{"title":"GBR Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"border-model-bf-004-1-35-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Border Model","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51528829436171,"sku":"BF-004","price":57.56,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/border-model-bf-004-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb.jpg?v=1748503627"},{"product_id":"eduard-11149-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-and-mk-vc-eagles-call","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb and Mk Vc ‘Eagle's Call’","description":"\u003cp\u003eLimited edition kit of British WWII fighter aircraft Spitfire Mk.Vb and Mk.Vc in 1\/48 scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFocused on machines used by US pilots in RAF and USAAF in the European and African theatre of operations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts:Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    marking options: 12\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    PE parts: pre-painted\u003cbr\u003e\n    painting mask: yes\u003cbr\u003e\n    resin parts: no\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eduard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51346106908939,"sku":"11149","price":61.19,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/eduard-11149-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-and-mk-vc-eagle-s-call-1160786108.jpg?v=1749027132"},{"product_id":"eduard-11153-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-spitfire-story-the-sweeps","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb ‘Spitfire Story: The Sweeps’","description":"\u003cp\u003eLimited edition kit of British WWII fighter aircraft Spitfire Mk.Vb in 1\/48 scale.\u003cbr\u003e\nFrom the kit you can build Spitfires of pilots of different nationalities flying in the RAF fighting over the occupied west part of Europe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    marking options: 10\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    PE parts: yes pre-painted\u003cbr\u003e\n    painting mask: yes\u003cbr\u003e\n    resin parts: no\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eduard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51346106941707,"sku":"11153","price":57.56,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/eduard-11153-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-spitfire-story-the-sweeps-1160786107.jpg?v=1749027128"},{"product_id":"eduard-11180-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-they-fought-to-rebuild","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb ‘They Fought To Rebuild’","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Limited edition kit of British fighter aircraft Spitfire Mk.Vb in 1\/48 scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe kit offers to build Spitfires Mk.Vb, which were flown by Czechoslovak pilots serving in the RAF during the defence of Great Britain and attacks on targets in occupied Europe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    marking options: 12\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    PE parts: pre-painted\u003cbr\u003e\n    painting mask: yes\u003cbr\u003e\n    resin parts: no\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eduard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51346107334923,"sku":"11180","price":50.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/eduard-11180-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-they-fought-to-rebuild-1160786103.jpg?v=1749027013"},{"product_id":"eduard-84186-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb","description":"\u003cp\u003eWeekend edition kit of British WWII fighter plane Spitfire Mk.Vb in 1\/48 scale.\u003cbr\u003e\nThe kit is focused on on Spitfires in the so-called medium series with pre-set armoured glass on the windshield and a bulge covering the cannon cartridges on the lower surface of the wing in the shape of a kidney.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    marking options: 4\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    PE parts: no\u003cbr\u003e\n    painting mask: no\u003cbr\u003e\n    resin parts: no\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eduard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51346114674955,"sku":"84186","price":19.76,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/eduard-84186-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-1160786078.jpg?v=1749027495"},{"product_id":"eduard-84198-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Weekend edition kit of British WWII fighter plane Spitfire Mk.Vb in 1\/48 scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAll Spitfires are early version with armor glass before the windshield and have under the wings symetrical bulges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    marking options: 4\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    PE parts: no\u003cbr\u003e\n    painting mask: no\u003cbr\u003e\n    resin parts: no\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eduard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51346121261323,"sku":"84198","price":19.76,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/eduard-84198-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb.jpg?v=1748867816"},{"product_id":"eduard-84200-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Weekend edition kit of British fighter aircraft Spitfire Mk.Vb in 1\/48 scale..\u003cbr\u003e\nThe kit presents Spitfires used during operation Overlord.