{"title":"Type - Fighter Aircraft - 1\/72 - all","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70033-1-72-grumman-fm-2-wildcat","title":"Grumman FM-2 Wildcat","description":"\u003cp\u003eNew moudls, FM-2 Wildcat model kit 1\/72 scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSet contents:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals with two markings options\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarkings options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eUSS Petrof Bay, VC-93, Lt (jg) Heaterly Foster III, Okinawa, April 1945\u003cbr\u003e\n    USS Savo, VC-27, Lt Ralph E. Elliot Jr., Phillipines, late 1944\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBrief history of the FM-2 Wildcat\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGrumman F4F-3\/4 was primary US Navy fighter aeroplane at the beginning of the war. When the Navy built new carriers, also more potent fighters were introduced to service (F6F and F4U). But it was missing a lightweight fighter for service on escort carriers. Grumman has designed XF4F-8 prototype with light construction, armament reduced to 4 MGs and more powerful engine P\u0026amp;W R-1830-86.  Because of increased torque of an engine, the aeroplane got a taller vertical tail for flight stability. The new Wildcat performance was significantly better than its predecessor, but only on low altitudes due to lack of two-stage supercharger. It was by design, FM-2s  tasks were performed mostly at a low level: close air support, ASW patrol and CAP. New Wildcat’s improved performance was a surprise to enemy pilots. It could fight A6M5 Zero and Bf-109G on equal terms. The last series of the aeroplane had six HVAR unguided missiles mounted underwings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNew Wildcat production was made in General Motors plants under new designation FM-2. It started service in late 1943 and deserved well in Battle of Atlantic and Island Hopping Campaign on Pacific. Total of 4437 FM-2s was built, 65% of all Wildcat versions. 370 of them served with the Royal Navy as the Wildcat VI.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341711311115,"sku":"70033","price":18.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70033-grumman-fm-2-wildcat.jpg?v=1748867981"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70034-1-72-grumman-fm-2-wildcat-training-cats","title":"Grumman FM-2 Wildcat ‘Training Cats’","description":"\u003cp\u003eSet contents:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals with five markings options\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarkings options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eFM-2 Wildcat, U65, Carrier Aircraft Service Unit (CASU), MCAS Ewa, Hawaii 1944s\u003cbr\u003e\n    FM-2 Wildcat, C50, training unit unnown, probably MCAS Florida, 1945\u003cbr\u003e\n    FM-2 Wildcat, LS03 (R), Unit unknown\u003cbr\u003e\n    FM-2 Wildcat, NAMU3\/1, Naval Air Modification Unit (NAMU), Johnsville, Pennsylvania, September 1946\u003cbr\u003e\n    FM-2 Wildcat, M-F 48, CVE-67, USS Solomons, US East Coast, May 1945\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341711343883,"sku":"70034","price":18.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70034-grumman-fm-2-wildcat-training-cats.jpg?v=1748867985"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70037-1-72-hurricane-mk-iic-trop","title":"Hurricane Mk IIc (trop)","description":"\u003cp\u003eBritish fighter aeroplane Hawker Hurricane Mk IIc tropical version model kit, new tooling, excellent detail easy assembly.\u003cbr\u003e\nCamouflage and markings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eHurricane Mk IIc trop, HL885\/AX-Z, 1 Squadron SAAF, Lt. Stewart “Bomb” Finney, LG142,  Egypt, September1942.\u003cbr\u003e\n    Hurricane Mk IIc trop, LD726\/Y, 113 Squadron RAF, pilot: F\/O Graham Skallam, Burma 1944.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341711606027,"sku":"70037","price":19.8,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70037-hurricane-mk-iic-trop-1160787054.jpg?v=1749036129"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70039-1-72-north-american-p-51c-mustang-mk-iii","title":"North American P-51C Mustang Mk III","description":"\u003cp\u003eNew tool 1\/72 scale kit of British P-51C Mustang™ aeroplane version.\u003cbr\u003e\nSet includes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003ePlastic parts\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decals with two markings options from RAF squadrons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eColours and Markings options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eNorth American P-51C-1-NT Mustang™ III, 42-103532, FB382\/PK-G, 315 Squadron PAF, pilot: S\/Ldr Eugeniusz Horbaczewski, Coolham, June 1944 r.\u003cbr\u003e\n    North American P-51C-1-NT Mustang™ III, 42-103258, FB328\/GA-S, 112 Squadron RAF, airport Iesi, July-November 1944.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMore information about the kit\u003cbr\u003e\nProduced under license from Boeing. Boeing, P-51 Mustang and the distinctive Boeing logos, product markings and trade dress are trademarks of The Boeing Company.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe P-51B\/C versions of the Mustang entered service in the European Theatre of Operations towards the end of 1943, and went on to play a key role in breaking down the resistance of the Luftwaffe’s fighter arm – the Jagdverbände – throughout 1944. They were also used in the Mediterranean Theatre of Operations and in the Burma and China campaigns. Apart from providing escort cover, Mustangs flew ground support missions and were actively involved in combating the V-1 rockets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOf these, 900 were handed over to the RAF, the Polish Air Forces in Great Britain, the RAAF, the RACF and the Free French, who all operated them as the Mustang Mk III. Modifications made by the British included an improved cockpit canopy, which was known as the Malcolm hood and was also implemented in American P-51As and B\/Cs, anti-glare panels behind the exhaust pipes, and slats at the openings of the dust filter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe P-51B\/C was armed with four 12,7 mm wing-mounted machine guns, while underwing pylons allowed it carry 250- and 500-pound bombs, as well as aluminium or paper fuel tanks with a capacity of 75 and 108 gallons, respectively.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341711671563,"sku":"70039","price":19.8,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70039-north-american-p-51c-mustang-mk-iii-1160787052.jpg?v=1749036121"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70043-1-72-hurricane-mk-iib","title":"Hurricane Mk IIb","description":"\u003cp\u003eHurricane IIb 1\/72 kit\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBox contents\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals with two markings options\u003cbr\u003e\n    instruction with mask template\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341711704331,"sku":"70043","price":21.59,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70043-hurricane-mk-iib-1160787051.jpg?v=1749036119"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70044-1-72-hurricane-mk-iib-trop","title":"Hurricane Mk IIb (trop)","description":"\u003cp\u003eHurricane Mk IIb with tropical filter, plastic kit 1\/72. Set contents:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003ePlastic parts for Mk II b\/c version\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decals by Techmod with two markings options\u003cbr\u003e\n    Canopy mask template in instruction\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarkings options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eHurricane Mk.IIb trop BE400\/Z, 318 Squadron PAF,  LG Wilhelma, Palestyna, ‘Virile‘ exercise, October 1943.