BUNDLEA17 Airfix V-Bomber - Bundle

Vickers Valiant B(PR)K.1

Product code: A11001A

The Valiant was the first of the RAF’s V Bomber trio to enter service. The most conventional of the three designs, it was also the first to drop bombs in anger against Egyptian airfields during the Suez campaign. It was also the first RAF machine to drop a Hydrogen bomb during the Operation Grapple tests in 1957. However its career was cut short by serious problems with its rear spar, leading to fatal accidents and subsequent grounding of the fleet.

Individual price: £59.99

Handley Page Victor B.Mk.2(BS)

Product code: A12008

The Handley Page (HP) Victor was a jet-powered, strategic bomber which, alongside the other 'V' bombers, the Avro Vulcan and Vickers Valiant, formed an essential part of Britain's nuclear deterrent during the early part of the Cold War. The Victor was designed to carry out long-range, low-altitude attacks, but was later relegated to an aerial refuelling role when it was no longer deemed effective as a strategic bomber. Subject to the RAF's requirements for greater tactical manoeuvrability and a higher ceiling, the B.2 variant with much more powerful Rolls Royce Conway engines was developed in 1959. Thirty-four were produced in total, of which several were later converted for reconnaissance and aerial refuelling purposes. Two RAF squadrons formed on the B.2 after it entered service in 1962, but it was soon succeeded by the B.2R, a conversion which allowed 'Blue Steel' nuclear missiles to be carried in addition to free-fall nuclear payloads. Following the introduction of submarine-launched Polaris missiles in 1969, the Victor was gradually relieved of its role as a nuclear deterrent but it remained a valuable asset to the RAF as a tanker up to its retirement in 1993.

Individual price: £74.99

Avro Vulcan B.2

Product code: A12011

This 1:72 scale model of the Avro Vulcan B.2 represents a standout aircraft in the annals of British aviation. Comprising 277 pieces and boasting a wingspan of 470mm, this skill level 3 kit allows modellers to recreate the definitive version of the RAF's renowned delta wing strategic bomber. Suitable for enthusiasts aged 8 and up, the kit offers two detailed paint schemes from the Cold War period, enabling modellers to build this emblem of Britain's nuclear deterrence.

Key Features

• 1:72 scale model with 277 components for intricate assembly
• 470mm wingspan showcasing the unique delta wing design
• Includes two authentic RAF paint schemes from the Cold War era
• Skill level 3 - perfect for intermediate modellers
• Recreates the definitive B.2 variant with a kinked leading edge wing
• Suitable for ages 8 and above
• High-quality plastic construction for precise detailing

History

The Avro Vulcan is a pivotal piece of post-war British aviation history, recognised for its massive delta wing, nearly as iconic as the elliptical wing of the Spitfire. Designed to fulfil an Air Ministry demand for a swift, high-altitude strategic bomber capable of carrying a 10,000-pound nuclear payload, it served as a deterrent to threats against the UK, doubling the capability of earlier British bombers.

The Vulcan's first flight in August 1952 marked the debut of the world's first delta bomber, also becoming one of the most effective strike bombers. Nine years prior, Avro Lancasters had executed the renowned Ruhr Valley dam raids. By entering squadron service in July 1957 with No.83 Squadron at RAF Waddington, Britain possessed the fastest nuclear-capable bomber globally. Despite its destructive potential, the Vulcan became Britain's most effective peacekeeping tool during the Cold War, symbolising the dire consequences of any attack on NATO.

As the RAF trained Vulcan crews for Quick Reaction Alert, Avro engineers enhanced the design to outpace Eastern Bloc fighter and missile advancements. The introduction of more powerful Bristol Olympus engines led to stability challenges, necessitating a wing redesign. The definitive B.2 variant, launched in July 1960, featured a larger wing with two distinct kinks in the leading edge, improving both performance and appearance. The B.2 became the most renowned and numerous Vulcan variant.

The B.2's introduction coincided with more advanced nuclear weapons and a shift in delivery strategies due to Soviet anti-aircraft advancements. To sustain deterrence, Avro developed the Blue Steel air-launched nuclear stand-off missile, allowing attacks from 100 miles away, beyond Soviet missile range. This enhanced the V-bomber force’s effectiveness and tilted the nuclear balance in Britain’s favour.

In July 1969, the Royal Navy’s submarines assumed responsibility for Britain’s strategic nuclear deterrent, and the RAF conducted its final V-bomber Blue Steel mission in 1970. Vulcans continued in a conventional strike role with retained nuclear capability for another 14 years before being retired. Cherished by the British public, the Vulcan Display Flight operated one aircraft on the UK airshow circuit for nine years after service ended.

Remarkably, the last flying Avro Vulcan, XH558, returned to the skies in October 2007 under civilian management. Over eight years, it captivated millions and became a national aviation treasure, a beloved relic of the Cold War era.

BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc.

Individual price: £74.99