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    marking options: 4\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    PE parts: yes\u003cbr\u003e\n    painting mask: no\u003cbr\u003e\n    resin parts: no\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eduard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51346122440971,"sku":"84200","price":19.76,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/eduard-84200-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb.jpg?v=1748867824"},{"product_id":"tamiya-61033-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-mk-vb-trop","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb \/ Mk Vb (trop)","description":"\u003cp\u003ePowered by the Rolls-Royce Merin 45 engine, the Mk.Vb variant of the Spitfire was the mainstay fighter of the RAF in the middle stages of WWII. This 1\/48 scale kit accurately reproduces this 20mm cannon-armed variant and includes options such as two different types of windscreens, three types of canopies, and both normal and clipped wingtips. One pilot figure and three marking options are also included.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tamiya","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51471879962891,"sku":"61033","price":18.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/tamiya-61033-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-mk-vb-trop.jpg?v=1749112931"},{"product_id":"tamiya-60756-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-mk-vb-trop","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb \/ Mk Vb (trop)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is a 1\/72 scale plastic model assembly kit depicting the Mk.Vb, the most prolifically produced variant of the Spitfire. ★From the elegant overall form to Mk.Vb-specific features such as the 20mm cannon-equipped wing, the form of the aircraft is captured in style. ★The model can be assembled with different wing designs. ★Comes with two types of front canopy and three types of rear canopy parts. ★Parts are included to recreate the special air filters seen on TROP variants that were deployed in tropical climes. ★Comes with four marking options and a display base.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tamiya","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51471903260939,"sku":"60756","price":13.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/tamiya-60756-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-mk-vb-trop.jpg?v=1749113468"},{"product_id":"trumpeter-02403-1-24-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe mass production of the Spitfire started in 1936 and more than 20000 planes were produced until 1948. Among several variations of this main fighter of Royal Air Force, the Mk.V series was the most widely produced and more than 6500 planes were deployed. By early 1941, the majority of fighter squadrons were furnished with Spitfire Mk.I. Improvements were suggested by the pilots and every effort was made to maintain its performance advantages over its opponents. The main improvement was the use of the more powerful Merlin type 45 engine and a version with a mixed armament of four 7.7mm machine guns and two 20mm cannon was named ‘Mk.Vb‘. Some Mk.Vb's has slipped wing tips for better low altitude maneuverability. In 1942, the Spitfire was also urgently required for operations overseas. One of the better known versions was the North African prepared Spitfire designated ‘TROP.‘, for Tropical. To protect engine from sand, a Vokes air filter was affixed over the carburetor intake. Although the filter was successful, its large mass reduced the aircraft's speed. The problem was solved by 103rd maintenance unit stationed at Aboukir, who designed a smaller more streamlined unit that was equally effective. The spitfire went through numerous minor and major changes throughout its production life, and served with distinction on every battle front of the war.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Trumpeter","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51517920837899,"sku":"02403","price":89.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/trumpeter-02403-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb.jpg?v=1749140577"},{"product_id":"trumpeter-02404-1-24-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-seaplane","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb Seaplane","description":"\u003cp\u003eSUPERMARINE SPITFIRE FLOATPLANE - Floatplane fighter version of Supermarine Spitfire initiated during 1942, based on Mk VB airframe using floats designed by Supermarine (as Supermarine Type 355). Conversion by Folland Aircraft, with four-bladed propeller on Merlin 45 engines, tropical filter and extra ventral fin. First flown October 12, 1942, and later fitted with extra dorsal fin and Aero-Vee tropical filter. Two further Mk VB conversions by Folland during 1943; all three to Egypt late-1943 and flown from Great Bitter Lake, but no operational use. One Supermarine Spitfire LF Mk IXB, with Merlin 66 and four-bladed propeller (Type 385), similarly converted by Folland, first flown June 18, 1944, later reconverted to land-plane.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Trumpeter","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51517920903435,"sku":"02404","price":89.