AIRFIX (144)

The 2026 Airfix Catalogue serves as an indispensable guide for all your kit modelling pursuits throughout the year. This detailed paper catalogue features the entire selection of Airfix products, ideal for modellers aged 8 and older. Features Comprehensive overview of the 2026 Airfix product line Vital resource for organising your modelling endeavours A collector's item for dedicated enthusiasts Thorough coverage of all kit modelling essentials Appropriate for ages 8 and up History The Airfix Catalogue has consistently been cherished by modellers globally, functioning not just as a product directory but as a wellspring of inspiration and excitement for the upcoming year. Each yearly edition becomes a valued resource, capturing the progression of the Airfix collection and preserving a moment in the history of model making. For hobbyists, the release of the new catalogue signifies the start of the modelling year, providing an opportunity to explore, strategise, and envision future projects. Beyond its functional role, the Airfix Catalogue has achieved recognition as a collectible in its own right. Experienced modellers often maintain complete collections of catalogues, with each edition symbolising a specific period in the storied tradition of British model making. The catalogue caters to both novices and veterans, offering detailed information to assist in purchasing decisions while celebrating the craftsmanship and engineering excellence synonymous with the Airfix brand. The 2026 edition upholds this esteemed tradition, presenting modellers with a full overview of available model kits, tools, paints, and accessories. Whether you're planning an intricate diorama, searching for the ideal next project, or simply enjoying the experience of browsing through beautifully curated models, this catalogue provides everything necessary to sustain your modelling enthusiasm throughout the year.

When it comes to specially presented RAF Typhoon FGR.4 display aircraft of the past 10 years, the one which served the longest on the UK airshow circuit, and was unquestionably the most patriotic in appearance was ZJ914. Resplendent in a smart all-over black Aggressor scheme, the aircraft also benefited from union flag style markings and an RAF roundel on each side of its tail, and no matter what the weather, when this aircraft displayed with afterburners engaged, it was an aviation sight to behold. The scheme was similar to the one worn by the RAF Shorts Tucano T.1 display during the 2008 season, which also had a black airframe, with red, white and blue detailing to mark the 90th anniversary of the Royal Air Force. Two Tucanos were presented in this manner: ZF210 and ZE338, with one serving as a reserve should the assigned display aircraft become unserviceable. The Tucano was the RAF’s basic training aircraft for 30 years, prior to its service withdrawal in 2019. In the continuation of a now popular tradition, Typhoon ZJ914 also inherited a name by which all enthusiasts referred to her, as she became ‘Blackjack’. The aircraft wore this popular scheme for three full display seasons and even throughout the early months of display work up to the 2024 airshow season. So, is it any wonder that ‘Blackjack’ became one of the most popular aircraft to have represented the Royal Air Force during the 21st century? 'Blackjack' and the aircraft which inspired her look are now both ready to build in 1:72 scale - a great project for modellers startimg to find their feet in this hobby. Specification Item Length - Without Packaging (cm): 43 Item Width - Without Packaging (cm): 20.5 How many pieces will be found in the box opened by the customer? 91 Item Scale: 1:72 Scale License line: BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc. Contents (what's in the box) sets: Plastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet and decals. Number of Scheme options: 1 Skill Level: 2 Flying Hours: 2