\u003cbr\u003e\n    Hurricane Mk.IIb trop Z5659\/WK-C, 135 Squadron RAF, Mingaladon, Burma, February 1942. P\/O William John 'Jack' Storey.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341711737099,"sku":"70044","price":21.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70044-hurricane-mk-iib-trop.jpg?v=1748868005"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70048-1-72-grumman-f4f-4-wildcat","title":"Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat","description":"\u003cp\u003eSet contents:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals with two markings options\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarkings options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eGrumman F4F-4 Wildcat®, squadron VMF-111, pilot: Sam Folsom, Western Samoa, Spring 1943\u003cbr\u003e\n    Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat®, squadron VF-11 Sundowners, Henderson Field, Guadalcanal 1943\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341711835403,"sku":"70048","price":18.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70048-grumman-f4f-4-wildcat-1160787047.jpg?v=1749036011"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70055-1-72-bell-p-39q-airacobra","title":"Bell P-39Q Airacobra","description":"\u003cp\u003e70055 P-39Q Airacobra\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePlastic model of the Bell P-39 Q Airacobra in 1\/72 scale. New tools, made in Poland.\u003cbr\u003e\nSet contains:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003ePlastic moldings\u003cbr\u003e\n    Masks for painting the cocpit canopy and wheels\u003cbr\u003e\n    13x12 cm decal with five variants of marking\u003cbr\u003e\n    Steel balls for nose weight\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarkings Versions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eP-39Q-10 Airacobra, 363rd Fighter Squadron, 357th Fighter Group, pilot Lt. Clarence “BUD” Anderson, Oroville, California, October 1943.\u003cbr\u003e\n    P-39Q-1 Airacobra, 46th Fighter Squadron, 15th Fighter Group, Makin, Gilbert Islands, late 1943.\u003cbr\u003e\n    P-39Q-15 Airacobra, 10° gruppo, 4° Stormo, Italian Co-Beligerent Air Force, Galatina Air Base, Italy, November 1944.\u003cbr\u003e\n    P-39Q-6 Airacobra, 82nd TRS, 71st Tactical Reconnaissance Group, pilot: Lt. Michael Moffitt, Saidor, New Guinea, Spring 1944.\u003cbr\u003e\n    P-39Q-20 Airacobra, 2nd Mixed-Special Air Regiment, Polish “people’s” Aviation, pilot gen. col. Fiodor Polynin, Warsaw 1945.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eP-39 Airacobra\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe P-39 Airacobra is one of the most interesting and innovative fighters of World War II - Bell designers equipped it with a front wheel, an engine in the centre of gravity of the airframe and a solid 37 mm cannon. The engine was originally equipped with a turbo-supercharger, which provided the prototype flown in the spring of 1939 with excellent performance at high altitudes. However, US aviation officials preferred less-complex propulsion, fit to operate at a lower altitude. The implementation of Airacobra into mass production and combat units coincided with the rapidly changing circumstances related to the outbreak of war in Europe, and then on the Eastern and Pacific fronts. The first orders for France and Great Britain were not fully delivered, some of them were transferred directly to the US forces fighting in the Pacific and North Africa. With the advent of more effective aircraft types, more than half of the 9,558 produced Cobras were sent under Lend-Lease to the Soviet Union, where the aircraft performed excellently: battles were fought at the low altitude for which the Airacobra was best suited. Of the top 10 Soviet aces, half flew Airacobras.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe most widely produced, in almost 5 thousand copies, and at the same time, the ultimate version of the Airacobra was the P-39Q. The plane was powered by a 1,200 hp Allison engine and differed from the previous versions by armament reinforced with two 0.50-inch machine guns in the underwing fairings. Most of the aeroplanes of this version went to the USSR, where they were used by, among others, the most outstanding pilots of the elite guard units. They were also used in combat by the US and Italy Co-Belligerent Air Forces, mainly performing ground-assault tasks. The ‘Q‘ Cobras were also widely used in the US for training, and many future aces got their wings on them before going to the front. In the post-war period, one P-39Q Airacobra was the personal hack of the Soviet general Fyodor Polynin, commanding the Polish ‘people's‘ aviation.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341711900939,"sku":"70055","price":25.2,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70055-bell-p-39q-airacobra.jpg?v=1748868025"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70056-1-72-bell-p-39n-airacobra","title":"Bell P-39N Airacobra","description":"\u003cp\u003e70056 P-39N Airacobra\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAssembly plastci model kit P-39N Airacobra, 1\/72 scale.\u003cbr\u003e\nKit content:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003ePlastic parts\u003cbr\u003e\n    Canopy and wheel masks\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decals (13x11 cm!) with three markings options (Soviet, US and French)\u003cbr\u003e\n    Steel balls for nose weight\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eColours and Markings Options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eP-39N Airacobra 42-9033 „White 01”. 100th Guards Fighter Regiment, pilots: Ivan Babak and Grigoriy Dol’nikov, 1943-1945 (two wariants).\u003cbr\u003e\n    P-39N Airacobra 42-18354. 345th Fighter Squadron, Sardinia-Corsica, spring 1944.\u003cbr\u003e\n    P-39N Airacobra 42-18736. Cdt. Jean Machet de la Martinière, GC 1\/4 Navarre commander. Reghaia airbase, Algeria, March 1944.