{"title":"British","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"airfix-f-35b-starter-kit","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale F-35B Starter Kit","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAs one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, the Lockheed Martin® F-35B® Lightning® is a fifth generation multi-role combat aircraft designed to dominate the skies, using stealth technologies to operate undetected in hostile airspace, striking at the heart of the enemy, or relaying vital battlefield information to other friendly forces. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe United Kingdom has elected to take the short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) 'B' variant of the F-35, allowing their aircraft to operate from traditional airfields, from the decks of Britain’s two new Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers and should the need arise, from dispersed locations, in much the same way as the famous Harrier previously did. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn British service, the F-35 will not carry the Lightning II denotation, as the new jet is actually the third aircraft in RAF service to carry the name, after the Lockheed P-38 from the Second World War and the famous English Electric Lightning which served throughout the Cold War era.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45339210809658,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A55010","price":18.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a55010_1.jpg?v=1755943404"},{"product_id":"1930-4-5-litre-bentley","title":"Airfix Vintage Classic 1\/12th scale 1930 4.5 litre Bentley","description":"\u003cp\u003eWith its front mounted supercharger, the 4.5 litre Bentley became the quintessential British sports car of the 20s and 30s. It was shaped from the earlier 4-cylinder 3 Litre, but produced substantially more power with its blown engine. As such, it was a stunning road car and a perfect contender for endurance racing. Due to its dramatic appearances at Le Mans and successes in speed trials at the Brooklands circuit, racing and winning became synonymous with Bentley during this period and few other models capture this image as well as the 4.5 litre Bentley. The number 9 car featured in this kit, UU5872, is the original Birkin Team Car known as 'Birkin Blower No. 2'. This is the car that made a dramatic appearance at the 1930 Le Mans 24 Hour Race.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1929, Bentley replaced the 4.5 litre and opted to race the higher capacity Speed 6. Three 'Birkin Blowers' were entered to compete alongside the Bentley Speed 6s at the 1930 Le Mans. In the event, only one Blower, (Birkins own No. 2 car), started the race. Under Walter Owen Bentley's tactical team management, Birkin's role was to draw the Mercedes of Carraciola and Werner into a high speed duel, which he successfully achieved. The Blower lead from the start, swapping the lead with the Mercedes throughout the night, until eventually the German car withdrew with a blown engine. Birkins success came at a cost, as he had to retire after 20 hours with a bent valve, leaving the two Speed 6s to take 1st and 2nd Places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePower: 240bhp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWheelbase: 3 metres\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeight: 1,930kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBentley Motors Limited England. Bentley, the B in wings device and other associated logos and names are trademarks of Bentley Motors Limited. The body designs of Bentley motor cars are protected by Bentley Motors Limited under design, trademark and intellectual property law.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45339251441978,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A20440V","price":99.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a20440v_1930-bentley_artwork.jpg?v=1692427780"},{"product_id":"hobbyboss-1-48th-scale-hawk-t-mk-100-102","title":"HobbyBoss 1\/48th scale Hawk T Mk.100\/102","description":"The BAE Systems Hawk is a British single-engine, jet-powered advanced trainer aircraft. It was first known as the Hawker Siddeley Hawk, and subsequently produced by its successor companies, British Aerospace and BAE Systems. It has been used in a training capacity and as a low-cost combat aircraft.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOperators of the Hawk include the Royal Air Force (notably the Red Arrows display team) and several foreign military operators. The Hawk was produced until 2020 in the UK and also produced under licence in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), with over 1000 Hawks sold to 18 operators around the world.","brand":"Hobbyboss","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46564719264058,"sku":"MMMS-CML-HBB81735","price":36.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/91IzjyRZ7UL._AC_SL1500.jpg?v=1695050963"},{"product_id":"airfix-eurofighter-gift-set","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale Eurofighter Gift Set","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Eurofighter Typhoon is a European multinational twin-engine, canard delta wing, multirole fighter. The Typhoon was designed originally as an air-superiority fighter[5] and is manufactured by a consortium of Airbus, BAE Systems and Leonardo that conducts the majority of the project through a joint holding company, Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH. The NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency, representing the UK, Germany, Italy and Spain, manages the project and is the prime customer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe aircraft's development effectively began in 1983 with the Future European Fighter Aircraft programme, a multinational collaboration among the UK, Germany, France, Italy and Spain. Previously, Germany, Italy and the UK had jointly developed and deployed the Panavia Tornado combat aircraft and desired to collaborate on a new project, with additional participating EU nations. However disagreements over design authority and operational requirements led France to leave the consortium to develop the Dassault Rafale independently. A technology demonstration aircraft, the British Aerospace EAP, first flew on 6 August 1986; a Eurofighter prototype made its maiden flight on 27 March 1994. The aircraft's name, Typhoon, was adopted in September 1998 and the first production contracts were also signed that year.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe sudden end of the Cold War reduced European demand for fighter aircraft and led to debate over the aircraft's cost and work share and protracted the Typhoon's development: the Typhoon entered operational service in 2003 and is now in service with the air forces of Austria, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain, Saudi Arabia and Oman. Kuwait and Qatar have also ordered the aircraft, bringing the procurement total to 623 aircraft as of 2019.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Eurofighter Typhoon is a highly agile aircraft, designed to be an effective dogfighter in combat. Later production aircraft have been increasingly better equipped to undertake air-to-surface strike missions and to be compatible with an increasing number of different armaments and equipment, including Storm Shadow, Brimstone and Marte ER missiles. The Typhoon had its combat debut during the 2011 military intervention in Libya with the UK's Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Italian Air Force, performing aerial reconnaissance and ground-strike missions. The type has also taken primary responsibility for air-defence duties for the majority of customer nations.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46599823884602,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A50098A","price":22.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a50098a_1.jpg?v=1695036106"},{"product_id":"copy-of-airfix-starter-set-pagani-huayra","title":"Airfix 1\/43rd scale Starter Set - Jaguar E-Type","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Jaguar E-Type, or the Jaguar XK-E for the North American market, is a British sports car that was manufactured by Jaguar Cars Ltd between 1961 and 1974. Its combination of aesthetics, high performance, and competitive pricing established the model as an icon of the motoring world. The E-Type's claimed 150 miles per hour (240 km\/h) top speed, sub-7-second 0 to 60 mph (97 km\/h) acceleration, unitary construction, disc brakes, rack-and-pinion steering, and independent front and rear suspension distinguished the car and spurred industry-wide changes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe E-Type was based on Jaguar's D-Type racing car, which had won the 24 Hours of Le Mans for three consecutive years beginning in 1955.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe E-Type employed what was, for the early 1960s, a novel design principle, with a front subframe carrying the engine, front suspension and front bodywork bolted directly to the body tub. No ladder frame chassis, as was common at the time, was needed and as such the first cars weighed only 1,315 kg (2,899 lb).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is rumoured that, on its debut on 15 March 1961, Enzo Ferrari called it \"the most beautiful car ever made\", but this statement is not fully confirmed.[8] In 2004, Sports Car International magazine placed the E-Type at number one on their list of Top Sports Cars of the 1960s. In March 2008, the Jaguar E-Type ranked first in The Daily Telegraph's online list of the world's \"100 most beautiful cars\" of all time. Outside automotive circles, the E-type has featured in the Diabolik comic series, Austin Powers films and the television series Mad Men.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46600098152762,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A55009","price":13.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a55009_1.jpg?v=1695037772"},{"product_id":"airfix-gift-set-aston-martin-dbr9","title":"Airfix 1\/400th scale Starter Set - Mary Rose","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mary Rose was a carrack in the English Tudor navy of King Henry VIII. She was launched in 1511 and served for 33 years in several wars against France, Scotland, and Brittany. After being substantially rebuilt in 1536, she saw her last action on 19 July 1545. She led the attack on the galleys of a French invasion fleet, but sank in the Solent, the strait north of the Isle of Wight.