale with a wingspan measuring 344mm -Three paint schemes depicting different service eras -Skill level 4 - ideal for seasoned modellers aged 8 years and older -Captures the unique look of the Royal Navy's turboprop carrier aircraft History: The Royal Navy has operated a variety of unique aircraft at sea, but the Fairey Gannet stands out as one of the most unusual in both appearance and sound. In the summer of 1950, a Gannet made history as the first turboprop-powered plane to land on an aircraft carrier's deck. Production of the AS.1 model, the most widely manufactured variant, commenced in 1954. The Gannet also served in the navies of Australia, West Germany, and Indonesia, with the Royal Navy being the last to retire active examples of this durable naval aircraft. Try your hand at constructing this 1:48 scale model and craft a showpiece for your workbench.

Airfix Bristol Blenheim Mk.1F (1:48)

Bristol Blenheim Mk.1F  This detailed 1:48 scale model kit comprises 216 parts and provides an accurate depiction of this significant RAF light bomber and night-fighter. Enthusiasts can construct one of the 200 Blenheims adapted with unique ventral gun packs, containing four forward-firing 0.303 machine guns, turning these planes into effective long-range fighter versions. Key Features: 1:48 scale model kit with 216 parts Skill level 2 - suitable for ages 8 and above 370mm wingspan when assembled Option of three genuine paint schemes Detailed ventral gun pack with four forward-firing machine guns Precisely moulded plastic parts capture the iconic Blenheim silhouette History: When global conflict began in September 1939, the Royal Air Force had more Bristol Blenheims in service than any other aircraft type, and they played a major role in the intense air battles. Primarily used as light bombers, approximately 200 Blenheims were converted into long-range fighter/night-fighters, fitted with ventral packs on their undersides, each containing four forward-firing 0.303 machine guns. The production of these custom components, along with their mounting frames, was outsourced to Southern Railway's workshops at their Ashford location in Kent, highlighting the cooperative industrial effort that defined Britain's wartime aircraft production. These modified Blenheim Mk.IF fighters performed admirably in the early war years, filling the gap until specialised night-fighters were available. The Bristol Blenheim marked a significant leap in RAF capabilities upon its introduction in 1937, being faster than the biplane fighters of the time. Although quickly surpassed by rapid wartime advancements in aircraft design, the Blenheim's adaptability ensured its continued frontline service during the early war years, operating in nearly every theatre from Britain to North Africa and the Far East. BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc.

Airfix Bristol Bulldog Mk.IIA (1:48)

Bristol Bulldog Mk.IIA This Bristol Bulldog Mk.IIA is a secret release that will inspire aviation model-makers. This legendary aircraft has three scheme options to choose from, so you can decorate your 1:48 scale model kit in a variety of ways. 3 Scheme Options: A: No.23 Squadron, Royal Air Force Kenley, England, 1931. B: 'C' Flight Commander, No.3 Squadron, Royal Air Force, Abyssinian Crisis, East Africa, 1935. C: No.32 Squadron, Royal Air Force Kenley, England, 1935. - Plastic Kit Requires Glue & Paint to Complete - Skill Level 3 - 138 Pieces - 1:48 Scale

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 Supermarine Spitfire Mk.I (1:48)

Supermarine Spitfire Mk.I The Supermarine Spitfire is arguably the most famous and beautiful fighter aircraft ever to grace the skies. First flying in 1936, R.J. Mitchell’s masterpiece was the interceptor of choice for Fighter Command by 1940, and the envy of many of the world’s air arms. Powered by the equally famous Rolls Royce Merlin V12, the Spitfire was capable of speeds of over 360mph and had exceptional manoeuvrability. The Spitfire was an excellent dog-fighter, able to turn on the inside of an opponent to great effect during the struggles over southern England and the English Channel during the Battle of Britain. The Spitfire Mark I has come to be seen as a symbol of ‘The Few’, vital to the defence of the United Kingdom against the previously all-conquering Luftwaffe. Along with the Hurricane, it cemented its place in history during the Battle of Britain and continues to be a hugely desirable ‘warbird' at airshows. - 149 Parts - 3 Scheme Options - Skill Level 2 - Plastic kit - 1:48 Scale

Airfix Avro Anson Mk.I (1:48)