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eP-39N Airacobra Fighter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe P-39 Airacobra is one of the most interesting and innovative fighters of World War II - Bell designers equipped it with a front wheel, an engine in the centre of gravity of the airframe and a solid 37 mm cannon. The engine was originally equipped with a turbo-supercharger, which provided the prototype flown in the spring of 1939 with excellent performance at high altitudes. However, US aviation officials preferred less-complex propulsion, fit to operate at a lower altitude. The implementation of Airacobra into mass production and combat units coincided with the rapidly changing circumstances related to the outbreak of war in Europe, and then on the Eastern and Pacific fronts. The first orders for France and Great Britain were not fully delivered, some of them were transferred directly to the US forces fighting in the Pacific and North Africa. With the advent of more effective aircraft types, more than half of the 9,558 produced Cobras were sent under Lend-Lease to the Soviet Union, where the aircraft performed excellently: battles were fought at the low altitude for which the Airacobra was best suited. Of the top 10 Soviet aces, half flew Airacobras.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDue to constant modifications resulting from both operational and purely technological needs, the first truly mass-produced version of the aircraft was only the P-39N. Over 2,000 Airacobras N were built, and used by the US Air Force in the Pacific, Africa and Europe, the French and Italians, but more than half went to the USSR, where the most outstanding aces of the elite Guards regiments flew them and achieved victories. The US Air Force replaced operational P-39N Airacobra fighters with newer types in late 1943 and early 1944, but in other countries they remained in active frontline service until the end of the war.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341711933707,"sku":"70056","price":25.16,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70056-bell-p-39n-airacobra.jpg?v=1748868029"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70058-1-72-bell-p-39n-q-airacobra","title":"Bell P-39N\/Q Airacobra","description":"\u003cp\u003eP-39 Airacobra Reconnaissance in 1\/72 scale\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA special reconnaissance version of the iconic P-39 Airacobra, equipped with an under-fuselage camera for reconnaissance missions. The model includes a 3D-printed set featuring two cameras and a template to help cut an opening in the fuselage underside for mounting.\u003cbr\u003e\nKit contents:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003ePlastic parts for model assembly\u003cbr\u003e\n    Masks for canopy and wheels\u003cbr\u003e\n    3D-printed cameras with mounting template\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decals with three marking options\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFree 3D file for self-printing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eQR code and link in the kit instructions to download free 3D file with accessories for self-printing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e3D file includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eseat with harness,\u003cbr\u003e\n    cockpit levers,\u003cbr\u003e\n    machine gun locks,\u003cbr\u003e\n    barrels,\u003cbr\u003e\n    exhaust stacks suitable for both P-39N and Q\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eColour and Marking Variants:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eP-39Q-6 Airacobra 42-19622. 4th Recconnaisance Squadron, 6th Air Force, Puerto Rico, October 1943\u003cbr\u003e\n    P-39Q-6 Airacobra, 82nd TRS, 71st Tactical Reconnaissance Group, pilot: Lt. William A. Shomo, New Guinea, 1944\u003cbr\u003e\n    P-39N-2 Airacobra, “Alan S”, 118th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, pilot Ltn. Earl J. Davis Jr, US East Coast, early 1943\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341711999243,"sku":"70058","price":21.59,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70058-bell-p-39nq-airacobra.jpg?v=1748868037"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70061-1-72-hawker-sea-hurricane-mk-ib","title":"Hawker Sea Hurricane Mk Ib","description":"\u003cp\u003eSea Hurricane Mk Ib, injected plastic model kit with 3D printed parts, 1\/72 scale\u003cbr\u003e\nSea Hurricane Ib Kit includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eArma Hobby Hurricane Mk.I injected plastic sprues\u003cbr\u003e\n    3D printed set with fuselage bottom, arrestor hook, exhausts (2 options), mirror, headrest, gun camera, oil collector ring, catapult spools and anti-glare exhaust shields.\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decal with 5 marking options\u003cbr\u003e\n    Painting masks for the canopy (kabuki paper)\u003cbr\u003e\n    Correction panels for wing flaps (vinyl)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarking options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eSea Hurricane IB, Z7153 “F”, No. 801 Naval Air Squadron, aircraft carrier HMS Eagle, Operation Pedestal, August 1942\u003cbr\u003e\n    Sea Hurricane IB, V6695 “K”, No. 801 Naval Air Squadron, aircraft carrier HMS Eagle, Operation Pedestal, August 1942\u003cbr\u003e\n    Sea Hurricane IB, AF953 “A”, No. 802 Naval Air Squadron, aircraft carrier HMS Avenger, summer 1942\u003cbr\u003e\n    Sea Hurricane IB, V7506 “7T”, No. 885 Naval Air Squadron, aircraft carrier HMS Victorious, Operation Pedestal, August 1942\u003cbr\u003e\n    Sea Hurricane IB, Z4849 “7G”, pilot: Sub\/Lt Hugh Popham, No. 880 Naval Air Squadron, Operation Pedestal, aircraft carrier HMS Indomitable, August 1942\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341713670411,"sku":"70061","price":26.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70061-hawker-sea-hurricane-mk-ib.jpg?v=1748868047"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70062-1-72-hawker-hurricane-mk-iid-iid-trop","title":"Hawker Hurricane Mk IId \/ IId (trop)","description":"\u003cp\u003eModel of the Hurricane Mk II D 1\/72 scale.\u003cbr\u003e\nSet contains:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003ePlastic parts (Mk IIc)\u003cbr\u003e\n    Conversion - 3D printed cannons, exhaust manifold, mirror, template for scribing panel on wings.\u003cbr\u003e\n    Canopy and wheel masks\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decals with 5 colour schemes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarkings options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eBP158\/JV-I, No. 6 Squadron RAF, airfields: Shandur and L.G. 89, Egypt, autumn 1942.\u003cbr\u003e\n    KW704\/R „Christine‘, No. 6 Squadron RAF, Gabes, Tunisia, April 1943. Pilot F\/O A.H.M. Clarke. \u003cbr\u003e\n    HW721\/BR-J, No. 184 Squadron RAF, Colerne, England, spring 1943. Pilot S\/Ldr Jack Rose.  Aeroplane funded by Woolwich Aircraft Fund.\u003cbr\u003e\n    KX229\/H ‘Cheeta‘, No. 20 Squadron RAF, Nidania, Burma, February 1944.\u003cbr\u003e\n    HW874\/X, No. 20 Squadron RAF, Monywa, Burma, spring 1945.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOnline reviews:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHurricane Mk II D\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mk.IID was the most specialised Hurricane variant to enter series production, around 300 being made. Armed with two 40mm Vickers 'S' guns and a pair of 0.303 guns loaded with tracer for sighting. The 40mm guns had 15 shells in each magazine, plus shell could be loaded into the gun giving 16.