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe wreck of the Mary Rose was located in 1971 and was raised on 11 October 1982 by the Mary Rose Trust in one of the most complex and expensive maritime salvage projects in history. The surviving section of the ship and thousands of recovered artefacts are of great value as a Tudor period time capsule. The excavation and raising of the Mary Rose was a milestone in the field of maritime archaeology, comparable in complexity and cost to the raising of the 17th-century Swedish warship Vasa in 1961. The Mary Rose site is designated under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973 by statutory instrument 1974\/55. The wreck is a Protected Wreck managed by Historic England.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe finds include weapons, sailing equipment, naval supplies, and a wide array of objects used by the crew. Many of the artefacts are unique to the Mary Rose and have provided insights into topics ranging from naval warfare to the history of musical instruments. The remains of the hull have been on display at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard since the mid-1980s while undergoing restoration. An extensive collection of well-preserved artefacts is on display at the Mary Rose Museum, built to display the remains of the ship and its artefacts.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMary Rose was one of the largest ships in the English navy through more than three decades of intermittent war, and she was one of the earliest examples of a purpose-built sailing warship. She was armed with new types of heavy guns that could fire through the recently invented gun-ports. She was substantially rebuilt in 1536 and was also one of the earliest ships that could fire a broadside, although the line of battle tactics had not yet been developed. Several theories have sought to explain the demise of the Mary Rose, based on historical records, knowledge of 16th-century shipbuilding, and modern experiments. The precise cause of her sinking is subject to conflicting testimonies and a lack of conclusive evidence.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46600116568378,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A55114A","price":11.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a55114a_1.jpg?v=1702728129"},{"product_id":"airfix-gift-set-aston-martin-dbr9-1","title":"Airfix 1\/32nd scale Gift Set - Aston Martin DBR9","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Aston Martin DBR9 is a racing car built by Aston Martin Racing, debuting in 2005 and racing actively in international sportscar racing until the end of GT1 category in 2011. The name DBR9 is derived from the original 24 Hours of Le Mans-winning DBR1 car, named for then-owner David Brown, which not only won the 24 Hour race in 1959 but also the World Sportscar title. The car is most famous for taking two LMGT1 class wins at Le Mans 24 Hours (2007 and 2008) by the Aston Martin Racing factory team.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46600117322042,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A50110A","price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a50110a_1.jpg?v=1695036045"},{"product_id":"airfix-gift-set-mini-countryman-wrc","title":"Airfix 1\/32nd scale Gift Set - MINI Countryman WRC","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Mini Countryman WRC is a World Rally Car debuted by the Mini WRC Team during the 2011 World Rally Championship season. It is the first rally car to bear the Mini label in top-level rallying since the 1960s. The car was entered in a limited campaign for 2011, with a view to a complete championship from 2012 and was run by Prodrive, who previously had success with the Subaru Impreza WRC.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe WRC is based on the Mini Countryman and features a direct-injection 1.6 L turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. The WRC's engine was developed by BMW Motorsport for use in a variety of motorsport series, including the FIA World Touring Car Championship.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46600125808954,"sku":"MMMS-GAM-A55304A","price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a55304-front.jpg?v=1695037684"},{"product_id":"airfix-gift-set-jaguar-xkr-gt3","title":"Airfix 1\/32nd scale Gift Set - Jaguar XKR GT3","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe first GT3 iteration of the XKR was developed by Apex Motorsport, which ran these cars in the FIA GT3 European Championship (from 2007 to 2009).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJaguar then had a fairly long run in the Blancpain GT Series, with the Switzerland-based racing outfit Emil Frey Racing fielding multiple Jaguar XK Emil Frey G3 cars. Those were an in-house development by Emil Frey Racing, with approval from Jaguar, that conformed to full FIA GT3 regulations. The car debuted in the 2012 Blancpain Endurance Series and finished its run in the 2018 Blancpain GT Series Endurance Cup. For its farewell season, the car was moved to the Silver Cup and won the championship with the lineup of Alex Fontana, Mikaël Grenier and Adrian Zaugg. It was also third overall in the Endurance Cup Team Rankings. In the previous seasons, the XKRs were run exclusively in the Pro Cup, with the team fielding two cars instead of one in the 2016 and 2017 seasons.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46600134885690,"sku":"MMMS-GAM-A55306A","price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a55306a_1.jpg?v=1695044997"},{"product_id":"airfix-starter-set-jaguar-e-type","title":"Airfix Quickbuild - Jaguar I-Pace eTrophy","description":"","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46600156545338,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-J6033","price":10.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/1268529-38473-35-1080.jpg?v=1792161393"},{"product_id":"airfix-english-electric-lightning-f-2a-gift-set","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale English Electric Lightning F.2A Gift Set","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe English Electric Lightning is a British fighter aircraft that served as an interceptor during the 1960s, the 1970s and into the late 1980s. It was capable of a top speed of above Mach 2. The Lightning was designed, developed, and manufactured by English Electric. After EE merged with other aircraft manufacturers to form British Aircraft Corporation it was marketed as the BAC Lightning. It was operated by the Royal Air Force (RAF), the Kuwait Air Force (KAF), and the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF).\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA unique feature of the Lightning's design is the vertical, staggered configuration of its two Rolls-Royce Avon turbojet engines within the fuselage. The Lightning was designed and developed as an interceptor to defend the airfields of the British \"V bomber\" strategic nuclear force from attack by anticipated future nuclear-armed supersonic Soviet bombers such as what emerged as the Tupolev Tu-22 \"Blinder\", but it was subsequently also required to intercept other bomber aircraft such as the Tupolev Tu-16 (\"Badger\") and the Tupolev Tu-95 (\"Bear\").\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lightning has exceptional rate of climb, ceiling, and speed; pilots have described flying it as \"being saddled to a skyrocket\". This performance and the initially limited fuel supply meant that its missions are dictated to a high degree by its limited range.[5] Later developments provided greater range and speed along with aerial reconnaissance and ground-attack capability. Overwing fuel tank fittings were installed in the F6 variant and gave an extended range, but limited maximum speed to a reported 1,000 miles per hour (1,600 km\/h).\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFollowing retirement by the RAF on 30 April 1988, many of the remaining aircraft became museum exhibits. Until 2009, three Lightnings were kept flying at \"Thunder City\" in Cape Town, South Africa. In September 2008, the Institution of Mechanical Engineers conferred on the Lightning its \"Engineering Heritage Award\" at a ceremony at BAE Systems (the successor to BAC) Warton Aerodrome.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Eurofighter Typhoon is a highly agile aircraft, designed to be an effective dogfighter in combat. Later production aircraft have been increasingly better equipped to undertake air-to-surface strike missions and to be compatible with an increasing number of different armaments and equipment, including Storm Shadow, Brimstone and Marte ER missiles. The Typhoon had its combat debut during the 2011 military intervention in Libya with the UK's Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Italian Air Force, performing aerial reconnaissance and ground-strike missions. The type has also taken primary responsibility for air-defence duties for the majority of customer nations.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46600237252922,"sku":"MMMS-GAM-A55305A","price":22.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a55305a_1.jpg?v=1695037649"},{"product_id":"airfix-cromwell-mk-iv-gift-set","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale Cromwell Mk.IV Gift Set","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Cromwell tank, officially Tank, Cruiser, Mk VIII, Cromwell (A27M), was one of the series of cruiser tanks fielded by Britain in the Second World War. Named after the English Civil War-era military leader Oliver Cromwell, the Cromwell was the first tank put into service by the British to combine high speed from a powerful, reliable engine (the Rolls-Royce Meteor) and reasonable armour. The intended dual-purpose high velocity gun could not be fitted in the turret, so a medium velocity dual purpose gun was fitted instead. Further development of the Cromwell combined with a high velocity gun led to the Comet tank.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe name \"Cromwell\" was initially applied to three vehicles during development. Early Cromwell development led to the creation of the A24 Cavalier. Later Cromwell development led to the creation of the competing Centaur tank (officially the Tank, Cruiser, Mk VIII, Centaur (A27L)). This was closely related to the Cromwell, both vehicles being externally similar. The Cromwell and Centaur tanks differed in the engine used; the Centaur had the 410 hp Liberty engine, the Cromwell had the significantly more powerful 600 hp Meteor; Centaur hulls were converted to Cromwells by changing the engine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Cromwell first saw action in the Battle of Normandy in June 1944. The tank equipped the armoured reconnaissance regiments of the Royal Armoured Corps, in the 7th Armoured Division, 11th Armoured Division and the Guards Armoured Division. While the armoured regiments of the latter two divisions were equipped with M4 Shermans, the armoured regiments of the 7th Armoured Division were equipped with Cromwells. The Centaurs were not used in combat except for those fitted with a 95 mm howitzer, which were used in support of the Royal Marines during the amphibious invasion of Normandy.