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/trumpeter-02404-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-seaplane.jpg?v=1749140582"},{"product_id":"trumpeter-02412-1-24-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-mk-vb-trop","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb \/ Mk Vb (trop)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Supermarine Spitfire is regarded by many as the most beautifully designed single seat fighter to appear during WWII. The Spitfire went through numerous major and minor changes throughout its long production life. Early improvements resulted in the Mk.V series of Spitfires which became the most widely produced versions of all Mk's. The main improvements was the furnishing of three wing armament configurations, and the use of the more powerful Merlin type 45 engine. The most numerous Mk.V was the ‘b‘ winged version which had a mixed armament of two 7.7mm machine guns and on 20mm cannon in each wing. The Spitfire that demonstrated such superb performance over its homeland, was also urgently required for operations overseas. One of the better known versions was the North African prepared Spitfire designated ‘TROP‘, for Tropical. The biggest problem in desert operations was the intake of abrasive sands into the engine, which quickly wore out moving parts. To overcome this difficulty a Vokes air filter was affixed over the carburetor intake. Although the filter was successful, its large mass reduced the aircraft's speed. The problem was solved by the local maintenance unit stationed at Aboukir, who designated a smaller more streamlined unit that was equally effective. The clipped wing versions, which had better low altitude maneuverability, were commonly seen in North Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Trumpeter","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51517921919243,"sku":"02412","price":89.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/trumpeter-02412-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-mk-vb-trop.jpg?v=1749140624"},{"product_id":"airfix-a05125a-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb","title":"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":51532641829131,"sku":"A05125A","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a05125a-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb.jpg?v=1749147677"},{"product_id":"eduard-2154-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-spitfire-story-the-sweeps","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb ‘Spitfire Story: The Sweeps’","description":"\u003cp\u003eLimited edition kit of British WWII fighter aircraft Spitfire Mk.Vb in 1\/72 scale.\u003cbr\u003e\nFrom the kit you can build Spitfires of pilots of different nationalities flying in the RAF fighting over the occupied west part of Europe.\u003c\/p\u003e                                                           \n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    marking options: 11\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    PE parts: pre-painted\u003cbr\u003e\n    painting mask: yes\u003cbr\u003e\n    resin parts: no\u003cbr\u003e\n    extras: no\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eduard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52885279179019,"sku":"2154","price":28.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/2154_01.jpg?v=1770491491"},{"product_id":"eduard-70205-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ProfiPACK edition kit of British WWII fighter plane Spitfire Mk.Vb in 1\/72 scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAll Spitfires are early version with armor glass before the windshield and have under the wings symetrical bulges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    marking options: 6\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    PE parts: pre-painted\u003cbr\u003e\n    painting mask: yes\u003cbr\u003e\n    resin parts: no\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eduard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52885279310091,"sku":"70205","price":15.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/70205_01.jpg?v=1770491538"},{"product_id":"eduard-82157-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ProfiPACK edition kit of British WWII fighter plane Spitfire Mk.Vb in 1\/48 scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAll Spitfires are mid version with armor glass before the windshield and have under the wings asymetrical bulges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    marking options: 7\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    PE parts: pre-painted\u003cbr\u003e\n    painting mask: yes\u003cbr\u003e\n    resin parts: no\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eduard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52885283995915,"sku":"82157","price":26.96,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/82157_vko_krabice_z2.jpg?v=1770491732"},{"product_id":"eduard-70206-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-mid","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb (mid)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ProfiPACK edition kit of British WWII fighter plane Spitfire Mk.Vb in 1\/72 scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAll Spitfires are mid version with armor glass before the windshield and have under the wings asymetrical bulges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    marking options: 7\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    PE parts: pre-painted\u003cbr\u003e\n    painting mask: yes\u003cbr\u003e\n    resin parts: no\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eduard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53076603568395,"sku":"70206","price":15.