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe guns were set to be harmonised at 400 yards, and to be fired at 240 m.p.h, flying at a very low level, 20 to 40 feet, firing 2 or 3 shots each attack pass. The aircraft speed is added to the shells velocity, increasing armour piercing capability. The 40 mm guns could not be jettisoned. They proved to be very accurate once pilots were trained in their use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMaking its debut in 1942 with No. 6 Squadron in North Africa, who came to enjoy the nickname, The Flying Tin Openers, with a badge to match (see decals of BP158).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe IID was also used by 7 Sq. SAAF in North Africa, 184 and 164 Sq's in the UK which were used in cross channel sweeps against ground targets and shipping, and in Burma by 5 and 20 Sq's.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the IID was effective, it was also vulnerable, and later production examples included the same armour fitted to the Mk.IV.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt was also limited as it could only carry the 40mm guns, but the success in the anti-tank role led to the development of the Mk.IV, with a universal armament wing, capable of carrying the 40mm guns, but rockets, bombs and drop tanks, making a much more versatile type, and added internal and external armour, replacing the IID in service, though units did use both together. The last Mk.IID and Mk.IV were built at the same time, possibly to use up already made D wings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith the availability of the Mk.IV, most of the later IID's went to the Soviet Union who received 60, the other surviving IID's ended\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341713703179,"sku":"70062","price":26.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70062-hawker-hurricane-mk-iid-iid-trop-1160787038.jpg?v=1749036003"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70063-1-72-hawker-sea-hurricane-mk-iic-x","title":"Hawker Sea Hurricane Mk IIc \/ X","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341713735947,"sku":"70063","price":26.96,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70063-hawker-sea-hurricane-mk-iic-x-1160787037.jpg?v=1749035999"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70065-1-72-grumman-f4f-4-wildcat-martlet-mk-ii","title":"Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat \/ Martlet Mk II","description":"\u003cp\u003eF4F-4 Wildcat® ‘Operation Torch‘ plastic kit\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAssembly plastic model kit of an aeroplane\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts\u003cbr\u003e\n    cockpit canopy and wheel masks\u003cbr\u003e\n    decals with three marking variants\u003cbr\u003e\n    free digital file - download code\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe set includes three historical markings options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eF4F-4 Wildcat, “3512\/29-GF-10”, squadron VGF-29, crash-landed on the USS Santee during Operation Torch, November 1942\u003cbr\u003e\n    F4F-4 Wildcat, “8-26”, squadron VGF-27, Guadalcanal, April 1943\u003cbr\u003e\n    Martlet II, “AJ148 \/ Ø-7A”, No. 888 FAA Squadron from carrier HMS Formidable, Oran, Algeria, December 1942.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFree 3D file for printing accessories for F4F-4 and FM-1 (QR code to download in manual)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eIncludes seat with harness, cockpit levers details, two bombs with racks, gun barrels, whell bay chains, exhaust pipes and engine ignition ring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eFile for self-printing on a 3D resin printer, consumer license for non commercial use\u003cbr\u003e\n    See the therms and regulations for using files §4a link.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe product is available in the form of 3D files in STL format. It is a universal format for sharing 3D printable files.\u003cbr\u003e\nWildcat fighters in Operation Torch\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat was one of the main carrier-based fighters used by the US Navy and Royal Navy during World War II. It was called the Martlet II by the British. Known for its ruggedness and good adaptation to operating from aircraft carriers, the aircraft took part in many important naval battles in 1942-43. The F4F-4 version, equipped with folding wings, made it possible to increase the number of aircraft aboard escort carriers, which was important in operations in the Pacific, Atlantic and Mediterranean.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDuring Operation Torch in November 1942, F4F-4 Wildcats stationed on the aircraft carrier USS Ranger and three escort carriers (USS Suwanee, Sangamon and Santee), as well as British Martlets from the carriers HMS Formidable and Victorious, supported the landing of Allied forces in North Africa. The planes wore distinctive yellow borders around the American stars on the fuselage and wings. American stars also marked British aircraft at the time. The idea was to identify them quickly against the Vichy government's French planes, but also to neutralize the resentment of the French against the British.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAfter this operation, American escort carriers with Wildcats moved on to new assignments in the Pacific, supporting operations in the Solomon Islands, including the battles for Guadalcanal. The yellow markings from Operation Torch were then painted over with a camouflage colour, which can be seen in photos as a fresh border around the stars. British aircraft after Operation Torch were quickly repainted with standard British markings of the period.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341713768715,"sku":"70065","price":22.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70065-grumman-f4f-4-wildcat-martlet-mk-ii.jpg?v=1748868058"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70067-1-72-north-american-p-51b-c-mustang","title":"North American P-51B\/C Mustang","description":"\u003cp\u003e70067 P-51B\/C Mustang™\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eP-51B\/C Mustang™, plastic kit 1\/72 scale.\u003cbr\u003e\nKit includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003ePlastic parts by Arma Hobby\u003cbr\u003e\n    Canopy and wheels painting mask\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decals with four colour options\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarkings options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eP-51B-5-NA Mustang, 43-6315\/AJ-A, „Ding Hao”, pilot: Maj. James H. Howard MH, 356th Fighter Squadron, 354th Fighter Group, Boxted, UK. April 1944 r.                                \u003cbr\u003e\n    Mustang III, KH516\/WC-F, pilot: Kpt. Jerzy Mencel DFC, 309 Squadron Polish Air Forces, shot down Me-262 jet fighter, 9th April 1945.\u003cbr\u003e\n    P-51C-10-NT Mustang, 43-25045\/C3-W, „Snookie”, pilot: Lt. Edward T. Pawlak, 382nd Fighter Squadron, 363rd Fighter Group, France, July1944 r.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMore information about the kit\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eArticles about kit content and historical research of colour options are available on the armahobbynews website link.