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46600255406394,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A55109A","price":11.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a55109a_0.jpg?v=1695037621"},{"product_id":"copy-of-airfix-sherman-firefly-starter-set","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale Sherman Firefly Starter Set","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Sherman Firefly was a medium tank used by the United Kingdom and some armoured formations of other Allies in the Second World War. It was based on the US M4 Sherman but was fitted with the more powerful British 76.2 mm (3.00 in) calibre 17-pounder anti-tank gun as its main weapon. Conceived as a stopgap until future British tank designs came into service, the Sherman Firefly became the most common vehicle mounting the 17-pounder in the war.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe British Army made extensive use of Sherman tanks. Though they expected to have their own tank models developed soon, the rejected idea of mounting the 17-pounder in the Sherman was eventually accepted, despite initial government reluctance. This proved fortunate, as the Cruiser Mk VIII Challenger and Cruiser Mk VIII Cromwell tank designs experienced difficulties and delays.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAfter the problem of getting such a large gun to fit in the Sherman's turret was solved, the Firefly was put into production in early 1944, in time to equip the 21st Army Group, commanded by General Bernard Montgomery, for the Normandy landings. It soon became highly valued, as its gun could almost always penetrate the armour of the Panther and Tiger tanks it faced in Normandy, something no other British tank could reliably do.[2] Because the Firefly's barrel was visibly longer than that of a normal 75 mm Sherman, crews tried to countershade camouflage it so the tank would look like a regular Sherman from a distance. Between 2,100 and 2,200 were manufactured before production ended in 1945.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46600268087610,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A55003","price":11.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a55003_1_starter-set-sherman-firefly_pack.jpg?v=1755943404"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-35th-scale-cromwell-mk-iv","title":"Airfix 1\/35th scale Cromwell Mk.IV","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Cromwell tank, officially Tank, Cruiser, Mk VIII, Cromwell (A27M), was one of the series of cruiser tanks fielded by Britain in the Second World War. Named after the English Civil War-era military leader Oliver Cromwell, the Cromwell was the first tank put into service by the British to combine high speed from a powerful, reliable engine (the Rolls-Royce Meteor) and reasonable armour. The intended dual-purpose high velocity gun could not be fitted in the turret, so a medium velocity dual purpose gun was fitted instead. Further development of the Cromwell combined with a high velocity gun led to the Comet tank.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe name \"Cromwell\" was initially applied to three vehicles during development. Early Cromwell development led to the creation of the A24 Cavalier. Later Cromwell development led to the creation of the competing Centaur tank (officially the Tank, Cruiser, Mk VIII, Centaur (A27L)). This was closely related to the Cromwell, both vehicles being externally similar. The Cromwell and Centaur tanks differed in the engine used; the Centaur had the 410 hp Liberty engine, the Cromwell had the significantly more powerful 600 hp Meteor; Centaur hulls were converted to Cromwells by changing the engine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Cromwell first saw action in the Battle of Normandy in June 1944. The tank equipped the armoured reconnaissance regiments of the Royal Armoured Corps, in the 7th Armoured Division, 11th Armoured Division and the Guards Armoured Division. While the armoured regiments of the latter two divisions were equipped with M4 Shermans, the armoured regiments of the 7th Armoured Division were equipped with Cromwells. The Centaurs were not used in combat except for those fitted with a 95 mm howitzer, which were used in support of the Royal Marines during the amphibious invasion of Normandy.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46726549307706,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A1373","price":33.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a1373_1_cromwell-mkiv_pack.jpg?v=1695208740"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-35th-scale-cruiser-mk-viii-a27m-cromwell-mk-vi","title":"Airfix 1\/35th scale Cruiser Mk.VIII A27M Cromwell Mk.VI","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Cromwell tank, officially Tank, Cruiser, Mk VIII, Cromwell (A27M), was one of the series of cruiser tanks fielded by Britain in the Second World War. Named after the English Civil War-era military leader Oliver Cromwell, the Cromwell was the first tank put into service by the British to combine high speed from a powerful, reliable engine (the Rolls-Royce Meteor) and reasonable armour. The intended dual-purpose high velocity gun could not be fitted in the turret, so a medium velocity dual purpose gun was fitted instead. Further development of the Cromwell combined with a high velocity gun led to the Comet tank.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe name \"Cromwell\" was initially applied to three vehicles during development. Early Cromwell development led to the creation of the A24 Cavalier. Later Cromwell development led to the creation of the competing Centaur tank (officially the Tank, Cruiser, Mk VIII, Centaur (A27L)). This was closely related to the Cromwell, both vehicles being externally similar. The Cromwell and Centaur tanks differed in the engine used; the Centaur had the 410 hp Liberty engine, the Cromwell had the significantly more powerful 600 hp Meteor; Centaur hulls were converted to Cromwells by changing the engine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Cromwell first saw action in the Battle of Normandy in June 1944. The tank equipped the armoured reconnaissance regiments of the Royal Armoured Corps, in the 7th Armoured Division, 11th Armoured Division and the Guards Armoured Division. While the armoured regiments of the latter two divisions were equipped with M4 Shermans, the armoured regiments of the 7th Armoured Division were equipped with Cromwells. The Centaurs were not used in combat except for those fitted with a 95 mm howitzer, which were used in support of the Royal Marines during the amphibious invasion of Normandy.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46726659670330,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A1374","price":32.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A1374_1_CROMWELL-MkVI_PACK_1.jpg?v=1695209228"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-35th-scale-ferret-scout-car-mk-2","title":"Airfix 1\/35th scale Ferret Scout Car Mk.2","description":"The Ferret armoured car, also commonly called the Ferret scout car, is a British armoured fighting vehicle designed and built for reconnaissance purposes. The Ferret was produced between 1952 and 1971 by the UK company Daimler. It was widely used by regiments in the British Army, as well as the RAF Regiment and Commonwealth countries throughout the period.","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46726702629178,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A1379","price":22.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A1379-FERRET-SCOUT-CAR-Mk-2-Size-50-FRONT.jpg?v=1695209387"},{"product_id":"tamiya-1-72nd-scale-f-35a","title":"Tamiya 1\/72nd scale F-35A","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is an American family of single-seat, single-engine, all-weather stealth multirole combat aircraft that is intended to perform both air superiority and strike missions. It is also able to provide electronic warfare and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. Lockheed Martin is the prime F-35 contractor, with principal partners Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems. The aircraft has three main variants: the conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) F-35A, the short take-off and vertical-landing (STOVL) F-35B, and the carrier-based (CV\/CATOBAR) F-35C.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe aircraft descends from the Lockheed Martin X-35, which in 2001 beat the Boeing X-32 to win the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program. Its development is principally funded by the United States, with additional funding from program partner countries from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and close U.S. allies, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Italy, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, and formerly Turkey. Several other countries have also ordered, or are considering ordering, the aircraft. The program has drawn much scrutiny and criticism for its unprecedented size, complexity, ballooning costs, and much-delayed deliveries. The acquisition strategy of concurrent production of the aircraft while it was still in development and testing led to expensive design changes and retrofits.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe F-35 first flew in 2006 and entered service with the U.S. Marine Corps F-35B in July 2015, followed by the U.S. Air Force F-35A in August 2016 and the U.S. Navy F-35C in February 2019. The aircraft was first used in combat in 2018 by the Israeli Air Force. The U.S. plans to buy 2,456 F-35s through 2044, which will represent the bulk of the crewed tactical aviation of the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps for several decades; the aircraft is planned to be a cornerstone of NATO and U.S.-allied air power and to operate until 2070\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tamiya","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46727081853242,"sku":"MMMS-THC-T60792","price":36.