Avro Anson Mk.I (1:48) Includes: - Highly detailed plastic kit  - Full cockpit interior - Pilots - Gun turrets - Optional undercarriage (model up or down positions) - Detailed Engine and prop parts  - Radio and antenna details Waterslide transfer/decals include the following:   - A) Avro 652A Anson Mk.I, 214 (formerly NK437), Portuguese Government, 1947.    - B) Avro 652A Anson Mk.I, N61, 13th Squadron Naval Cooperation, Hellenic Air Force. Aircraft escaped to Egypt and subsequently served with the 13th Light Bomber Squadron.    - C) Avro 652A Anson Mk.I, NK201, Sydenham Station Flight, Royal Navy, Belfast, Northern Ireland, September 1955. - Kit requires glue and paint to complete NOT included - 1:48 Scale

Airfix Messerschmitt Bf109E-3 E-4 (1:48)

Messerschmitt Bf109E-3 E-4 Includes: - Detailed plastic kit - Cockpit interior details - Clear canopy parts - Pilot included - Optional undercarriage (Modelled up or down) - Armaments - Waterslide transfers/decals for the following schemes:   - A) Messerschmitt Bf109E-4, Red 1, Hptm. Rolf Pingel, 2./Jagdgeeschwader 53, Rennes, France, late-May 1940.   - B) Messerschmitt Bf109E-3, WNr.1162, White 4, Lt. Johann Böhm, 4./Jagdgeschwader 51, Desvres, France, July 1940.    - C) Messerschmitt Bf109E-3, WNr.1304, White 1, Aircraft Equipment Test Centre (CEMA), Orléans-Bricy, France, December 1939. - Length - 18.3cm - Height - 5.42cm - Width - 20.5cm -  Number of parts 107 - Kit requires glue and paint to complete NOT included - 1:48 Scale

Airfix Bristol Bulldog Mk.II (1:48)

Bristol Bulldog Mk.II - 1:48 Scale Includes: - Plastic kit - Cockpit interior details - Pilot  - Engine and exhaust parts - Prop details - Wing and strut detailing - Gun mounted gun turret - Fixed undercarriage - Waterslide transfers/decals for the following:   - A)  Bristol Bulldog Mk.II, No. 3 Squadron, Royal Air Force, Upavon, Wiltshire, England, 1929.   - B) Bristol Bulldog Mk.II, No. 17 Squadron, Royal Air Force Upavon, Wiltshire, England, 1930.   - C) Bristol Bulldog Mk.II, Fighter Squadron, No. 1 Flying Training School, Royal Australian Air Force Point Cook, Victoria, Australia, 1930s - Kit requires glue and paint to complete Not included - Length - 15.9cm - Width - 21.4cm - 120 parts - 1:48 Scale Aircraft information: A gleaming silver steed flown by the most capable and intrepid young men Britain could call upon, the Bristol Bulldog was one of the most important British aircraft of the inter-war period, when powerful biplane fighters unquestionably ruled the skies. Initially developed as a private venture by the Bristol Aeroplane Company, the Bulldog was the brainchild of accomplished aircraft designer Frank Barnwell, the man behind the successful Bristol F2B Fighter of the Great War, and was a light, all-metal and fabric-covered fighter, powered by a 440hp Bristol Jupiter engine. The Bulldog was armed with a pair of forward-firing Vickers 0.303" machine guns mounted on either side of the cockpit, but ultimately never fired its guns in anger during a relatively short seven-year period serving with Fighter Command. Although it was the most capable fighter of the day, the Bulldog was more closely associated with challenging formation flying and spectacular aerobatics, with the Royal Air Force thrilling huge crowds at airshows and pageants around the country, as they demonstrated the effectiveness of a modernising air force.  What the Bulldog did do was help advance Britain's aviation industry towards the production of the sleek, monoplane fighters which would contest the Second World War, as it highlighted the fact that biplane designs were fast approaching their zenith. Perhaps the most famous incident involving a Bristol Bulldog proved to be a rather unfortunate one, when an accomplished, but rather headstrong RAF pilot performed unauthorised low-altitude aerobatics for a group of onlookers and a private civilian aerodrome in Berkshire.  Flying so low that the wingtip of his fighter struck the ground during a manoeuvre, the Bulldog cartwheeled across the airfield, inflicting catastrophic injuries on the pilot - that pilot was future Second World War RAF ace and inspirational national hero Douglas Bader.

