AIRFIX (101)

From 1944, the de Havilland Mosquito B.XVI was delivered to front line squadrons. The B.XVI was a development of the earlier B.IX variant, but a new pressurised cabin had been incorporated so the aircraft could operate at high altitude.  Although it was unarmed, the B.XVI could carry a 3,000Ib bomb load. Not long after the start of B.XVI production, modifications were incorporated on the production line to allow a 4,000Ib ‘Cookie’ or blockbuster bomb to be carried internally, a weapon which possessed devastating destructive capability.  Combining the power of these fearsome weapons with the legendary speed and bombing accuracy associated with Mosquito operations allowed Bomber Command to keep the pressure on the enemy throughout the latter stages of WWII. By this time, with its first test flight on 12 March 1945, the last bomber version of the Mosquito, B.35, was at an advanced stage of development. Powered by the Merlin 113/114 engine, the war ended before the B.35 entered service. However, it had a long career with the post-war RAF, serving operationally until early 1954. When the RAF’s new jet-powered replacement for the Mosquito, the English Electric Canberra was introduced to service in May 1951, the Mosquito B.35 was relegated from frontline operations and many B.35s continued to operate in secondary roles after conversion to target tugs.  These conversions were undertaken by Northamptonshire-based Brooklands Aviation Ltd and called TT.35s. These remained in service with Civilian Anti Aircraft Cooperation Units (CAACU) until the last one was retired in May 1963. The TT.35’s target-towing system consisted of a wind-driven ML Type G winch with 6,000ft of non-twisting steel cable towing a fabric target drogue. Features This 1:72 scale kit consists of 182 parts and introduces 21 newly designed parts Open and closed bulged bomb bay doors 4000lb “Cookie” bomb,  Bomb bay interior parts,  Target towing winch parts and other details. Marking options for 3 distinctive new schemes which tell the story of the Mosquito’s changing roles in late World War 2 and into the post-war era- including the colourful TT.35 target towing variant “TA719” which survived into preservation. 

In the summer of 1944, after the D-Day landings, British troops pressing into Normandy faced fierce resistance—and a dry pint glass. Supplies were tight, and morale was vital. So, in one of the war’s most unexpected missions, Spitfire pilots took to the skies not just with ammunition—but with beer. Ingenious airmen modified drop tanks and strapped barrels beneath their wings, delivering much-needed refreshment to parched troops across the Channel. Some called it “Operation Cheers.” These weren’t official missions. They were flights of morale. Spitfires—symbols of British grit—became airborne drays for a brief, glorious period. This Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IXc kit in 1:24 scale includes parts required to truly replicate the beer carrying Spitfires ‘Flying Drays’. This kit is perfect for advanced modellers looking to expand their collection with a classic WWII fighter in a rare and iconic style. Airfix offers a great range of aircraft models that are available both online and in-store. Included in this special release are high detail resin parts required to truly replicate the beer carrying Spitfires ‘Flying Drays’. Includes 2 x Beer barrels, including lids barrel ends. 2 x Nose cones (Information available indicates that these were probably made from the rear end of a P-51 drop tank) 2 x Bomb racks 1 x Slipper tank. Canopy masking set

A groundbreaking helicopter design, the Westland Lynx was developed as the potential replacement for several rotary types in British service during the 1970s, and produced in collaboration with French manufacturer Sud Aviation. From the prototype's maiden flight, it was clear this was a very special aircraft. It set many helicopter speed records and became famous for its incredible agility. With variants produced for the British Army and the Royal Navy, the Lynx was used in many roles and remained in service for 40 years.

The second of America's great four-engined heavy bombers of the Second World War, the Consolidated B-24 Liberator actually began development after the Army Air Corps approached the company to build B-17 Flying Fortresses. Unimpressed at the prospect, Consolidated proposed that they could design and produce their own bomber in the same time it would take them to establish production lines, and it would be better than a Flying Fortress. When their XB-24 prototype took to the air on 29th December 1939, it was a very different-looking aeroplane to the B-17 Flying Fortress, with its shoulder-mounted thin wings, deep, yet narrow fuselage and twin-boom tail, it had a maritime aircraft appearance about it. Following its eventual USAAF introduction in 1941, the B-24 Liberator was produced in vast quantities, serving in every theatre during the Second World War, and making a vital contribution to the Allied War effort.

One of the most distinctive military vehicles to see British military service, the Alvis Stalwart was a capable amphibious 6x6 cargo truck, introduced to keep Army units supplied with fuel, ammunition and general supplies during conflict. Initially developed as a private venture, the Stalwart can trace its lineage back through a series of successful 6x6 vehicles, most of which saw British military service, such as the Saladin armoured car and Saracen armoured personnel carrier. The Stalwart shared many components with its predecessors but was charged with performing a very different role. Entering service from 1966 onwards, the Stalwart lived up to its name, with its impressive off-road performance giving it a go-anywhere, fear-nothing reputation. Featuring an intricate drive and suspension system, the Stalwart afforded its crew a comfortable ride when operating over uneven terrain. However, even though the vehicle could reach speeds approaching 40mph on open roads, handling the Stalwart could be challenging, with each bank of wheels constantly trying to outpace those on the opposite side. A true amphibian, the Stalwart boasted watertight seals to protect all vital components, enabling it to deliver its vital cargo across bodies of water not served by bridges or temporary crossings, climbing out of the water on the other side if the ground was shallow or compact enough to support its weight. In the water, the Stalwart Mk.2 featured improved waterjet power and could reach speeds of 16km/h in optimum conditions.