This remarkable dual set combines two legendary RAF aircraft models in 1:72 scale, featuring the contemporary Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 'Moggy' alongside the historic Hawker Typhoon Mk.Ib that inspired its eye-catching D-Day tribute design. Comprising 117 parts and rated at skill level 2, this two-kit set is ideal for modellers aged 8 and older, enabling you to recreate both the original 1944 camouflage of No.257 (Burma) Squadron and the stunning 2024 homage on the RAF Display Team's aircraft. As the nation prepared for the 80th anniversary of D-Day in summer 2024, aviation fans across Britain frequently checked the Royal Air Force Typhoon Display Team's social media for exciting updates. Indeed, on a rainy Monday in May, the doors of a hardened aircraft shelter (HAS) at RAF Coningsby opened to unveil a stunning Eurofighter Typhoon adorned in 1944 camouflage and identification markings. The striking design on Typhoon FGR.4 ZJ913 was inspired by the RAF No.257 (Burma) Squadron Hawker Typhoon Mk.Ib, piloted by Officer Denzil Jenkins during the D-Day landings on 6th June 1944, featuring the iconic black and white identification stripes that were a hallmark of Allied aircraft over Normandy on D-Day. This was a brilliant move by the RAF PR team, and this aircraft captivated millions during the subsequent airshow season, at commemorative events in both the UK and France, and during a successful Canadian tour. Fans quickly gave this unique aircraft a nickname, and from that initial day at Coningsby, she was known as 'Moggy', a clever nod to the squadron codes she bore, using the roundel as an O. Unfortunately, this appealing aircraft only served as the RAF display Typhoon for one season, but it will be fondly remembered as one of the most beloved RAF aircraft of the post-war period. 'Moggy' can now be a standout piece on your workbench, alongside the aircraft that inspired her design, with both model kits beautifully capturing this extraordinary link between past and present. Features Twin pack includes both Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 'Moggy' and Hawker Typhoon Mk.Ib in 1:72 scale 117 pieces with skill level 2 build, perfect for modellers aged 8 years and above Authentic schemes celebrating the 80th anniversary of D-Day Eurofighter Typhoon features distinctive black and white D-Day identification markings Wingspan of 153mm on completed Eurofighter model Recreate the historic 1944 No.257 (Burma) Squadron camouflage scheme Decals for ZJ913, the RAF Typhoon Display Team aircraft from the 2024 season. Specifications Item Length - Without Packaging (cm): 43 Item Width - Without Packaging (cm): 20.5 How many pieces will be found in the box opened by the customer? 117 Item Scale: 1:72 Scale License line: BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc. Contents (what's in the box) sets: Plastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet and decals. Number of Scheme options: 1 Skill Level: 2 Flying Hours: 2 Wingspan (mm): 153

This remarkable 1:48 scale model of the English Electric Lightning F.6 showcases one of the most pivotal British aircraft from the post-war period with exquisite detail. Comprising 153 components and featuring a wingspan of 220mm, this kit replicates the pinnacle version of this supersonic marvel, an aircraft that enhanced the capabilities of its predecessors with superior speed, extended range, and improved maneuverability. Among the notable British aircraft developed after the Second World War, the English Electric Lightning stands out for its significant impact. Initially deployed to defend Britain's V-Bomber bases from Soviet bomber threats, this supersonic marvel was epitomised by the Lightning F.6, which surpassed its predecessors with enhanced speed, range, and handling. This extraordinary aircraft served the Royal Air Force for an impressive 28 years, navigating some of the most turbulent periods in global history. The F.6 model marked the reintroduction of guns, which had been omitted in the preceding F.3, complementing its pair of Red Top air-to-air missiles, much to the satisfaction of RAF pilots. While the Lightning was renowned for its incredible speed, pilots believed it was capable of more than just defending points, demonstrating proficiency in dogfighting, provided its cannon armament was retained. Features Skill level 3 kit suitable for ages 8 and above 153 plastic parts with impressive detail throughout Three authentic paint schemes included 220mm wingspan for impressive display presence Accurately recreates the F.6 variant with restored cannon armament Includes Red Top air-to-air missile configuration options Specifications 1:48 Scale Parts Included: 154 Skill Level: 3 Scheme Options: 3