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/70206_01.jpg?v=1777308797"},{"product_id":"ibg-72592-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-trop","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb (trop)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe arrival of Messerschmitt Bf 109F-equipped II.\/JG 27 in North Africa in September 1941, followed by additional Luftwaffe fighter Gruppen, shifted the balance of air power in the Axis favour. In response, RAF Middle East Command urgently requested Spitfire reinforcements, and it was decided to deploy two squadrons—No. 92 and No. 145 Squadrons RAF—to Egypt. The tropicalisation of the Spitfire Mk V, however, caused significant delays. The first aircraft were not shipped until February 1942. Tropical modifications included the distinctive Vokes dust filter and enlarged oil tank housed in a deeper engine cowling beneath the nose, a revised oil cooler and radiator installation, desert survival equipment stowage, and numerous smaller adaptations intended to improve reliability in harsh desert conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo accelerate delivery, it was decided that fifty tropicalised Spitfires would be shipped to Takoradi on the Gold Coast (modern Ghana), assembled there, and flown across Africa to Egypt via the established Takoradi ferry route. At the same time, a further fifty non-tropicalised airframes were dispatched by sea around the Cape of Good Hope to Port Sudan. The first shipment arrived at Takoradi aboard the SS Lagosian on 3 April 1942. After assembly and test flying, the aircraft began the long ferry flight to Egypt later that month. Allocated initially to No. 145 Squadron, the first Spitfires entered combat on 1 June 1942. Although their numbers were initially too small to alter the air situation decisively, their impact grew steadily as additional aircraft and trained pilots became available. By the time of the Second Battle of El Alamein in October–November 1942—one of the decisive Allied victories of the North African campaign—the Western Desert Air Force fielded three Spitfire squadrons in Egypt: No. 92, No. 145 and No. 601 Squadrons. Operating primarily in the air-superiority role, they increasingly challenged the Luftwaffe and helped erode the effectiveness of Axis air operations over the battlefield.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing the victory at El Alamein, Spitfires accompanied the Allied advance across Libya into Tunisia, while further RAF units converted from Hurricanes and Kittyhawks to the type. Their growing presence provided the Western Desert Air Force with a modern fighter capable of matching the Bf 109 on more equal terms. After the Allied landings in French North Africa during Operation Torch in November 1942, additional Spitfire units were deployed from Gibraltar and the United Kingdom to Algeria and Morocco. Together with rapidly expanding USAAF fighter and bomber formations, these reinforcements enabled the Allies to achieve increasing air superiority over Tunisia. Throughout the winter and spring of 1942–43, Allied fighters and bombers conducted relentless attacks against Axis airfields, ports, shipping and supply lines, gradually overwhelming German and Italian air forces in the theatre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBy the time the Tunisian campaign ended in May 1943, Allied air power had become a decisive factor in the destruction of Axis forces in North Africa. The Spitfire, which had arrived in Egypt only a year earlier in small numbers, had become one of the principal fighters of the Allied air offensive, contributing significantly to the campaign that ended with the surrender of more than 250,000 Axis troops in Tunisia.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"IBG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53293152895243,"sku":"72592","price":21.59,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/725634173_1660435731702780_822337401007436688_n.jpg?v=1786315351"},{"product_id":"ibg-72600-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-pr-mk-ic-pr-mk-ig","title":"Supermarine Spitfire PR Mk Ic \/ PR Mk Ig","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Supermarine Spitfire is without doubt one of the most iconic and recognisable aircraft of the Second World War. While its story spans the entirety of the conflict—from the earliest days to the final victory—it was the early variants powered by the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine with a single-stage supercharger that laid the foundations of the modern Royal Air Force, both technologically and symbolically.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Spitfire’s origins trace back to the 1930s, when Great Britain, recognizing the growing threat posed by Nazi Germany’s expanding air force, began modernizing its own aerial capabilities. Reginald Mitchell’s design, influenced by his experience with high-speed Schneider Trophy racing aircraft, proved to be a masterpiece: aerodynamically clean, structurally modern, and exceptionally agile. The Spitfire quickly became the RAF’s premier fighter, embodying the new spirit of a reformed and ready air force.\u003cbr\u003e\nEarly operational variants, such as the Mk I and Mk II, armed with eight Browning machine guns, played a central role in the Battle of Britain, giving the RAF the means to resist and ultimately repel the Luftwaffe’s aerial assault. Later models, like the Mk V, introduced heavier armament and improved performance, while retaining the Spitfire’s hallmark manoeuvrability and flying pleasure.