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/tam60792_1.jpg?v=1695211783"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-westland-sea-king","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Westland Sea King HAS.1\/HAS.5\/HU.5","description":"The Westland WS-61 Sea King is a British licence-built version of the American Sikorsky S-61 helicopter of the same name, built by Westland Helicopters. The aircraft differs considerably from the American version, with Rolls-Royce Gnome engines (derived from the US General Electric T58), British-made anti-submarine warfare systems and a fully computerised flight control system. The Sea King was primarily designed for performing anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions. A Sea King variant known as the Commando was developed by Westland to serve as a troop transport.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn British service, the Westland Sea King provided a wide range of services in both the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force. As well as wartime roles in the Falklands War, the Gulf War, the Bosnian War, the Iraq War and the Afghanistan War, the Sea King is perhaps most well known in its capacity as a Royal Navy Search and Rescue (red and grey livery) and RAF Search and Rescue Force (yellow livery) helicopter. The Sea King was also adapted to meet the Royal Navy's requirement for a ship-based airborne early warning platform.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOn 26 September 2018, the last remaining Sea King variant in Royal Navy service was retired. Most operators have replaced, or are planning to replace, the Sea King with more modern helicopters, such as the NHIndustries NH90 and the AgustaWestland AW101. HeliOperations continue to operate three Mk 5 Sea Kings, based at RNAS Portland, training German Navy pilots.","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46727335182650,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A11006","price":54.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a11006_1.jpg?v=1695212247"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-35th-scale","title":"Airfix 1\/35th scale WWII British Army 30-cwt 4x2 GS Truck","description":"\u003cp\u003eAs Britain prepared for war in the late 1930s, the military weren't just desperately in need of vast numbers of aircraft, tanks and guns, they also needed many thousands of trucks and general utility vehicles to support all kinds of operations. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ability to effectively supply modern, mechanized armies with the huge amounts of fuel, ammunition, food and other commodities they would need was crucial to the success of any military campaign and as the speed of war increased, so these supply lines began to lengthen. Rugged, reliable and adaptable, these trucks would have a vital role to play in the coming conflict.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46728329691450,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A1380","price":32.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a1380_1.jpg?v=1695215980"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-35th-scale-austin-k2-y-ambulance","title":"Airfix 1\/35th scale Austin K2\/Y Ambulance","description":"\u003cp\u003eSome of the most important military vehicles of the Second World War didn't feature huge main guns, neither were they bedecked with ever thicker armour plating, but are no less fascinating to study. One of the most crucial abilities on any battlefield is to be able to transport your wounded troops quickly and efficiently from the front line, to field medical stations some distance behind the fighting, where they could receive the medical attention they needed and potentially save their lives. Although clearly any vehicle could be used for this task, a dedicated ambulance would often allow the wounded to start receiving care straight away and if you were ever in need of one's services, you would no doubt class these as the most important vehicles on the battlefield.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most famous vehicles of its type, the Austin K2\/Y Ambulance was used extensively by British and Commonwealth forces throughout WWII, both in the combat zones of the world and on the home front. Built around the chassis of the Austin K30 light truck, the casualty compartment was developed in conjunction with the Royal Army Medical Corps and therefore proved to be highly functional. Able to carry either four stretcher cases or ten seated casualties, one of the main reasons why the K2\/Y was so successful was because it was so rugged and reliable, requiring only a minimum of maintenance - an ambulance should always be ready when you need it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rear cabin was typically constructed of painted canvas on a timber frame, with the highly visible red cross on a white disk positioned prominently on all sides to hopefully ensure the vehicles occupants didn't come under fire. Once the K2\/Y had delivered its latest casualty load to the field station, it would invariably head straight back into the combat zone, at speeds on open roads approaching 50 mph.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn extremely popular vehicle with British, Commonwealth and American troops, the Austin K2\/Y was viewed as something as an angel on the troops shoulders. Hopefully, they would never need to see the inside of the ambulance, but if they did 'Katy' would be ready and waiting for them. With over 13,000 examples built, these would have been a familiar sight on the battlefields of the world and it is thought that around fifty examples still survive to this day, some having undergone restoration back to something close to their original wartime configuration.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46728736964922,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A1375","price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a1375_0.jpg?v=1695216332"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-gloster-gladiatort-mk-i-mk-ii","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd Scale Gloster Gladiator Mk.I\/Mk.II","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Aircraft:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Gloster Gladiator was developed from the Gloster Gauntlet as a private venture, and represented both the peak and the end of the biplane fighter. In many air arms it smoothed the transition to monoplane fighters, and in confronting aircraft of its own era it performed well. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Model:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSuch a high-performing and equally eye-catching aircraft has well and truly deserved a spot in your Airfix collection. With two choices of livery to choose from and complete with sprues and decals, the Gloster Gladiator Mk.I\/Mk.II airfix model kit is a worthy addition, not to mention a fantastic gift for military enthusiastst and model makers alike.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46778035732794,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A02052B","price":11.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/1524113-14477-58-1080.jpg?v=1792161614"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-hawker-typhoon-mk-ib","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd Scale Hawker Typhoon Mk.IB","description":"\u003cp class=\"heading--3\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Aircraft:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBy 1943 the RAF needed a dedicated ground attack fighter, and the Typhoon was suited to the role. The powerful engine allowed the aircraft to carry a load of up to two 1,000lb (454kg) bombs. From September 1943, Typhoons could also be armed with four, eight or in some cases even 12 \"60lb\" RP-3 rockets. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Model:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrom its reliability and enging power to the two impressive livery schemes, the Typhoon has it all! Measuring 134mm and containing 74 pieces per kit, the Airfix Typhoon model will make a fantastic addition to any collection for model makers and military enthusiasts alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid grid--1-col@medium\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid__item grid__item--60\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46778335592762,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A02041A","price":11.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a02041a_hawker-typhoon-mkib_pack_web.jpg?v=1695464119"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-hawker-typhoon-mk-ib-gift-set","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd Scale Hawker Typhoon Mk.IB Gift Set","description":"\u003cp class=\"heading--3\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Aircraft:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBy 1943 the RAF needed a dedicated ground attack fighter, and the Typhoon was suited to the role. The powerful engine allowed the aircraft to carry a load of up to two 1,000lb (454kg) bombs. From September 1943, Typhoons could also be armed with four, eight or in some cases even 12 \"60lb\" RP-3 rockets. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Model:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrom its reliability and enging power to the two impressive livery schemes, the Typhoon has it all! Measuring 134mm and containing 74 pieces per kit, the Airfix Typhoon model will make a fantastic addition to any collection for model makers and military enthusiasts alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid grid--1-col@medium\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid__item grid__item--60\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46778492518714,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A55208A","price":16.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a55208a_1.jpg?v=1695464177"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-avro-vulcan-b-2","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale Avro Vulcan B.2","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"grid__item grid__item--60\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOccupying 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterestingly, 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 Britains 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeveloped 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46804561133882,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A12011","price":68.