This detailed 1:600 scale naval ship kit allows you to recreate the German heavy cruiser Prinz Eugen, featuring 151 plastic components and offering two genuine paint schemes. Designed for modellers aged 8 and up with a skill level of 3, this kit provides an engaging project of one of the Kriegsmarine's distinguished warships. Prinz Eugen was sent into the North Atlantic alongside the Bismarck to target convoys heading to Great Britain. During the Denmark Strait battle, she inflicted damage on both HMS Hood (later sunk by Bismarck) and HMS Prince of Wales, before making her way to Brest in occupied France. The heavy cruiser Prinz Eugen was named after Prince Eugene of Savoy, an 18th-century Austrian general. As part of the Admiral Hipper-class heavy cruisers, she was a formidable ship equipped with eight 20.3cm guns in four twin turrets, twelve 10.5cm anti-aircraft guns, and twelve 53.3cm torpedo tubes. Commissioned in August 1940, Prinz Eugen became one of the Kriegsmarine's most effective surface raiders. Her most notable action occurred in May 1941 when she joined Bismarck on Operation Rheinübung, aimed at disrupting Allied convoy routes in the Atlantic. During the subsequent encounter in the Denmark Strait, Prinz Eugen's precise gunnery played a role in the devastating attack on HMS Hood, while her shells also hit HMS Prince of Wales. After the battle, she managed to evade British forces and reached the safety of Brest, while Bismarck continued alone to her tragic end. Following repairs and further missions in the Atlantic and Baltic, Prinz Eugen survived the war, surrendered to the Allies in Copenhagen in May 1945, and was later given to the United States Navy as a war prize. She was used in the Operation Crossroads atomic bomb tests at Bikini Atoll in July 1946, surviving both explosions before eventually capsizing in December 1946, where her wreck remains today. Features 1:600 scale model with 151 plastic components Skill level 3 - intermediate build complexity Two genuine paint schemes included Suitable for ages 8 years and above Part of the Battle of Bismarck collection Second World War German heavy cruiser Specifications Item Length - Without Packaging (cm): 35.4 Item Width - Without Packaging (cm): 3.6 How many pieces will be found in the box opened by the customer? 151 Item Scale: 1:600 Scale Contents (what's in the box) sets: Plastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet and decals. Number of Scheme options: 2 Skill Level: 3 Flying Hours: 2

One of the powerful new Battleships produced for the German Kriegsmarine during the mid 1930s, Scharnhorst was equipped with nine 11-inch main guns which made her a capable commerce raider, but unable to compete with the many more heavily armed Battleships of the Royal Navy. She was sunk by HMS Duke of York at the Battle of the North Cape on 26th December 1943, but you can bring it back to life in 1:600 scale plastic model kit form! Specifications Item Length - Without Packaging (cm): 38.5 Item Width - Without Packaging (cm): 5 How many pieces will be found in the box opened by the customer?: 159 Item Scale: 1:600 Scale Contents (what's in the box) sets: Plastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet and decals. Number of Scheme options: 1 Skill Level: 3 Flying Hours: 2

Built for the Royal Navy after the First World War and completed in 1927, HMS Nelson saw active service from the outbreak of the Second World War, and was present at the surrender of the Japanese in Singapore in 1945. This military ship model kit is an incredible replica of HMS Nelson in 1:600 scale. Specifications Item Length - Without Packaging (cm): 36 Item Width - Without Packaging (cm): 5.4 How many pieces will be found in the box opened by the customer?: 132 Item Scale: 1:600 Scale Contents (what's in the box) sets: Plastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet and decals. Number of Scheme options: 2 Skill Level: 2 Flying Hours: 2

This 1:600 scale model kit of HMS Suffolk captures the essence of the County-class heavy cruiser, which played a crucial role in tracking the Bismarck in the Denmark Strait during May 1941. Comprising 128 components, this Skill Level 2 kit is designed for modellers aged 8 and up, providing a faithful depiction of one of the Royal Navy's key warships from the Second World War. The kit includes two paint options, enabling you to replicate specific configurations from the ship's notable wartime service. Part of the Airfix Vintage Classics collection, this plastic model kit combines nostalgia with historical precision, celebrating a classic design from Airfix's storied past. HMS Suffolk was a distinguished County-class heavy cruiser in the Royal Navy during the Second World War. In May 1941, she was instrumental in the Battle of the Denmark Strait and the eventual sinking of the German battleship Bismarck. Suffolk engaged the enemy battleship twice and, with her advanced radar systems, successfully tracked the Bismarck through the Denmark Strait's challenging waters. This vital surveillance allowed Suffolk to maintain contact with the enemy, providing crucial intelligence that enabled other Royal Navy units to intercept Bismarck. The ship's role was pivotal in one of the war's most renowned naval battles, ultimately leading to the demise of Germany's most formidable warship and safeguarding Atlantic convoys from potential threats. Features 1:600 scale model kit with 128 plastic components Skill Level 2 - suitable for modellers aged 8 years and older Includes two genuine paint schemes Recreates HMS Suffolk's 1941 wartime configuration Part of the esteemed Battle of Bismarck series Vintage Classics design honouring Airfix heritage Accurate depiction of a County-class heavy cruiser Specifications Item Length - Without Packaging (cm): 32 Item Width - Without Packaging (cm): 3.2 How many pieces will be found in the box opened by the customer?: 128 Item Scale: 1:600 Scale Contents (what's in the box) sets: Plastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet and decals. Number of Scheme options: 2 Skill Level: 2 Flying Hours: 2