\u003cbr\u003e\nAmong the lesser-known but crucial developments were the high-altitude versions, such as the Spitfire Mk VI, which featured extended wingtips, a pressurized cockpit, and specialized equipment for high-altitude interception missions. Designed to counter enemy reconnaissance and bomber aircraft operating at extreme altitudes, these variants pushed the Merlin engine to its limits. In parallel, Photo Reconnaissance (PR) versions were developed, optimized for long-range missions with additional fuel tanks, stripped-down equipment, and high-altitude capability. These unarmed but swift aircraft flew deep over enemy territory, capturing vital intelligence with unmatched precision.\u003cbr\u003e\nSpitfires powered by early single-stage supercharged Merlins saw combat on every front of the war: from the white cliffs of southern England, across the deserts of North Africa, over the besieged skies of Malta, and into the jungles of the Far East. Their adaptability and reliability made them indispensable across vastly different environments and theatres of war.\u003cbr\u003e\nAlthough the single-stage Merlin engine defined the early war years, it was by no means the end of the Spitfire’s evolution. Later models were fitted with two-stage supercharged Merlins, dramatically improving high-altitude performance, and eventually with the even more powerful Griffon engine, extending the aircraft’s relevance and capability to the very end of the war—and even beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike most reconnaissance Spitfires, which relied on high altitude and speed as their primary means of protection, the PR Type G was developed to carry out photographic reconnaissance missions at low and medium altitudes. Low-level reconnaissance flights were among the most dangerous operations undertaken by RAF aircrews.This required a completely different approach to both aircraft configuration and operational tactics. To obtain photographs with sufficient detail, pilots were required to fly directly over their targets, often within range of light anti-aircraft artillery, machine-gun fire, and enemy fighters. Unlike the high-altitude PR variants, which frequently operated beyond the reach of most defensive measures, PR Type G crews faced constant exposure to hostile fire and had to rely on their flying skills, speed, and low-altitude maneuvering to survive. The Type G retained its fighter armament, providing pilots with the means to defend themselves if attacked. Engaging enemy aircraft was discouraged unless absolutely necessary, as preserving the reconnaissance mission and returning with the photographic evidence always took priority. Despite these dangers, the Type G played an important role in the development of Allied photographic reconnaissance. Early missions flown by armed reconnaissance Spitfires contributed to obtaining the first detailed photographs of German radar installations, providing invaluable intelligence on the Luftwaffe’s growing early-warning network. Equally important were reconnaissance flights over occupied Norway, during which German warships concealed within the fjords were located and photographed. These images enabled Allied intelligence to monitor the movements of major Kriegsmarine units and provided vital information for British naval planners. Although later specialized reconnaissance variants offered greater altitude performance and longer range, the PR Type G remains a testament to the courage of the pilots who carried out some of the war’s most hazardous missions—flying low over enemy territory, where success depended on a combination of precision, speed, and exceptional airmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"IBG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53293152928011,"sku":"72600","price":21.59,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/725291887_1310938434575521_1121347130204870509_n.jpg?v=1786315592"},{"product_id":"kotare-32006-1-32-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb-early","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb (early)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe legendary Supermarine “Spitfire” is undoubtedly one of the most famous, and perhaps the most beautiful, aircraft of all time. Designed from 1934 under the guidance of Supermarine Aviation Works’ chief designer Reginald Mitchell, Joseph Smith and “Alf” Faddy, the prototype first flew on 5 March 1936. The Supermarine built, 1030hp Rolls-Royce Merlin II\/III powered, 8 Browning .303” machine gun armed, Spitfire Mk.I entered service from mid-May 1938. The rear fuselage was adorned with raised rivets for ease of construction while the main planes and front of the fuselage were flush riveted, puttied\/filler primed and sanded smooth for improved performance. Numerous improvements were introduced throughout production. Some Mk.I were armed with 2 Hispano 20mm cannons which proved to be so unreliable that they were withdrawn from service in early September 1940. The problems were solved later that year, at which time it was reintroduced with an additional 4 Browning .303” guns and designated the Spitfire Mk.Ib (“B” wing), at which time the 8 Browning .303” gun armed aircraft was re-designated the Mk.Ia (“A” wing).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory (CBAF) built 1150hp Rolls-Royce Merlin XII powered Spitfire Mk.IIa and Mk.IIb featured many of the later Mk.Ia improvements although the key difference was the new engine which had a Coffman (explosive) cartridge starting system.