Airfix Fairey Gannet AS1AS4 (1:48)

Fairey Gannet AS1AS4 Includes: - Highly detailed plastic kit - Extensive cockpit and interior detail - Pilots included - Distinctive prop/ blades - Body panelling and rivet detail - Optional undercarriage (Up or down positions) - Waterslide transfers/decals - Kit requires glue and paint to complete NOT included - 1:48 Scale  Aircraft information and history: An aircraft that must surely be considered one of the most distinctive types to have ever seen Fleet Air Arm service, the Fairey Gannet was as capable as it was unique and was significant as the only post-war military contract to be won by the famous Fairey Aviation Company. Arguably the most unconventional Fairey designed aircraft to enter full production, the Gannet was developed in response to a 1945 Royal Navy requirement for an advanced carrier-based, turboprop-powered anti-submarine hunter-killer, one which was rugged enough to withstand the rigors of operation at sea.  Intended to counter the recent expansion of the Soviet submarine fleet at the start of the Cold War era, the Gannet was equipped with all manner of the latest electronic detection equipment and if an enemy submarine was detected, it could be marked, tracked, and if necessary, attacked, using bombs, depth charges, rockets, and air-launched acoustic torpedoes. One feature of the Gannet which helped to give it a unique appearance was the adoption of its powerplant, the innovative Armstrong Siddeley Double Mamba. This arrangement saw two gas turbine engines mounted side by side in the nose of the gannet, sharing a common gearbox, but both operating independently, each engine driving its own coaxially mounted, contra-rotating propeller. In addition to this, the engines could run on kerosene and even diesel fuel, which was safer to handle and less refined than traditional aviation fuels.  This arrangement provided Gannet crews with more than enough power for carrier operations, with the reassurance of two engines when embarking on long ocean patrols. Once in flight, the pilot could shut down one of the engines to conserve fuel and whilst this would reduce the Gannet's maximum speed, it would extend its loiter capabilities. Usually, a pilot would alternate engine use during a long patrol, running each engine for around an hour before swapping to the other engine - the engine mounted on the port side drove the front propeller. Another unique feature of the Gannet's design was its bi-folding wing system, something which was designed to allow this large aircraft to operate safely and to be stored aboard one of the Royal Navy's relatively small aircraft carriers. When a pilot engaged the wing unfold, this ingenious system not only prepared the wings for flight, but also automatically connected all flight control systems, hydraulic connections and fuel pipes to the main system, without any ground crew intervention.  In operation, there are reports that the Gannet was so rugged a design that when one aircraft lost the outer sections of both wings after performing a particularly violent manoeuvre, the aircraft still managed to make it back safely to its home carrier, something which can only have endeared the aircraft to its crews still further. The Fairey Gannet would prove to be an extremely rugged and highly effective anti-submarine aircraft, one which could carry an impressive array of offensive ordnance and one which was able to attack submarines either on the surface, or when submerged and trying to evade its attentions. Well-liked by air and ground crews alike, 348 Gannets would eventually be produced and in addition to serving with Britain's Fleet Air Arm, the aircraft would also see service with the navies of Australia, Germany and Indonesia.

Airfix Hawker Hunter FGA.9/FR.10/GA.11 (1:48)

Hawker Hunter FGA.9/FR.10/GA.11  Includes: - Detailed plastic kit - Cockpit canopy, interior detailing and pilot - Optional undercarriage (Up or down positions) - Intake, engine and thruster detail - Panel and body detail - New parts include:   - FR.10 Nose, 230 Gallon drop tanks (incl. support arms), Amended flaps, GA.11 specific parts, Outer pylon ejector fairings Revised inboard pylon, Amended pylon location - 3x Sets of waterslide transfers/Decals for the following:   - (A) Hawker Hunter FGA.9, Aircraft flown under Tower Bridge, London, by Flight Lieutenant Alan Pollock, No.1 Squadron, Royal Air Force West Raynham, Norfolk, England, April 5th 1968.   - (B) Hawker Hunter FR.10, No.4 Squadron, Royal Air Force Gütersloh, West Germany, 1961.   - (C) Hawker Hunter GA.11, Fleet Requirements and Aircraft Direction Unit, Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, Somerset, England, 1976. - Kit requires glue and paint to complete NOT included - !:48 Scale Aircraft information and history: April 1968: Flt Lt Alan Pollock flew between the spans of Tower Bridge to protest the lack of recognition surround the RAF's 50th Anniversary. Proving the old adage 'if it looks right, than it is right', the Hawker Hunter was a thing of aviation beauty, streamlined and cultured, but deadly fighting aeroplane at heart. Underlying the Hunter's adaptability, the FGA.9 variant was developed in response to an RAF requirement to replace ground attack Venoms serving with units in the Middle East and was basically an F.6 airframe optimised for close air support operations. Strengthening then Hunter's wing enabled it to carry an impressive array of offensive ordnance, with the FGA.9 presenting the RAF with one of their most capable ground attack fighters. 128 Hunters FGA.9's would see service with home based and overseas squadrons.

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