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. A gleaming silver steed to be 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 Bristol Aeroplane Company, the Bulldog was the brainchild of accomplished aircraft designer Frank Barnwell, the man behind the successful Bristol F.2B Fighter of the Great War. It was a light, all-metal, fabric-covered fighter, powered by a 440hp Bristol Jupiter engine. The Bulldog was armed with a pair of forward-firing Vickers 0.303 in machine guns mounted 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. Bristol Bulldog Mk.IIA The Bristol Bulldog was a key British fighter of the inter-war years, designed by Frank Barnwell and powered by a 440 hp Bristol Jupiter engine. Though it never saw combat, it became famous for precision formation flying and aerobatics, showcasing the Royal Air Force’s modern capabilities at airshows across the country. New Parts Include: Wide-track undercarriage with metal wheels and tailwheel Later type tail fin and rudder Optional exhausts with cabin heater and spent cartridge collection bins New cylinder heads to represent the type fitted to the Bristol Jupiter VIIF engine of the Bulldog Mk.IIa New parts for the external oil cooler Decal Options  A05145 - Bristol Bulldog Mk.IIA, No.23 Squadron, Royal Air Force Kenley, England, 1931. (A) A05145 - Bristol Bulldog Mk.IIA, 'C' Flight Commander, No.3 Squadron, Royal Air Force, Abyssinian Crisis, East Africa, 1935. (B) A05145 - Bristol Bulldog Mk.IIA, No.32 Squadron, Royal Air Force Kenley, England, 1935. (C)

To be used in conjunction with A17003 Messerschmitt Bf109G-5/6 Take the hassle out of painting your model kits with Airfix Masking Sets.  Designed for precision and ease, these pre-cut adhesive masks let you achieve sharp paint lines on canopies, clear parts and other tricky areas* —without the stress of freehand work with a brush or using an airbrush. Perfectly tailored to specific Airfix kits, they save you time, improve accuracy, and give your build a professional finish.  Utilising the CAD from the kit design to create the perfect shapes. This Masking Set includes masks for All glazed panels for all screen and canopy options. Glazing internal masks (Not included in the kit) Tail wheel masks Armoured glass panel masks

