BUNDLEA47 Navy Fleet Aircraft Bundle

Supermarine Seafire F.XVII

Product code: A06102A

This 1:48 scale model of the Supermarine Seafire F.XVII, a pinnacle of naval aviation, rejoins the Airfix lineup after a decade-long hiatus. Comprising 134 parts and rated at skill level 3, this plastic kit authentically replicates the unique teardrop canopy and the reduced-height rear fuselage characteristic of the XVII variant. With a wingspan of 235mm and three paint options provided, this detailed model is perfect for enthusiasts aged 8 and older, bringing a key Fleet Air Arm fighter to your collection.

Key Features

• 134 plastic components for an intricate 1:48 scale model
• Unique teardrop canopy and reduced-height rear fuselage
• Includes three genuine paint options
• Accurately modelled folding wing mechanism
• Options for under-wing fuel tanks and rocket armaments
• Faithfully reproduced reinforced structural details
• Completed wingspan of 235mm
• Intermediate skill level 3
• Suitable for ages 8 and up

History

The Supermarine Seafire, the Navy's counterpart to the beloved Spitfire, amazed the world with its exceptional performance in challenging environments. It operated seamlessly from aircraft carriers, asserting its dominance over both land and sea. Its folding wings facilitated quick take-offs and landings on naval decks, enhancing its operational range across the ocean.

The XVII variant was the first Seafire to incorporate a reduced-height rear fuselage and a unique teardrop canopy, greatly enhancing pilot visibility during carrier operations. Its reinforced build allowed it to carry a heavier armament load, including under-wing fuel tanks and rockets. This aircraft served on the frontlines until the early 1950s before transitioning to a training role.

The striking design ensured both agility and speed, with sleek, aerodynamic lines that exuded elegance and improved manoeuvrability. Capable of reaching speeds up to 378 miles per hour (608km/h), it provided pilots with a significant edge in combat during World War Two and beyond.

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

Individual price: £34.99

de Havilland Tiger Moth

Product code: A04104A

This 1:48 scale model kit of the de Havilland Tiger Moth represents one of the most iconic training aircraft in aviation history, comprising 91 parts and offering two paint scheme options. Designed for ages 8 and up with a skill level of 3, this plastic model recreates an aircraft celebrated for its forgiving flight characteristics and significant role in pilot training for operational duties. From a student pilot's viewpoint, the Tiger Moth was a stable aircraft, with minimal handling issues, and generally accommodating of beginner errors. It earned a reputation as an 'easy plane to fly, but challenging to master', making it an ideal choice for primary training of many pilots who would later fly in WWII.

Key Features

• 1:48 scale model with 217mm wingspan
• 91 plastic parts for detailed assembly
• Includes two authentic paint schemes
• Skill level 3 - suitable for ages 8 and above
• Represents the classic inter-war training aircraft

History

The de Havilland Tiger Moth is recognised as a pivotal training aircraft in aviation history, forming the core of pilot training for the Royal Air Force during the Second World War. Its gentle flight behaviour and robust build made it an excellent platform for teaching novice pilots the basics of flying.

At the onset of the war, the RAF had approximately 500 Tiger Moths in operation, and they requisitioned many more from flying clubs throughout the country. Thousands of pilots began their flight training in the Tiger Moth, acquiring essential skills that would later be applied to more advanced fighters and bombers.

The Tiger Moth's influence extended well beyond the wartime period, with numerous examples continuing in civilian use for training and leisure flying. Its distinctive biplane design became a symbol of British aviation training, securing its place in the nation's aeronautical legacy.

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

Individual price: £24.99

Hawker Sea Fury FB.11

Product code: A06105A

This remarkable 1:48 scale model of the Hawker Sea Fury FB.11 showcases one of the finest piston-engine fighter aircraft ever built. Comprising 122 parts and rated at skill level 2, this kit provides an engaging project for modellers aged 8 and up. Once assembled, the model spans 243mm and offers three distinct paint schemes, enabling you to depict this iconic aircraft in its various roles, from Fleet Air Arm service to air racing triumphs.

Key Features

• 122 piece plastic model kit at 1:48 scale
• Skill level 2 - suitable for modellers aged 8 years and above
• Choice of 3 authentic paint schemes included
• Completed wingspan of 243mm
• Embodies the peak of piston-engine fighter design
• Detailed replica of the final piston fighter in Britain's Fleet Air Arm

History

The Hawker Sea Fury, renowned as one of the most proficient piston-engine fighters and the last of its kind to join Britain's Fleet Air Arm, epitomises the zenith of piston-engine fighter design. Although introduced post-World War II, the Sea Fury engaged in combat with early jet fighters during the Korean War, demonstrating outstanding performance.

The initial deck landing trials took place in the winter of 1946. The Sea Fury served as the primary single-seat fighter for the Fleet Air Arm until 1953, when it was succeeded by the jet-powered Hawker Sea Hawk.

This aircraft also operated with several foreign air forces, fulfilling roles such as strike fighter, trainer, and high-speed target towing. In air racing, the Sea Fury's formidable power and speed led to numerous victories, making it a favourite among competitors.