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eProduced under license from Boeing. Boeing, P-51 Mustang and the distinctive Boeing logos, product markings and trade dress are trademarks of The Boeing Company.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHistoria Mustanga:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePodczas ofensywy lotniczej nad III Rzeszą Siły Powietrzne Armii Amerykańskiej (USAAF) potrzebowały dobrego i taniego myśliwca dalekiego zasięgu, który towarzyszyłby bombowcom na dużej wysokości w drodze do celu. Pierwsze wersje samolotu P-51\/P-51A Mustang z silnikiem Allison sprawdziły się jako maszyna myśliwska i rozpoznawcza operująca na niskim pułapie, jednak brak drugiego biegu sprężarki silnika nie pozwalał na uzyskanie zadowalających osiągów na wysokości powyżej 4,5 tys.  m.  Myśliwce P-47 nie mogły latać tak daleko, a P-38 nie były dostępne w wystarczającej liczbie. Rozwiązaniem tego problemu było zainstalowanie w płatowcu P-51A brytyjskiego silnika Rolls-Royce Merlin 66 (stosowano go w Spitfire IX\/XVI) z dwustopniową sprężarką, produkowanego już w USA na licencji w zakładach Packard pod zaznaczeniem V-1650. Powstała w ten sposób wersja, P-51B Mustang, była zdolna do lotu z Anglii do Berlina i rozwiązywała problem eskorty dziennych nalotów bombowych nad Niemcy. Masową produkcję nowej wersji Mustanga prowadzono w zakładach North American w Kalifornii pod oznaczeniem P-51B-NA i w Teksasie pod oznaczeniem P-51C-NT. Samoloty wersji produkcyjnych różniły się drobnymi szczegółami wprowadzanymi wraz z rozwojem konstrukcji, jak np.: dodatkowy zbiornik paliwa za kabiną pilota czy płetwa stabilizacyjna przez statecznikiem pionowym. Ponad dwieście sztuk przebudowano w wersję fotorozpoznawczą F-6C przez zabudowanie kamer w kadłubie za kabiną pilota. Łącznie wyprodukowano 3738 samolotów wersji B i C. Aż 900 z nich, pod oznaczeniem Mustang Mk III, przekazano do RAF oraz do Polskich Sił Powietrznych, RAAF, RCAF i Wolnych Francuzów. Brytyjskie modyfikacje to udoskonalona owiewka kabiny tzw. Malcolm Hood (wprowadzona też w amerykańskich P-51A oraz B\/C), osłony przeciwodblaskowe za rurami wydechowymi i skrzela na otworach filtra przeciwpyłowego. Myśliwce P-51B\/C były uzbrojone w 4 km kalibru 12,7 mm w skrzydłach. Na zaczepach podskrzydłowych przenosiły bomby 250 i 500 funtowe oraz aluminiowe zbiorniki paliwa o pojemności 75 galonów i papierowe - 108 galonów. Samoloty P-51B\/C Mustang wprowadzono do służby na europejskim teatrze działań pod koniec 1943 roku. Odegrały one kluczową rolę w złamaniu oporu lotnictwa myśliwskiego niemieckiej Luftwaffe w 1944 roku. Służyły także w rejonie Morza Śródziemnego oraz na birmańsko-chińskim teatrze działań wojennych. Obok zadań eskortowych Mustangi wykonywały działania wsparcia naziemnego i zwalczania rakiet V-1. Od połowy 1944 roku były stopniowo zastępowane przez samoloty nowej wersji P-51D\/K.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341713801483,"sku":"70067","price":26.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70067-north-american-p-51b-c-mustang-1160787035.jpg?v=1749035897"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70070-1-72-north-american-p-51d-mustang","title":"North American P-51D Mustang","description":"\u003cp\u003eP-51D Mustang™ Model in 1\/72 Scale\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNew Arma Hobby 2024 Molds\u003cbr\u003e\nIncluded in the Set\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eSprues with parts to build of most versions of the aircraft straight from the box.\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decals with markings for three aircraft.\u003cbr\u003e\n    Masks for the canopy and wheels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCan't wait for the model and promotions? Sign up for our Newsletter!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eProduced under license from Boeing. Boeing, P-51 Mustang and the distinctive Boeing logos, product markings and trade dress are trademarks of The Boeing Company.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341713932555,"sku":"70070","price":22.48,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70070-north-american-p-51d-mustang-1160787034.jpg?v=1749022937"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70078-1-72-nakajima-ki-43-ii-ko-hayabusa-oscar","title":"Nakajima Ki-43-II Ko Hayabusa ‘Oscar’","description":"\u003cp\u003eNakajima Ki-43 II Hayabusa Model Kit in 1\/72 Scale\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNew Arma Hobby 2024 Molds\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCan't wait for the model and promotions? Sign up for our Newsletter!\u003cbr\u003e\nKit contains:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003ePlastic sprues (grey and clear)\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decals for three marking options\u003cbr\u003e\n    Self-adhesive masks for painting the canopy and wheels\u003cbr\u003e\n    Instructions\u003cbr\u003e\n    File for 3D self-printing with detals\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFree 3D file for self-printing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eQR code and link in the kit instructions to download free 3D file with accessories for self-printing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e3D file includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eexhaust pipes - two types\u003cbr\u003e\n    former with pilot's seat and seatbelts\u003cbr\u003e\n    gun barrels\u003cbr\u003e\n    oil cooler\u003cbr\u003e\n    fuel cooler\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarking options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eNakajima Ki-43 II Hayabusa, 59th Hiko-Sentai, 3rd Hutai, New Guinea 1943-44\u003cbr\u003e\n    Nakajima Ki-43 II Hayabusa, 54th Hiko-Sentai, 2nd Hutai, Pilot: Capt Hisashi Koshiishi, Paramushir, Kuriles 1944\u003cbr\u003e\n    Nakajima Ki-43 II Hayabusa, Hiko Dai 71 Sentai training aircraft, Hofu Airfield, Japan, late 1944\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNakajima Ki-43 II Hayabusa 70078\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Nakajima Ki-43 Hayabusa (Falcon) fighter, nicknamed ‘Oscar’ in Allied code, was Japan's equivalent of the Spitfire and the Messerschmitt Bf-109 - it was a core piece of the Imperial Japanese Army Aviation throughout the Second World War, and was refined and produced in successive versions during all that period. Although it remained somewhat in the shadow of the naval Mitsubishi ‘Zero’, famous on the Pacific front thanks to its spectacular carrier battles, the Hayabusa played a major role in the battles over the Asian continent: over China, Burma, Malaya, but also over the Philippines and New Guinea. There it fought effectively against the air forces of China, the USA, Great Britain, Australia and the Netherlands, making a major contribution to the initial great victories of the Japanese.