The Handley Page (HP) Victor was a jet-powered, strategic bomber which, alongside the other ‘V’ bombers, the Avro Vulcan and Vickers Valliant, formed an essential part of Britain’s nuclear deterrent during the early part of the Cold War. The Victor was designed to carry out long-range, low-altitude attacks, but was later relegated to an aerial refuelling role when it was no longer deemed effective as a strategic bomber. Subject to RAF’s requirements for greater tactical manoeuvrability and a higher ceiling, the B.2 variant with more powerful Rolls Royce Conway engines was developed in 1959. Thirty-four were produced and several were later converted for reconnaissance and aerial refuelling purposes. Two RAF squadrons formed on the B.2 after it entered service in 1962, but it was soon succeeded by the B.2R, a conversion which allowed them to carry ‘Blue Steel’ nuclear missiles in addition to free-fall nuclear payloads. Following the introduction of submarine-launched Polaris missiles in 1969, the Victor was gradually relieved of its role as a nuclear deterrent.

In May 1965, the Defence Ministries of France and the UK agreed on a joint programme to develop a supersonic trainer and tactical strike aircraft. France had already decided upon the Brequet 1221 design and this, together with the Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca Adour engine became the basis of the Jaguar. Design leadership was with both Brequet Aviation and the British Aircraft Corporation, so the companies established the joint company SEPECAT to coordinate production. The first two-seat Jaguar trainer flew in September 1968 and the first single-seater in March 1969. Production GR.1 aircraft entered RAF service with 54 sqn in March 1974. The French Air Force phased the type into service earlier in June 1973. The GR.1 for the RAF was a single-seat all-weather strike and ground attack fighter equipped with NAVWASS (navigating and weapons aiming sub-system) enabling it to attack without using radars. Based mostly in Germany, RAF Jaguars were used for rapid deployment and regional reinforcement, and others flew in the tactical nuclear strike role carrying the WE177 bomb. Upgraded GR.1A Jaguars flew successfully in the 1990 Gulf War, where 12 aircraft flew 612 combat sorties without loss. The final Jaguars were retired from RAF service in April 2007.

Restricted by the terms of the Treaty of Versailles, the German Kriegsmarine exploited a loophole by designing a fleet of fast, wooden-hulled attack craft they referred to as Schnellboots. Expertly designed, these vessels were perfected over time and by the outbreak of the Second World War, they had become a devastatingly effective part of Germany’s naval strength. Powered by three diesel engines and featuring a triple rudder arrangement, Germany’s E Boats were some of the fastest warships in the world. With their low profile, high manoeuvrability and torpedo armament, if they penetrated any Allied convoy, they could destroy several vessels and make their escape before coming under return fire.

The Boeing B-17 ‘Flying Fortress’ boasts a remarkable legacy, as both a strategic weapon and an enduring symbol of American air power during the Second World War. Designed as a large, multi-engine bomber with substantial defensive armament, the B-17 was introduced in 1938. First used in combat with the RAF in 1941, carrying out bombing raids in France, its poor performance suggested that improved defences and greater bombing accuracy were needed. Later variants like the B-17G were more effective and gradually became potent strategic weapons, capable of carrying out high-altitude, long-range attacks. Despite heavy defensive armament B-17s still suffered at the hands of enemy fighters.

As a thoroughbred fighting aeroplane, the basic airframe of the Supermarine Spitfire was capable of accepting successive modifications which saw this incredible aircraft remain in production throughout the entire Second World War. That adaptability allowed the Spitfire to be upgraded to meet the challenge posed by the latest Luftwaffe fighters, one which saw the Spitfire Mk.IX hurriedly introduced during the summer of 1942 to combat the dominance of the fearsome Focke Wulf FW190 ‘Butcher Bird’. This variant of the Spitfire has since been described as potentially the most effective ‘stop-gap’ fighter in the history of military aviation.

Entering RAF service in 1980, the mighty Boeing Chinook HC.1 has benefitted from almost constant upgrade and further procurement since that time, and has become an essential component within Britain’s military capabilities. Indeed, it seems as if the only aircraft capable of replacing a Chinook is another Chinook, a situation not likely to change for many years. With the latest Chinooks being some of the most advanced aircraft in the current Royal Air Force inventory, the Chinook Sustainment Programme will ensure these aircraft can continue serving the nation in a way only the Chinook can, for at least the next two decades.

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.