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

Individual price: £34.99

Supermarine Walrus Mk.I

Product code: A09183

This meticulously crafted 1:48 scale model of the Supermarine Walrus Mk.I represents one of the most successful naval reconnaissance and air-sea rescue planes of WWII. Comprising 156 components and featuring three paint options, this kit allows enthusiasts to build this unique amphibious biplane, which was crucial in challenging maritime settings.

Key Features

• 156 components for a detailed assembly of this iconic amphibious plane
• Includes three genuine paint options depicting various operational aircraft
• 1:48 scale model with an impressive 292mm wingspan
• Skill level 3 - ideal for modellers with intermediate skills
• Detailed representation of a WWII naval reconnaissance aircraft
• Faithful depiction of the distinctive pusher propeller design
• Suitable for ages 8 and up

History

Though its appearance was somewhat awkward, the Supermarine Walrus was among the most effective aircraft of its kind ever constructed. Designed to function in particularly challenging environments, the Walrus excelled as a naval reconnaissance aircraft and became a crucial air-sea rescue tool, credited with saving numerous downed airmen.

Created by R.J. Mitchell, who later designed the famous Spitfire, the Walrus was developed to meet the need for a ship-based reconnaissance amphibian. The prototype took its first flight in 1933 as the Seagull V and entered service with the Fleet Air Arm in 1935 as the Walrus. Its unusual pusher propeller setup positioned the engine between the biplane wings, protecting it from water spray during operations.

Equipped with a single Pegasus radial engine, the Walrus could launch from both ship catapults and water. Its sturdy build enabled it to endure the harsh conditions of maritime missions, from the cold waters of the North Atlantic to the warm climates of the Far East. The typical crew of four included a pilot, navigator, radio operator, and air gunner.

Initially used for naval reconnaissance and gunnery spotting from battleships and cruisers, the Walrus found its niche in air-sea rescue missions. Operating from coastal bases in Britain and the Mediterranean, Walrus crews faced enemy fire and severe weather to save Allied airmen from the sea. Its capability to land on water in rough conditions and dependable performance made it perfect for this perilous task.

The Walrus was active throughout WWII, participating in operations across various theatres. From spotting for naval guns during the pursuit of the Bismarck to rescuing bomber crews from the Channel, the "Shagbat" or "Steam Pigeon," as it was affectionately known, became a comforting sight for airmen stranded at sea. By the end of the war, RAF Air Sea Rescue squadrons flying the Walrus had saved hundreds of lives, solidifying the aircraft's legacy as a true lifesaver.

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

Individual price: £49.99

Blackburn Buccaneer S.2C/D

Product code: A12012

A mighty naval strike aircraft which can trace its origins back to Britain's response to a massive naval expansion programme by the Soviet Navy in the 1950s and the introduction of their Sverdlov Class Cruisers, the Blackburn Buccaneer was designed to have exceptional low altitude performance and the ability to effectively neutralise this new naval threat. Required to operate from the relatively confined space aboard one of Britain's aircraft carriers, this subsonic strike jet was the most capable aircraft of its kind in the world and a real triumph for Britain's aviation industry - it also happened to be the heaviest aircraft ever operated by the Royal Navy.

In order to allow its effective operation at sea, the Buccaneers design not only included the ability to fold its wings, but also the nose (radar housing) and rear speed brake could be folded back and split open respectively, allowing for more effective carrier stowage, whilst maintaining the aerodynamic integrity of the aircraft. Entering Royal Navy service in July 1962, there were no two seat trainer versions of the Buccaneer, so even though the pilot would have had the benefit of several flights as a back seat observer in the new aircraft, his first flight as pilot would therefore be his Buccaneer solo. Thankfully, the Blackburn designers included many hi-tech automated features in the Buccaneer's roomy cockpit, all of which were intended to reduce pilot workload.

There is something aviation enthusiasts find particularly fascinating about the operation of aircraft at sea and the intrepid aviators who flew aeroplanes from the heaving decks of aircraft carriers under steam, particularly when aviation entered the jet age. The unforgiving nature of these operations dictated that naval aircraft had to be extremely tough, in addition to being capable of carrying out the mission for which they were required, attributes the Blackburn Buccaneer possessed in abundance. 

The introduction of the S.2 variant of the aircraft in late 1965 saw a major upgrade of the Buccaneer's capabilities, but centred around the adoption of a new powerplant, the famous Rolls Royce Spey turbofan. Possessing greater thrust and increased range, the Buccaneer S.2 was an even more capable naval strike aircraft and one which must have struck fear into the hearts of every Soviet naval commander. With its increased power, the S.2 was now able to land back on its home carrier with one engine shut down if required, but still having enough thrust to safely go around again, should the aircraft fail to catch the arrestor hook.

The Buccaneers of No.800 Naval Air Squadron were famously involved in the destruction of the stricken oil tanker Torrey Canyon, off Land's End in March 1967, as the government attempted to avert an environmental catastrophe by breaking open the vessel and burning its flammable cargo. Operating from RAF Brawdy, eight Buccaneers from No.800 NAS dropped 42,000 lbs of high explosive bombs on the tanker, achieving an impressive 75% success rate.

Individual price: £74.99