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A12011_1_AVRO-VULCAN-B2_PACK.jpg?v=1695828857"},{"product_id":"copy-of-airfix-1-48th-scale-westland-sea-king-has-1-has-5-hu-5","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Westland Lynx HMA8\/Mk.88A\/Mk.90B","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Westland Lynx is a British multi role helicopter that has seen service in both land based army forms as well as ship based naval variants. Entering service in 1977, the Lynx has since seen many upgrades and improvements throughout its service history. The Mk8 naval variant entered service with the Royal Navy in the early 1990s and has since gone on to provide them with an excellent maritime attack helicopter, performing well in the anti-submarine role as well as search and rescue and more recently anti-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia. Fiercely armed with either missiles, depth charges or a heavy machine gun the Lynx is a formidable machine and is more than capable of taking on the best of the world's surface vessels as well as any potential underwater threat.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46804628767034,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A10107A","price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a10107a_1.jpg?v=1696509284"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-avro-lancaster-b-iii-special-the-dambusters","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale Avro Lancaster B.III (SPECIAL) 'THE DAMBUSTERS'","description":"\u003cp\u003eFollowing a short but intense period of training, the volunteer group of crack airmen who made up the new RAF No.617 Squadron took off from RAF Scampton on the night of 16th\/17th May 1943, at the start of the most audacious bombing raid in history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by their enigmatic and inspirational commanding officer Guy Gibson, he is reputed to have said, 'This squadron will either make history, or it will be completely wiped out', but nevertheless, every man was determined to play their part in this historic raid. Nineteen 'Special' Lancaster's and their crews sent a message to the German nation that could not be disguised by their propaganda ministers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46804661535034,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A109007A","price":42.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A09007_1_Avro-Lancaster-BIII_PACK.jpg?v=1695828783"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-gloster-meteor-f-8-korea","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Gloster Meteor F.8 Korea","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn many respects, the Gloster Meteor could be regarded as Britain's jet powered equivalent of the Spitfire, the first of a new breed of fighter which would go on to patrol Britain's skies for many years following its squadron introduction in July 1944. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe later F.8 variant was arguably the most effective version of the Meteor and for the five years following its introduction, it would form the backbone of the Britain's fighter defence force. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 1,183 aircraft built, the F.8 was both the final single seat fighter variant of the Meteor and the most heavily produced, arguably making this one of the most important British aircraft of the post war era.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46804692959546,"sku":"MMMS-AHM-A09184","price":42.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A09184_Gloster_Meteor_F8_3D_Box.jpg?v=1696507935"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-bristol-blenheim-mk-1","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Avro Anson Mk.I","description":"\u003cp\u003eAlthough not generally regarded as one of the most fashionable British aircraft to see service during the Second World War, the Avro Anson was nevertheless one of the most important aircraft not only of the inter-war years, but also during WWII itself and is deserving of more recognition than it usually receives. An aircraft which began its development in 1933 as a high speed, long range, modern mail carrying charter aircraft, the Avro 652 was still in development when the British Air Ministry issued a requirement for a twin engined, general reconnaissance and multi-role aircraft capable of performing a variety of roles for both the Royal Air force and the Royal Navy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Avro team felt that their new aircraft would be perfect for the role and later entered it in an official evaluation programme with the competitor de Havilland DH89M, the military version of their biplane Dragon Rapide. The Avro design was found to possess greater range and endurance and whilst not without a few areas which would require some design modifications, an initial order for 174 militarised aircraft was placed. The Avro 652 would be given the name Anson after an Eighteenth Century British Admiral of the fleet, a development which did not please everyone at the Air Ministry, but as the aircraft was intended to undertake maritime patrols, the name did seem rather appropriate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHighlighting the importance of the Avro Anson as a British aircraft type, when it entered service with No.48 Squadron at RAF Manston in March 1936, it became the first monoplane type to achieve squadron service status, but was also the first RAF aircraft to feature a retractable undercarriage. At this time, the advanced Anson quickly began to attract attention from several other countries and in order to capitalise on this interest, some aircraft were diverted from existing RAF orders to fulfil these requirements, with full production forcing Avro to open new manufacturing facilities in the North West of England. The RAF Anson Mk.I was equipped with a fixed forward firing .303 machine gun operated by the pilot and a single Lewis gun mounted in the manually traversed dorsal turret. It could also be equipped with a modest bomb load, something which was required by submarine hunting aircraft operated by Coastal Command and whilst there were no reports of an Anson sinking a U-Boat, their presence would keep these feared hunters submerged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the Dunkirk evacuations, Ansons used to cover the operation came under attack by Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighters, which had real difficulty engaging the slow flying British aircraft. Consistently overshooting the Ansons, they came in the sights of the aircraft's forward firing gun and astonishingly, two of the Luftwaffe fighters were shot down and a third was badly damaged, with all the Ansons escaping from the engagement unscathed. Despite the fact that the RAF entered the Second World War with 26 squadrons equipped with Avro Ansons, they were basically obsolete as a fighting machine and particularly for the ones assigned to Bomber Command, they were quickly withdrawn to secondary training roles, a task for which the 'Faithfull Annie' was particularly well suited. As part of the Empire Air Training Scheme, many thousands of aircrew destined for service with Bomber Command were trained both in the UK and overseas, including those destined to serve in the Avro Lancaster, the mighty bomber which was produced in some of the same factories previously used to produce Ansons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith just under 11,000 Ansons eventually produced, the final RAF example was only withdrawn from service as a station communications aircraft in 1968.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46804809974074,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A09191","price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a09191_1g__75943.jpg?v=1696501917"},{"product_id":"copy-of-airfix-1-48th-scale-bristol-blenheim-mk-i","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Bristol Blenheim Mk.I","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhen the first Bristol Blenheim Mk.I light bomber entered Royal Air Force service with No.114 Squadron at Wyton in March 1937, they not only replaced the squadrons Hawker Hind biplane bombers, but also pointed to the future of a new, modern air force. Capable of speeds approaching 100 mph faster than its predecessor, the Blenheim was the most capable light\/medium bomber in the world at that time and would be the benchmark for all future aircraft designs, including those it would soon be forced to meet in combat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the early months of WWII, Blenheim crews would carry a heavy burden of strike operations against enemy targets, both from bases in the UK and in France as part of the Advanced Air Striking Force and British Expeditionary Force. Being relatively lightly armed and with constant equipment additions increasing the aircrafts weight, the Blenheim was no match for the modern fighters of the Luftwaffe and despite the heroic actions of a great many Allied pilots, the RAF suffered significant losses during this period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e68.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46804831273274,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A09190","price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A09190_1_Bristol-Blenheim-Mk1_PACK.jpg?v=1696502055"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-bristol-blenheim-mk-i","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Hawker Hunter FGA.9\/FR.10\/GA.11","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"grid__item grid__item--60\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProving the old adage 'If it looks right, then it is right', the Hawker Hunter was a thing of aviation beauty, streamlined and cultured, but a deadly fighting aeroplane at heart. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderlining 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. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStrengthening the 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 Hunter FGA.9s would see service with home based and overseas squadrons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid__item grid__item--40\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section section--default\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"container\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46804837531962,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A09192","price":42.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A09192_1.jpg?v=1696508010"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-avro-lancaster-b-ii","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale Avro Lancaster B.III","description":"\u003cp\u003eAs the third of Britain's four engined heavy bombers to enter RAF service during WWII, the Avro Lancaster proved to be an exceptional aircraft, possessing a large unobstructed bomb bay, which allowed it to carry some of the largest bombs of the war. At least thirty five Lancasters managed to complete an astonishing 100 missions or more and are referred to by historians and enthusiasts as the Lancaster Centurions, an exclusive group of extremely hard working bombers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScheme 1: R5868 S-Sugar 467 Squadron RAAF.