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ki-43 fighter was developed in the late ‘30s at the Nakajima factory under the direction of Hideo Itokawa, based on experience with the highly successful Ki-27 airframe, which had proved excellent in combat over China. The design of the Ki-43 was based on the specific concept of a light aircraft, with excellent manoeuvrability and climb and good speed, achieved at the cost of a rather fragile structure, weak armament and virtually no armour. This corresponded to the Japanese doctrine of sophisticated manoeuvre combat, requiring masterful training and great courage of the pilots. Interestingly, the Hayabusa was powered by the same engine as the ‘Zero’. In the early period of the war, when the Japanese armies were conquering more and more areas of Southeast Asia, the Ki-43 was no match for its opponents, easily defeating Hurricanes or Buffalos. Later, however, the ‘Oscars’ became increasingly obsolete and their lightweight construction did not allow for major improvements. In 1944 they began to be replaced on the main production lines and in combat units by the excellent Ki-84 Hayate, but until the end of the war their production was maintained and they were also used in combat, including in Kamikaze units.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341713965323,"sku":"70078","price":19.8,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70078-nakajima-ki-43-ii-ko-hayabusa-oscar-1160787033.jpg?v=1749022934"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70079-1-72-nakajima-ki-43-ii-otsu-hayabusa-oscar","title":"Nakajima Ki-43-II Otsu Hayabusa ‘Oscar’","description":"\u003cp\u003eKi-43 II Foreign Service Model Kit in 1\/72 Scale\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNew Arma Hobby 2024 Molds\u003cbr\u003e\nKit contains:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003ePlastic sprues (grey and clear)\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decals for three marking options\u003cbr\u003e\n    Self-adhesive masks for painting the canopy and wheels\u003cbr\u003e\n    Instructions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFree 3D file for self-printing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eQR code and link in the kit instructions to download free 3D file with accessories for self-printing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e3D file includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eexhaust pipes - two types\u003cbr\u003e\n    former with pilot's seat and seatbelts\u003cbr\u003e\n    gun barrels\u003cbr\u003e\n    oil cooler\u003cbr\u003e\n    fuel cooler\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarking options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eNakajima Ki-43 II Hayabusa, 2nd Hiko Tai, Manchukuoan Air Force 1944\u003cbr\u003e\n    Nakajima Ki-43 II Hayabusa, 15th Hiko Chutai, Royal Thai Airforce, Don Muang airport, summer 1943\u003cbr\u003e\n    Nakajima Ki-43 II Hayabusa, 8th Fighter Squadron, 49th Fighter Group, Hollandia, May-June 1944\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eKi-43 II Foreign Service 70079\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Nakajima Ki-43 Hayabusa (Falcon) fighter, nicknamed ‘Oscar’ in Allied code, was Japan's equivalent of the Spitfire and the Messerschmitt Bf-109 - it was a core piece of the Imperial Japanese Army Aviation throughout the Second World War, and was refined and produced in successive versions during all that period. Although it remained somewhat in the shadow of the naval Mitsubishi ‘Zero’, famous on the Pacific front thanks to its spectacular carrier battles, the Hayabusa played a major role in the battles over the Asian continent: over China, Burma, Malaya, but also over the Philippines and New Guinea. There it fought effectively against the air forces of China, the USA, Great Britain, Australia and the Netherlands, making a major contribution to the initial great victories of the Japanese.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHayabusa fighters also found their way into the air forces of other countries. Japan's allies, such as Thailand and puppet Manchukuo, used them during the Second World War, while after the war many of the machines left behind or captured from the Japanese were used by the French, Chinese, and, for testing, the U.S., among others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ki-43 fighter was developed in the late ‘30s at the Nakajima factory under the direction of Hideo Itokawa, based on experience with the highly successful Ki-27 airframe, which had proved excellent in combat over China. The design of the Ki-43 was based on the specific concept of a light aircraft, with excellent manoeuvrability and climb and good speed, achieved at the cost of a rather fragile structure, weak armament and virtually no armour. This corresponded to the Japanese doctrine of sophisticated manoeuvre combat, requiring masterful training and great courage of the pilots. Interestingly, the Hayabusa was powered by the same engine as the ‘Zero’. In the early period of the war, when the Japanese armies were conquering more and more areas of Southeast Asia, the Ki-43 was no match for its opponents, easily defeating Hurricanes or Buffalos. Later, however, the ‘Oscars’ became increasingly obsolete and their lightweight construction did not allow for major improvements. In 1944 they began to be replaced on the main production lines and in combat units by the excellent Ki-84 Hayate, but until the end of the war their production was maintained and they were also used in combat, including in Kamikaze units.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341714063627,"sku":"70079","price":19.8,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70079-nakajima-ki-43-ii-otsu-hayabusa-oscar-1160787032.jpg?v=1749022931"},{"product_id":"arma-hobby-70080-1-72-curtiss-hawk-75-a1-a2","title":"Curtiss Hawk 75 A1\/A2","description":"\u003cp\u003eCurtiss H-75 A1\/A2 model kit in 1\/72 scale 70080\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNew Arma Hobby 2025 moulds!\u003cbr\u003e\nKit contains:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003ePlastic sprues (2 grey and 1 clear)\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decals for three marking options (2 French and 1 Polish in France)\u003cbr\u003e\n    Self-adhesive masks for painting the canopy and wheels\u003cbr\u003e\n    Instructions\u003cbr\u003e\n    File with details for 3D self-printing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFree 3D file for self-printing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eQR code and link in the kit instructions to download free 3D file with accessories for self-printing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e3D file includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eBulkhead with seat and seatbelts\u003cbr\u003e\n    Instrument panel with rudder pedals\u003cbr\u003e\n    Exhaust tubes with covers\u003cbr\u003e\n    Gun barrels\u003cbr\u003e\n    Reflector gunsight\u003cbr\u003e\n    Ring and bead gunsight\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarking options:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eCurtiss H-75 A2 no. 107 (U007), GC 1\/55, pilot 1Lt. Jan Zumbach. Bordeaux, June 1940.\u003cbr\u003e\n    Curtiss H-75 A1 no. 16 (U015), 1. escadrille GC I\/5, pilot Sgt Léon Vuillemain. Reims, Spring 1939.\u003cbr\u003e\n    Curtiss H-75 A1 no. 35 (X834) , 3. escadrille GC II\/5 “La Fayette”, pilot Adj. Marcel Dougoujon. Toul-Croix-de Metz, November 1939.