The Bristol Blenheim was conceived as a privately funded high-speed civilian aircraft, intended to wrestle the record for the fastest civilian aircraft in Europe away from the Germans. Successfully achieving this, it immediately attracted the attention of the RAF. At the outbreak of the Second World War, the Blenheim was available in more numbers than any other RAF aircraft.

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.

The PR.XIX was the final photo reconnaissance version of the Spitfire to see active RAF service. Produced by mating features of the Mk.XI Spitfire to the powerful Griffon engine of the XIV, the PR.XIX was one of the fastest and, some say, best-looking of all Spitfire variants. Due to its role as a reconnaissance machine, it featured no armament, relying upon its high top speed to evade potential enemies. After the war, the PR.CIC served in the Far East, operating over Hainan Island and performing the RAF’s last ever operational sortie by a Spitfire over Malaya on 10th June 1957.

Arguably the only German aircraft of the Second World War that could rival the Messerschmitt Bf 109 for notoriety, the Heinkel He-111 may have started its development masquerading as a civilian airliner, but it became one of the most feared bombers of the conflict. With its fully glazed nose and large, elliptical wings, the H-6 was the most produced variant of this famous bomber, serving in every theatre of war during the Second World War in the bombing, torpedo-bombing, mine-laying and reconnaissance roles. The lack of an effective replacement meant that these aircraft were forced to soldier on until the end of the war.

While it is the pilots that often receive the most acclaim for their role in defending the United Kingdom from the Luftwaffe during the Battle of Britain in the late summer of 1940, they could never have completed this job alone. Supporting the pilots were many more men and women from across the UK who served as ground crew, performing the vital tasks of refuelling, rearming and maintaining fighter aircraft in between sorties. This was a particularly hazardous task during the Luftwaffe attacks and hit-and-run raids upon RAF airfields. In addition to refuelling and re-arming Spitfires and Hurricanes with thousands of .303 rounds, these hard-working people also patched up damaged fighters, started the engines before sorties, and assisted pilots despite the hectic pace of the battle. The bombing raids and strafing attacks claimed many lives and many more ground crew members were injured, but they carried on, both through the battle and throughout the remainder of the war, often working both in the blazing sun and freezing cold, ensuring that the RAF had the means to defend the skies of Great Britain. Includes 8 Ground Crew Figures 2 Pilot Figures 1 Trolley Accumulator 1 Oil Bowser 1 Ammunition Trolley Wheel Chock Miscellaneous Support Equipment

The Folland Gnat was a small, swept-wing British subsonic jet trainer and light fighter developed by Folland for the RAF, and flown extensively by the Indian Air Force. Its design allowed construction without specialised tools by countries that were not highly industrialised. Although never used as a fighter by the RAF, the Gnat T.1 trainer was widely used.

Born out of Germany’s apparent obsession with the heavy fighter concept, the Messerschmitt Me 410 was an excellent multi-role successor to the Messerschmitt Bf 110 but entered service too late due to the protracted development of its immediate predecessor, the Me 210. The A-1 variant was described as a high-performance light bomber. Specifications Item Length - Without Packaging (cm): 17.5 Item Width - Without Packaging (cm): 22.6 How many pieces will be found in the box opened by the customer?: 149 Item Scale: 1:72 Scale Contents (what's in the box) sets: Plastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet and decals. Finish: Plastic Number of Scheme options: 2 Skill Level: 2 Flying Hours: 2 Wingspan (mm): 226 Schemes A04069 - Messerschmitt Me410A-1, WNr.10185, U5+KG, 16./Kampfgeschwader 2, Amsterdam-Schipol, Netherlands, October 1943. (A) A04069 - Messerschmitt Me410A-1, U5+CX, 13./Kampfgeschwader 2, Coulommiers, France, August 1943. (B)

In November 1934, the Air Ministry was trialling several manufacturers’ chassis to fulfil roles within the RAF. Albion won the contract with a specially modified version of the mid-sized 463 with the prefix AM (Air Ministry). It performed many roles, most commonly used as a refueller.

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.

Built around the legendary attributes of the rugged Land Rover series, the 1 Tonne Forward Control vehicle was designed to meet a British Army requirement for an effective light gun tractor, one which was also capable of transporting 1 tonne of ammunition and other equipment in its load compartment. These vehicles were also required to be carried by air transport, and repositioning the Rover V8 engine to a position behind the cab removed the bonnet and gave these vehicles their distinctive flat front profile. These small, yet powerful 4x4 vehicles continued the legacy of the highly successful Land Rover in military service.

Modern warfare requires the support of a robust supply infrastructure and a fleet of effective vehicles to keep troops on the move and well-supplied. For almost 40 years and throughout the Cold War era, the British Army relied on the 4-ton 4x4 General Service Truck to fulfil this role. The undisputed load-lugging champion of the Army and a true workhorse of Britain’s armed forces, these incredibly rugged and reliable vehicles initially used multifuel engines but these were later replaced with more economical diesel units. With more than 50,000 produced, they were adapted to perform a multitude of different roles. Always in the background, these vehicles were unquestionably the backbone of the British Army.