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScheme 2: LM624 57 Squadron.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810865860922,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A08013A","price":38.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A08013A_Avro-Lancaster-BIII_Box-Front.jpg?v=1695829439"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-vickers-wellington-mk-ii","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale Vickers Wellington Mk.II","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe most capable medium bomber of the day was the twin-engine Vickers Wellington, which first flew in 1936 and entered RAF service with No.99 Squadron at Mildenhall in October 1938. The production aircraft bore little resemblance to the prototype aircraft and compared to contemporary medium bombers already in service, the Wellington appeared to be much more advanced in design and an aircraft feared by any potential enemy. Its sleek monoplane design and heavy defensive armament placed the new Wellington as one the advanced and capable medium bombers in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerhaps the most significant feature of the Wellingtons design was the adoption of a geodetic construction method, which was developed by famous British engineer and inventor Barnes Wallis. Duralumin W-beams were used to form a metal lattice-work construction on to which wooden battens would be screwed, which would then allow the doped fabric outer skin of the aircraft to be attached. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe resultant fuselage was relatively light in weight but possessed great strength and whilst the method o construction posed challenged for companies engaged in manufacturing Wellington bombers, the inherent strength proved crucial when the aircraft was thrust into combat. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCapable of withstanding significant battle damage, numerous RAF Wellingtons managed to bring their crews back home, when the other bombers would have failed to do so.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46811028193594,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A08021","price":38.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A08021_1_VICKERS-WELLINGTON-M-II_PACK.jpg?v=1695828642"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-mcdonnell-douglas-phantom-fg-1-fgr-2","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale McDonnell Douglas Phantom FG.1\/FGR.2","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith the RAF already operating Phantoms initially intended for the Royal Navy at Leuchars air base in Fife, the withdrawal of HMS Ark Royal in 1978 meant that they also inherited the rest of the Fleet Air Arm Phantom fleet. Nos 43 and 111 Squadrons would use the Phantom FG.1 to defend Britains airspace until 1989, when they both converted to the BAe Tornado F.3.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842363117882,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A06019A","price":31.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A06019A_1.jpg?v=1695831354"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-blackburn-buccaneer-s-2-gulf-war","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale Blackburn Buccaneer S.2B GULF WAR","description":"\u003cp\u003eDuring RAF air operations in the Gulf War of 1991, the effectiveness of Iraqi anti-aircraft defences resulted in Tornado and Jaguar strike missions having to be flown at higher altitudes, thus reducing their effectiveness. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey needed the support of the RAF's ageing Blackburn Buccaneer jets with their 'Pave Spike' laser designator equipment to deliver ‘smart’ munitions effectively, the only trouble was, these aircraft were back at their home base in Scotland. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe race was on to prepare and fly twelve Buccaneers in newly applied 'Desert Camouflage' and their laser designator equipment to the Persian Gulf and in just a matter of days, the self-titled 'Sky Pirates' were on their way.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842400178490,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A06022A","price":31.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A06022A_1.jpg?v=1695829901"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-supermarine-seafire-f-xvii","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Supermarine Seafire F.XVII","description":"\u003cp\u003eBrace yourself for a stealthily guarded FAA revelation!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA masterpiece of the skies, and now your Airfix workbench, the Supermarine Seafire returns to our range after a ten-year absence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe XVII was the first of the Seafire variants to feature a cut-down rear fuselage and distinctive teardrop-style canopy. The aircraft could carry a heavier weapons load thanks to reinforced construction, with both fuel tanks and rockets under the wings. This plane flew on the frontline until the early 1950s when it downgraded to training duties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Navy’s answer to the ever-popular Spitfire, this masterpiece astounded the world with its unrivalled performance in the most demanding of conditions. It effortlessly operated from aircraft carriers, making it a formidable presence over land and sea. Folding wings allowed it to take off swiftly and land on the decks of naval vessels, extending its reach and influence over the ocean.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe awe-inspiring design ensured agility and speed, boasting sleek, aerodynamic contours radiating elegance and boosting manoeuvrability. This machine reached top speeds of approximately 378 miles per hour (608km\/h), giving pilots an unyielding advantage.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842425016634,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A06102A","price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a06102a_1.jpg?v=1696508634"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-de-havilland-vampire-f-3","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale de Havilland Vampire F.3","description":"\u003cp\u003eWith the magnificent de Havilland Mosquito only just entering Royal Air Force service towards the end of 1941, designers at the company were next asked to turn their attentions to developing a new jet engine, one which was capable of powering a new generation of high speed fighter aircraft. Entrusted to the brilliant mind of engine designer Frank Halford, he was determined that his engine would be less complicated and of simpler design than the one being developed by his rival, Frank Whittle and he was ready to test his engine by April 1942. Showing great promise and producing the intended level of thrust, the only thing to do now was to see how it performed in the air.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt a time when jet engine technology was still in its infancy and these early engines were both a little lacking in power and slow to respond to power input commands, de Havilland's decision to produce their first jet aircraft as a single engined design was a brave one and placed great faith in the performance of their new jet engine. The diminutive new aircraft was initially designated de Havilland DH.100 'Spider Crab', with this codename used to mask the secret nature of the aircraft's development. Constructed around the new de Havilland Goblin 1 turbojet, the aircraft featured a relatively short, egg shaped central fuselage nacelle and employed a unique twin-boom tail configuration for control stability which allowed the engine'â„¢s thrust to egress directly from the central fuselage. With a requirement to take the pressure off the wartime aviation industry, this experimental aircraft had to be constructed of both wood and metal and it is interesting to note that the majority of the fuselage employed the same laminated plywood construction the company had perfected during Mosquito production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnfortunately for the de Havilland team working on the new jet, their Mosquito was proving to be such a war winner that this experimental project was deemed of lesser importance than producing Mosquitos, probably rightly so for Britain's war effort. To rub salt into this aviation wound, the first flight of the aircraft would be further delayed for an unbelievable reason - the only serviceable jet engine was ordered to be sent to America to help with the advancement of their own jet powered project. Mosquito production priority and a series of unforeseen delays eventually dictated that the Gloster Meteor's development outpaced that of its de Havilland competitor, with the Meteor taking the honour of being Britain's first jet aircraft to enter service and the only Allied jet of WWII.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaking its first flight on 20th September 1943, de Havilland DH.100 'Spider Crab' LZ548\/G took off from the company's Hatfield airfield in the hands of chief test pilot Geoffrey de Havilland Jr. Interestingly, the 'G' used in the identification code highlights the secret nature of the project and required that the aircraft must be guarded at all times whilst on the ground. This first flight lasted just over 30 minutes, during which time the aircraft exceeded 400mph and showed great promise, however, it would be April 1945 before a production aircraft would take to the air, by which time the new jet fighter had been christened the Vampire. Despite its protracted development, Britain's second jet fighter to enter service would prove to be something of a classic and is now regarded as one of the most successful early jet aircraft in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Vampire F.Mk.I entered Royal Air Force service in March 1946, to be followed by the revised and more capable F.3 just two years later. The Vampire F.3 was basically a longer range version of its predecessor, featuring increased internal fuel capacity and the ability to carry two external fuel tanks. This latest variant also differed visually, in that it incorporated taller and more rounded vertical stabilisers, a lowered horizontal stabiliser and distinctive 'acorn' fairings at the base of each vertical stabiliser. Although this was still relatively new technology, de Havilland cleverly designed the aircraft to be simple to maintain and operate, earning the aircraft an enviable reputation for reliability amongst air and ground crews alike and allowing more pilots to safely make the transition to jet powered flight. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a number of significant firsts to its name, the Vampire was the first RAF aircraft to exceed 500 mph, with the extra range of the F.3 allowing this to be the first jet fighter to cross the Atlantic. The Vampire F.3's of No.32 Squadron were also the first RAF jet fighters to be deployed outside Northwest Europe and the first to operate in the higher temperatures of the Mediterranean. Without doubt, the de Havilland Vampire has to be considered one of the most important early jet fighters in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842439991610,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A06107","price":31.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A06107_1_de-havilland-vampire-f3.jpg?v=1696507807"},{"product_id":"copy-of-airfix-1-48th-scale-de-havilland-vampire-fb-5-fb-9","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale de Havilland Vampire FB.5\/FB.9","description":"\u003cp\u003eAlthough historically in the shadow of the Gloster Meteor, the de Havilland Vampire may have been the second jet fighter to enter Royal Air Force service, but was a hugely significant aircraft in its own right. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first RAF aircraft capable of exceeding 500mph, the Vampire was also the first single-engined jet-powered aircraft to cross the Atlantic Ocean, marking it as one of the most important of the world's early jets. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe FB.5 fighter bomber was the most important variant of the aircraft with 1123 aircraft built and 930 seeing service with the Royal Air Force - those destined for service overseas were designated FB.9 and had cockpit air conditioning.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842451722554,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A06108","price":31.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a06108_1.jpg?v=1696507881"},{"product_id":"copy-of-airfix-1-48th-scale-spitfire-mk-vb","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb","description":"\u003cp\u003eIllustrating the strength and adaptability of its basic design, the Supermarine Spitfire saw constant development throughout the Second World War, with over 20,000 aircraft eventually being produced in 24 different marks. The Mark V variant was actually something of a stop-gap upgrade from the aircraft which fought during the Battle of Britain, but with 6,487 produced, it would prove to be the most heavily produced mark of Spitfire.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842615136570,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A05125A","price":26.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A05125A_1_Supermarine-Spitfire-MkVb_PACK.jpg?v=1696508944"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-spitfire-mk-1-a","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Supermarine Spitfire Mk.1 a","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Supermarine Spitfire was, by 1940, the interceptor of choice for Fighter Command. It was capable of speeds of over 360mph and had exceptional manoeuvrability. An excellent dog-fighter, the Spitfire Mark I is 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.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842635682106,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A05126A","price":27.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A05126A_Supermarine-Spitfire-MkI_BOX-FRONT.jpg?v=1696508855"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-hawker-hurricane-mk-1","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Hawker Hurricane Mk.1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Hawker Hurricane was the RAFs most vital fighter in the early years of WWII. These tough, partly fabric covered monoplane fighters put in a valiant defence against the numerically superior Luftwaffe during the Blitzkrieg. Although slower than the Messerschmitt Bf109, and with a less destructive armament, the Hurricane was able to turn tighter and absorb considerable punishment.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842661077306,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A05127A","price":27.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A05127A_Hawker-Hurricane-MkI_BOX-FRONT.jpg?v=1696508122"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-hawker-hurricane-mk-i-tropical","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Hawker Hurricane Mk.I Tropical","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe rugged and reliable Hawker Hurricane was arguably the most important fighter aircraft available to the Royal Air Force at the beginning of WWII. Easier to produce and more forgiving to fly than the more glamorous Spitfire, the Hurricane was available in much greater numbers than any other fighter at the time of the Battle of Britain and proved decisive in securing eventual victory for the pilots of the RAF.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEarly RAF operations in the Mediterranean and North Africa saw small numbers of Hurricane Mk.I fighters pitted against vastly superior numbers of Regia Aeronautica aircraft. They proved to be more than a match for anything the Italian Air Force could hurl at them, but the arrival of battle hardened Luftwaffe fighters in 1941 saw a change in fortunes. Many of the Hurricanes were 'tropicalised' and arrived in theatre with the chin mounted Vokes carburettor dust filter, which significantly altered the profile of the Hawker fighter.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842675659066,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A05129","price":26.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A05129_Hawker_Hurricane_MK1_Tropical_3D_Box.jpg?v=1696508152"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-boulton-paul-defiant-mk-1","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Boulton Paul Defiant Mk.1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAs the least effective of the RAFs interceptor fighters at the start of the Battle of Britain, it is interesting to note that the Boulton Paul Defiant actually entered service much later than either the Spitfire or Hurricane, but was quickly relegated to nightfighter operations when it became obvious the extra weight of the power operated turret made the aircraft a relatively easy target for Luftwaffe fighters.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842719928634,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A05128A","price":26.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A05128A_Bolton-Paul-Defiant-MkI_BOX-FRONT.jpg?v=1696502005"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-supermarine-spitfire-fr-mk-xiv-1","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale Supermarine Spitfire F Mk.XVIII","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA variant of this famous fighting aeroplane which was the result of a desire to produce a 'Super Spitfire', the F Mk.XVIII was a further refinement of the Rolls Royce Griffon powered Mk.XIV, but one which incorporated a number of improvements over its predecessor. In addition to several cockpit enhancements for the pilot, the F Mk.XVIII also benefitted from increased fuel carrying capacity and strengthened wings, allowing it to carry either rockets or bombs in addition to its cannon and machine gun armament. With a total production run or 300 aircraft, the RAF would receive two versions of this fighter, the F.Mk.XVIII fitted with the standard E wing and the FR.Mk.XVIII, which included a camera for photo reconnaissance work. Too late to see service during WWII, these powerful Spitfires did see action as part of 'Operation Firedog' and actions against Communist guerrillas during the Malayan Emergency.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842738737466,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A05140","price":26.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A05140_1.jpg?v=1696508794"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-wwii-bomber-resupply-set","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale WWII RAF Bomber Resupply Set","description":"\u003cp\u003eAs the air war over occupied Europe progressively developed, so did the equipment used by the RAF and its Bomber Command. Specialist vehicles were introduced to supply arms and equipment to waiting machines and maintenance tasks were made easier through the introduction of specialised equipment. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mechanization of these tasks and duties is well represented in this set. While not as glamorous as their flying counterparts, the contribution played by trucks, tractors, and vans, as well as the men that crewed them, cannot be forgotten, or underestimated.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46842807058746,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A05330","price":26.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/a05330_0.jpg?v=1696509545"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-fairey-swordfish-mk-i","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale Fairey Swordfish Mk.I","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEighty years ago, six Fairey Swordfish torpedo bombers flew from RAF Manston to attack the three German capital ships Scharnhorst, Gneisenau and Prinz Eugen making a dash up the English Channel in February 1942. This heroic attack was doomed to failure and all the Swordfish were shot down without any damage to the enemy ships. 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Able to fly higher, faster and for longer, these latest reconnaissance Mosquitoes could go anywhere and see everything and the Germans hated them. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSpecialist Luftwaffe units were established specifically to challenge Mosquito reconnaissance incursions, however, it wasn't until the introduction of rocket and jet-powered aircraft that they had much hope of success. Even then, Mosquito crews were well-versed in evading interception and continued to bring home their vital tactical imagery.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46843218592058,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A04065","price":23.