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCurtiss H-75 A1\/A2 70080\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1935, a modern, metal, monoplane fighter with retractable landing gear, designed at the Curtiss-Wright plant for a competition organised by the US Army Air Corps, took to the air for the first time. The manufacturer named it the Curtiss Hawk Model 75, and after refinement it proved to be one of the finest and most modern aircraft of the early period of the World War II. Its performance was all very good, it was noted for its excellent manoeuvrability, superior to the Messerschmitt Bf-109 and Hurricane.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n \u003cp\u003eIts various versions, produced in excess of 1,000, were used by the air forces of over a dozen countries from South Africa to Finland and from Brazil to China - under various names.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe most important user of the Curtiss H-75 was France. Ordered in several series marked A1 to A4, differing in armament and engines, they were delivered in more than 400 examples. They proved to be the finest fighters used by the Armée de l'air in the early months of the Second World War. Many French aces fought and scored victories over the Luftwaffe on aircraft of this type, as well as Polish and Czechoslovak pilots who fought in the defence of France. After the armistice, numerous Curtisses were evacuated to French Africa, where they formed the backbone of the Vichy state's aviation. Some of the French aircraft captured by the Germans were handed over to Finland, where they successfully fought against the Red Army until the end of the war.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAll serial Curtiss H75s were equipped with radial engines. When the airframe was adapted to the Allison inline engine, a completely new and legendary aircraft was created: The Curtiss P-40, produced in over 13,000 examples.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Arma Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51341714096395,"sku":"70080","price":20.69,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/arma-hobby-70080-curtiss-hawk-75-a1-a2-1160787031.jpg?v=1749022929"},{"product_id":"airfix-a01003b-1-72-curtiss-p-40b-warhawk","title":"Curtiss P-40B Warhawk","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe P-40 served the United States Army Air Force throughout the Second World War, fighting in Europe, across Asia and in the deserts of North Africa. 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American pilots soon developed tactics that avoided playing into the hands of the Zero and began to score victories.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eAs newer fighters began to enter service, the A6M Zero began to show its weaknesses, which were a lack of armour protection for the pilot and no self-sealing fuel tanks in the wing. 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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.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234357608715,"sku":"A02041B","price":10.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a02041b-hawker-typhoon-mk-ib.jpg?v=1749030774"},{"product_id":"airfix-a02047a-1-72-north-american-f-51d-mustang","title":"North American F-51D Mustang","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe North American P-51 Mustang is regarded by many as one of the most iconic American fighters of the Second World War. Designed to fulfil an RAF specification, the Mustang was transformed once the Rolls Royce Merlin engine was installed. The P-51D model's long range and excellent firepower made it a superb escort fighter, able to protect the bombers all the way to Berlin and back. The P-51 is recorded as being the top scoring Allied fighter of the war with 4,950 enemy aircraft destroyed. In 1948 the type designation for the Mustang changed to F-51D and it continued in USAF and RAAF service as a ground attack aircraft through the Korean War.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234357641483,"sku":"A02047A","price":10.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a02047a-north-american-f-51d-mustang.jpg?v=1749030777"},{"product_id":"airfix-a02052b-1-72-gloster-gladiator-mk-i-ii","title":"Gloster Gladiator Mk I \/ II","description":"\u003cp\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 when confronting aircraft of its own era, it performed well.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234357674251,"sku":"A02052B","price":10.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a02052b-gloster-gladiator-mk-i-ii.jpg?v=1749030780"},{"product_id":"airfix-a02066a-1-72-focke-wulf-fw-190-a-8-f-8","title":"Focke-Wulf Fw 190 A-8 \/ F-8","description":"\u003cp\u003eFirst flying in 1939, the Focke-Wulf FW190 was an immediate threat to RAF fighters when introduced in late 1941, being faster and more manoeuvrable than the Spitfire V then in service.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eThe F-8 was the ground-attack version and differed primarily in its lack of outboard cannons. 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It was the RAF’s first production aircraft to exceed 300mph and the first multi-gun monoplane fighter in RAF service. Thirty-two Squadrons of Hurricanes saw action during the Battle of Britain.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234358231307,"sku":"A02067A","price":10.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a02067a-hawker-hurricane-mk-i-mk-i-trop.jpg?v=1749030786"},{"product_id":"airfix-a02069-1-72-boulton-paul-defiant-mk-i-nf-mk-i","title":"Boulton Paul Defiant Mk I \/ NF Mk I","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Boulton-Paul Defiant was the only 'turret fighter' to enter service with the RAF. The Defiant used the philosophy that a fighter aircraft, armed solely with a turret bristling with machine guns would be able to enter a bomber stream causing havoc and the turret would also enable it to defend itself from enemy fighters.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eDuring its first few engagements during the Battle of Britain in 1940, enemy pilots were taken by surprise and the Defiant fared well but soon the Luftwaffe pilots worked out its weaknesses, especially the lack of forward firing guns and the Defiant was soon relegated to night fighting duties were it fared better.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234358264075,"sku":"A02069","price":10.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a02069-boulton-paul-defiant-mk-i-nf-mk-i-1160786969.jpg?v=1749035283"},{"product_id":"airfix-a02070a-1-72-grumman-f4f-4-wildcat","title":"Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe F4F Wildcat was the US Navy's primary carrier borne fighter aircraft at the start of the Second World War. Characterised by its stubby appearance the Wildcat had been developed as part of a successful range of pre-war biplanes and had entered service with the US Navy a year prior to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. By the time of the crucial battles for Midway and Guadalcanal the F4F-4 model had become the most numerous variant and new tactics enabled American naval and marine pilots to gain the upper hand on the previously all-conquering Mitsubishi Zero.