Arguably the most important Luftwaffe fighter aircraft of the Second World War, The BF109 was designed by Professor Willy Messerschmitt. The prototype first flew in May 1935. After winning a design competition against entries from Arado, Heinkel and Focke-Wulf due to its higher speed and better manoeuvrability, it entered service as the Bf109 A-0 in 1937. Early versions were flown by the Condor Legion in the Spanish Civil War, and the Luftwaffe during the Invasion of Poland. The Bf109 E appeared in late 1938 as the first major update of the design. The Junkers Jumo 210 engine used in the earlier versions was replaced by the larger, more powerful Daimler Benz DB601. The extra heat generated needed improved radiators, which were moved from the nose to the modified and reinforced wings. The Bf109 E became a symbol of the Luftwaffe in the skies over England, dogfighting the RAF’s Spitfires and Hurricanes. During 1940, Messerschmitt engineers were working on the Bf109 F, which featured the DB601E engine and much improved aerodynamics. The wings were reduced in area, with the new rounded wingtips being seen on all subsequent Bf109 variants. The tailplane was redesigned to eliminate the supporting struts, and fuel capacity was increased to extend the range to 1,060 m (1700km). The Bf109 F entered service in October 1940. The DB605 engine was developed to be easier to manufacture than the complex DB601E. Increasing the displacement and compression ratio raised the power output to 1455bhp. The Bf109, when fitted with this engine, became the Bf109 G “Gustav”. The pressurised Bf109 G-1 began production in February 1942, with the non-pressurised Bf109 G-2 following in May 1942. In February 1943, the nose-mounted 7.92mm MG 17 guns were upgraded to the 13mm MG 131, leading to the distinctive bulged engine cowlings of the G-5 and G-6 models. The G-5 and G-6 were the most produced Bf109 variants, with over 12,000 aircraft manufactured. The high-altitude G-5 featured a pressurised cockpit, with an engine driven compressor and sealed canopy glazing.  The Bf109 G could be fitted with two additional MG151/20 cannon in under-wing gondolas, as well as a 300l fuel tank, rockets and bomb racks. Tropical equipment allowed the Bf109 G to serve in the dusty conditions of North Africa. The G-6 first equipped JG 27, 51, 53 and 77 in the Mediterranean theatre, and went on to equip many Luftwaffe fighter units in Western Europe and the Eastern Front, where the highest scoring fighter ace, Erich Hartmann, achieved a claimed 352 aerial kills. Features This impressive 1:24 scale model comes with extensive build options: Model can be built with or without the fully detailed DB605 engine. Engine cowlings and oil cooler can be posed in open or closed position Choice of two types of engine cowlings (MTT and Erla) Canopy can be posed open or closed (two canopy types included) Additional engine and cockpit parts included for G-5 (pressurised cockpit version) Optional 300l fuel tank and wing cannon “Gondolas” Ailerons, elevators and rudder can be offset to add life to the model. Radiator and wing flap position can be customised Many optional parts to suit specific aircraft builds, such as rudder pedals, gunsights, trim wheels, instrument panels, undercarriage wheels/tyres and windscreens Detailed nose armament with machine guns, gun mounts and ammunition boxes included Slide moulding used to allow the capture of fine detail on engine cowlings, fuselage, exhausts and gun barrels Contents Plastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet, masking sheet and decals. Painting Schemes: A17003 - Messerschmitt Bf109G-6/Trop, WNr.15270, Yellow 14+-, 6./JG53, Rammaca, Sicily, Early-July 1943. (A) A17003 - Messerschmitt Bf109G-6/Trop, WNr.15270, Yellow 14, 57th Fighter Group, Pachino, Sicily, Summer 1943. (B) A17003 - Messerschmitt Bf109G-6/Trop, WNr.15270, VX101, No. 1426 Flight, RAF Collyweston, England, April 1944. (C) A17003 - Messerschmitt Bf109G-6, WNr.166224, White 10+-, 4./JG3, Nogent-le-Roi, France, August 1944. (D) A17003 - Messerschmitt Bf109G-5, WNr.27119, Yellow 11+I, 9./JG54, Fw. Emil Hecker, Ludwiglust, Germany, February 1944. (E)

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

The ever-popular Westland Lynx is now available in 1:48 model kit form and is sure to delight more experienced Airfix modellers. With 233 parts and three scheme options, this kit will keep you hobby happy for a while. 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. Specifications Item Length - Without Packaging (cm): 31.6 Item Width - Without Packaging (cm): 26.5 How many pieces will be found in the box opened by the customer?: 233 Item Scale: 1:48 Scale License line: The (Westland Lynx) 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. Contents (what's in the box) sets: Plastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet and decals. Finish: Plastic Number of Scheme options: 3 Skill Level: 4 Flying Hours: 4 Rotorspan (mm): 265

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.

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.

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.

Arguably the most unconventional Fairey-designed aircraft to enter full production, the Gannet was developed to meet a 1945 Royal Navy requirement for an advanced carrier-based turboprop-powered anti-submarine hunter-killer. Intended to counter the recent expansion of the Soviet submarine fleet at the start of the Cold War era, the Gannet was equipped with the last electronic detection equipment and if an enemy submarine was detected, it could be marked, tracked and attacked using bombs, depth charges, rockets and air-launched acoustic torpedoes. It was a highly effective anti-submarine aircraft, able to attack submarines on the surface or submerged. One feature of the Gannet that gave it a unique appearance was its innovative Armstrong Siddeley Double Mamba powerplant. This arrangement saw two gas turbine engines mounted side by side, sharing a common gearbox, but operating independently, each engine driving its own coaxially mounted, contra-rotating propeller. Another unique feature was the bi-folding wing system, designed to allow this large aircraft to be stored aboard relatively small aircraft carriers.

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.

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.