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A04065_1.jpg?v=1695830657"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-gloster-meteor-f-8","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale Gloster Meteor F.8","description":"\u003cp\u003eAs the world watched in awe as the first jet powered aircraft appeared in the skies over Europe towards the end of WWII, capable of attaining speeds over 100 mph faster than the latest piston engined fighters, it is interesting to note that development work on jet propulsion actually started in the 1930s, with engineers in both Britain and Germany searching for the next generation of engine power. Indeed, the first flight of a turbojet powered aircraft actually took place just days before the outbreak of the Second World War, however, conflict would necessitate the production of thousands of aircraft powered by existing piston technology, so jet powered advancement proved to be relatively slow. In Britain, brilliant engineer Frank Whittle produced a viable turbojet engine and when the powerplant was installed in the Gloster E28\/39 Pioneer for its first flight on 15th May 1941, it became the first British jet powered aircraft to fly - the race was now on to produce the first jet fighter for the Royal Air Force.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConducted under the strictest security, the Gloster Aircraft Company prepared their new twin engined jet fighter for flight testing, but on test flight days, all non-essential personnel would be dismissed from the airfield and local police would close the surrounding roads to stop prying eyes discovering this closely guarded aviation secret. If anyone did catch a glimpse of this strange new aircraft in the air, they would have no doubt wondered where the propellers were and why did it sound so strange? By the summer of 1944, the secret was out and as No.616 Squadron prepared to take the Gloster Meteor F.1 to war from its base at RAF Manston, the Royal Air Force had their first jet fighter and a new era for British aviation had begun.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBritain's first jet fighter was still quite a primitive design and the reason it proceeded as a twin engined aircraft was down to the fact that these early jet were not overly powerful and rather slow to respond to the pilot's power input requests, so the use of two engines seemed practical. The view from the cockpit was however superb, with no propeller to obscure the pilots view and plenty of power available once the aircraft was up to speed. Undergoing almost constant development, the early marks of Meteor were all based around the first aircraft to enter service, however, the service arrival of the F.8 variant in 1950 saw the Meteor maturing into a truly exceptional early jet, one which would not only see service with the RAF, but also with several other air arms across the world. Slightly longer than its predecessors, the F.8 featured uprated engines, greater fuel capacity and the inclusion of an ejector seat. To counter some instability issues discovered during development, the new aircraft also featured a redesigned tail unit, something which really serves to identify this later mark of Meteor.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFor five years following the squadron introduction of the Meteor F.8, the aircraft formed the backbone of the RAF's fighter defence force, a jet powered equivalent to the Spitfire's which patrolled Britain's skies during the Battle of Britain just ten years earlier.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46843237302586,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A04064","price":22.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A04064-GLOSTER-METEOR-F8-Size-35-FRONT.jpg?v=1695831147"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-english-electric-lightning-f2a","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale English Electric Lightning F2A","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe F2 introduced in 1962 was much modified in 1968 producing the F2A with square cut fin, kinked leading edges and enlarged ventral tank which gave an enhanced combat air patrol time of some 2 hours.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46843244020026,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A04054A","price":23.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A04054A-ENGLISH-ELECTRIC-LIGHTNING-F2A-Size-35-FRONT.jpg?v=1695830910"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-72nd-scale-westland-sea-king-har-3-mk-43","title":"Airfix 1\/72nd scale Westland Sea King HAR.3\/Mk.43","description":"\u003cp\u003eAs one of the highest profile aircraft in Royal Air Force history, the Westland Sea King HAS.3 served in the Search and Rescue role for almost 38 years, saving countless lives over this period and earning the admiration of a grateful British public. Possessing impressive endurance and all-weather flying capability, the stable and reliable Sea King allowed crews to carry out rescue missions in some of the most challenging flying conditions imaginable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSchemes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1) Westland Sea King Har.3, 78 Squadron RAF Mount Pleasant Falkland Islands Jan 1991.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2) Westland Sea King Mk.43 330 Squadron Royal Norwegian Air Force 1996.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Westland Sea King is a product of Leonardo MW 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.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46843305525562,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A04063","price":22.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A04063_3D-Box.jpg?v=1695828685"},{"product_id":"airfix-1-48th-scale-de-havilland-chipmunk-t-10","title":"Airfix 1\/48th scale de Havilland Chipmunk T.10","description":"With the de Havilland designed Tiger Moth biplane proving to be such an important pilot training aircraft during the Second World War, it is no wonder that the same company would have a say in producing its replacement, when both the RCAF and Royal Air Force were looking to upgrade their primary pilot training capabilities. In order to keep pace with wartime aircraft production and to allow increasing numbers of Canadian airmen to be trained, de Havilland established an overseas subsidiary in Canada, the de Havilland Aircraft Company of Canada.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFollowing the end of WWII, the company began design work on a new aircraft, one intended as a replacement for the ageing Tiger Moths still in RCAF service. A tandem two seat monoplane, the new trainer incorporated many advances over its predecessor, but shared many of its design philosophies, in that it was intended to be both simple to maintain and relatively forgiving to fly - these aircraft needed to be in the air, earning their keep.Having the distinction of being the first aircraft type designed and built by de Havilland Canada, the first Chipmunk took to the skies in May 1946 and almost immediately gained interest from the military.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBy April 1948, the Royal Canadian Air Force had taken delivery of their first Chipmunk, but they were not the only ones admiring the qualities of this extremely capable aeroplane. The vast majority of the 1,283 de Havilland Chipmunks built would be manufactured under licence in the UK, in factories at Hatfield and Chester, with around 735 of these going on to see service with the Royal Air Force, again as the direct replacement for the venerable old Tiger Moth. In RAF service, the British built machines were known as the de Havilland Chipmunk Mk.10 and they would go on to provide basic flight training support many thousands of future military aviators, in addition to providing air experience opportunities for many more as part of the University Air Squadron organisation.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDespite being a Canadian design, the Chipmunk has become one of the most recognisable Royal Air Force aircraft of the post war era and has enjoyed a military career which began in the early 1950s and continues to this day. The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight still operate two Chipmunks regularly, providing currency training for aircrew assigned to fly the unit's historic 'taildraggers' and also to allow crews to reconnoitre new display venues in advance of their show appearance. In other situations, the aircraft can be used to deliver replacement aircrew or spare parts, whilst the Flight's Spitfires and Hurricanes are out on display duties during the Airshow season. These two Chipmunks have ensured that the aircraft must now be regarded as one of the longest serving types in Royal Air Force History.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith such an impressive military pedigree as this, it is also interesting to note that the Chipmunk has gone on to become one of the most popular aircraft types on the civilian aviation scheme and it is estimated that well over 300 aircraft are still in airworthy condition worldwide. Sometimes unfairly described as 'The poor man's Spitfire', the Chipmunk surely now has to be regarded as a historic aircraft in its own right and one which continues to underline the effectiveness of its design. With aircraft formerly serving with the RAF, Army Air Corps, Royal Navy and the mount of several RAF display teams, there is no shortage of attractive schemes available for you to present your Chipmunk in if you are lucky enough to own one, not to mention the fact that the aircraft would also be operated by several overseas air forces all over the world.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs a training aeroplane, it is obvious that more people would have experience with the de Havilland Chipmunk as opposed to the more glamourous front line aircraft types which are so popular with enthusiasts, however, the opportunity to still fly in one of these historic aeroplanes ensures that it continues to be held in great affection by owners and enthusiasts alike. Importantly, the Chipmunk is still fulfilling the role for which it was originally designed when making its first flight 74 years ago, providing basic flying training and allowing people to experience the thrill of flying for the first time.","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46843406254394,"sku":"MMMS-HHC-A04105","price":22.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/files\/A04105_1_Dehavilland-Chipmunk_ARTWORK.jpg?v=1696507617"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0776\/4603\/7306\/collections\/download.webp?v=1792525004","url":"https:\/\/www.mannsmodelmoments.com\/collections\/british.oembed?page=17","provider":"Mann's Model Moments","version":"1.0","type":"link"}