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eA 1390hp Rolls-Royce Merlin XX powered Spitfire Mk.III prototype had been in development since January 1940 which incorporated numerous improvements introduced throughout Mk.I\/II production as well as many new innovations. In early 1941 an urgent need for improved performance saw the installation of the 1440hp Rolls-Royce Merlin 45 into approximately 365 internally strengthened Mk.Ia\/IIa \u0026amp; Mk.Ib\/IIb airframes thereby creating the stop-gap Mk.Va and Mk.Vb.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eEarly production Mk.Vb (as featured in this model) completed from early-1941 incorporated Mk.I\/II airframe improvements introduced up to that time including constant speed DeHavilland \u0026amp; Rotol propellers, a carb intake ice\/snow guard, fireproof bulkhead, deletion of the 47gal fuel gauge in the instrument panel, engine driven undercarriage controls, windscreen de-icing, Martin-Baker hood release (jettison) system, composite seat, pilot’s armour plating, IFF Mk.II, a single parachute landing flare chute, electrical test door in the port wing fillet, raised rivet wireless and accumulator doors, Plessey flare device, and reinforced tailwheel strut. They also featured the improved “B” type wing, metal skinned ailerons, improved cannon shell ejection chutes, symmetrical\/double-bulged and early asymmetric underwing cannon fairings, two-cell radiator, and an improved oil cooler design.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eMid production Mk.Vb completed from mid-1941 saw the introduction of additional types of DeHavilland and Rotol propellers, more efficient “fishtail” exhaust manifolds, tyres with concentric side-wall rings, armour under the seat and an emergency exit crowbar. Later production Mk.Vb saw the introduction of a 24 volt voltage regulator behind the pilot’s headrest, rearranged gun heating and oxygen systems, wheel covers, external “slipper” fuel tanks, balloon hoods, internal windscreen armoured glass, a square reflector gun sight Mk.II, clipped wingtips, tropical air intake filters, and deletion of the landing lights, parachute flare and pilot’s headrest. Very late serving aircraft could be found with multi-ejector exhaust manifolds, bomb carriers, and elevators with increased balance areas. Some of these modifications were retrofitted to earlier aircraft. A Mk.Vc was put into production from early 1942 and introduced the “C” wing, with modified undercarriage geometry, which could be armed with up to 4 Hispano 20mm cannons or 8 Browning .303” guns, although it was usually fitted with 2 cannons and 4 Browning guns.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eNumerous additional engine, airframe and armament improvements were made to the Spitfire before production ceased in 1948, by which time over 22000 had been produced in 2-dozen variants with the most notable being the 1030hp Mk.I, 1470hp Mk.V, 1720hp Mk.IX, 2035hp Mk.XIV, the photo-reconnaissance Mk.XI and the navalised Seafire Mk.III.\u003c\/p\u003e  \n\n\u003cp\u003eEarly production Mk.Vb featured the colours and finishing details of their respective airframe manufacturers. The interior areas were primed with light grey before being painted aluminium, except for the cockpit between frames 8 \u0026amp; 11 which appear to have been painted with grey-green (Supermarine), different from the green seen on early and mid-production Mk.I\/Ia, and very pale grey-green (CBAF). Major internal components supplied by sub-contractors could be delivered in various shades of grey-green or aluminium or even black.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eUpper surfaces were initially painted Dark Earth and Dark Green in varying shades applied with hard (Supermarine) and soft (CBAF) demarcation lines in the A pattern. The undersides (including the wheel wells, undercarriage struts and wheel hubs) were finished with “Sky Type S”. Although Night (black) was reintroduced for the underside of the port wing from late November 1940 until late April 1941, no Mk.Vb appear to have been finished this way at the factory, although Mk.Vb converted from earlier production Mk.Ib would have had Night applied at the units, before being repainted again with Sky Type S. Spitfire sub-assemblies were usually supplied pre-painted so a single aircraft could exhibit a variety of shades, and sometimes the camouflage pattern would not match perfectly from one sub-assembly\/component to the next. Early production Mk.Vb serving after mid-August 1941 would have received the new “Day Fighter” camouflage scheme with Ocean Grey (or mixed grey) applied over the previous Dark Earth, and Medium Sea Grey applied over the previous “Sky Type S” undersides. These new colours could be brush painted or sprayed on depending on what equipment was available at the time.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eAdditionally, extensive weathering and re-painting (hand brushed as well as sprayed) also helped ensure that a wide variety of tonal differences could be seen. While we have tried our best with our paint suggestions, there is no doubt many will disagree with us. Which is OK.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kotare","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53296343515403,"sku":"32006","price":80.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/d854917e-K32006_20Kotare_201-32_20Spitfire_20Mk.Vb_20_Early_20box_20art.jpg?v=1786488151"}],"url":"https:\/\/anglia-models.com\/collections\/gbr-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vb.oembed","provider":"Anglia Models","version":"1.0","type":"link"}