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234358296843,"sku":"A02070A","price":10.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a02070a-grumman-f4f-4-wildcat-1160786968.jpg?v=1749035279"},{"product_id":"airfix-a02101-1-72-royal-aircraft-factory-b-e-2c","title":"Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2c","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe stable flight characteristics of the government-designed Royal Aircraft Factory BE2c made it an ideal home-defence night-fighter aircraft. It famously claimed the destruction of the first German airship over Britain on 3rd September 1916, earning pilot Lt. William Leefe Robinson a Victoria Cross.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234358329611,"sku":"A02101","price":10.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a02101-royal-aircraft-factory-b-e-2c-1160786967.jpg?v=1749035178"},{"product_id":"airfix-a02108a-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vc","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vc","description":"\u003cp\u003eAs a thoroughbred of the aviation world, the Supermarine Spitfire underwent constant development throughout WWII, with new versions of the fighter never too far away from joining RAF squadrons.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eThe aircraft which fought the Battle of Britain were scheduled to undergo significant upgrade, however, whilst still in development, the Luftwaffe introduced their latest variant of Bf 109 fighter, one which was shooting down Spitfires in large numbers - urgent action was needed.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Spitfire Mk.V was effectively an upgraded Mk.II airframe, fitted with the latest version of Merlin engine, one which gave the aircraft greater high altitude performance and this variant would eventually equip more than 140 RAF Squadrons.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234358493451,"sku":"A02108A","price":10.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a02108a-supermarine-spitfire-mk-vc-1160786963.jpg?v=1749035166"},{"product_id":"airfix-a02110-1-72-hawker-tempest-mk-v","title":"Hawker Tempest Mk V","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn aircraft which has to be considered one of the finest aeroplanes of the Second World War, the Hawker Tempest V could trace its design lineage back to the Hurricane fighters which proved so decisive during the Battle of Britain only two years earlier, but would represent the absolute zenith of piston engined fighter design. Indeed, when accomplished designer Sydney Camm was looking to produce his '˜Super Hurricane'™ replacement for the aviation saviour of the Battle of Britain, the aircraft he surely had in mind was the Tempest V. As it was, the Tempest is often confused with its predecessor in Royal Air Force service, the Typhoon, even though the two are very different aeroplanes.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eThe original fighter replacement for the Hawker Hurricane was the Typhoon, an aircraft which attempted to combine the most powerful piston engine available at the time with a small, yet strong and heavily armed airframe. Although intended as an interceptor fighter, it became apparent during development that the new aircraft would not be able to fulfil this role, as the thickness of the wing was not conducive to high performance at high altitude. In fact, the Typhoon would endure quite a troubled development and service introduction, to the point where cancellation of the programme was seriously considered at one time. Nevertheless, the Typhoon would eventually go on to find its aviation niche as a hard-hitting ground attack aircraft and one which would come into its own during the time of the Allied invasion of Normandy.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eAware that their Typhoon had great potential but was in need of improvement, the Hawker design team started work on a new fighter project, one which incorporated many of the same philosophies as Typhoon, but also, several significant modifications. Indeed, the new aircraft was initially referred to as the Typhoon Mark II, but this was changed to Tempest as the prototype aircraft'™s first flight approached. Although this was still a big aeroplane for a single engined fighter, its airframe was light and it would be powered by the massively powerful 24 cylinder Napier Sabre engine, a powerplant which would give the new fighter spectacular performance. Making its first flight on 2nd September 1942, the new Hawker Tempest featured a newly designed laminar flow wing, which was much thinner than the wing used on its predecessor and allowed the new fighter to slip through the air at incredible speed.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eAt first glance, the Typhoon and Tempest do share many similarities, however, if you know where to look, it is not difficult to tell them apart. Without doubt, the wing is the most obvious distinguishing feature, as not only is this thinner than the one used on the Typhoon, it is also a completely different shape. With a straighter leading edge and more elliptical trailing edge, the Tempest'™s wing was designed for speed, even though it could still be used effectively in a ground attack role. Other Tempest design differences include a slightly longer nose and a tail section which appears to be much larger, with a more generous vertical stabiliser which features a pronounced dorsal fillet. During the prototype aircraft'™s maiden flight, it posted an impressive top speed of 477 mph in level flight, impressing both the design team and the watching Air Ministry.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hawker Tempest V entered Royal Air Force service in early 1944, with the first two squadrons to receive the type having both previously operated the Typhoon. It was thought that managing the incredible power generated by the Tempest'™s engine could pose problems for pilots converting from smaller aircraft types and that former Typhoon units would be best placed to negotiate its squadron introduction. In advance of the D-day landings, Tempests were being used in a similar ground attack role to the one being flown so effectively by Typhoon squadrons, however, should it be required to make the shift to air combat operations mid-mission, the Tempest was much more suited to this task. Possessing significantly greater range than the Typhoon, Tempests could loiter in the combat zone for longer periods, allowing offensive strikes deeper into occupied Europe, or allowing pilots to wait patiently for the Luftwaffe to come up and fight, where they could show them what their new fighter could really do.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eAs the fastest Allied fighter at low and medium altitudes, Tempest squadrons were held back for home defence duties in the weeks which followed the successful D-day landings, due to the onslaught of a sinister new weapon, the V-1 '˜Doodlebug'™ pulse jet flying bomb. The Tempest proved to be an excellent V-1 killer, using the speed of the fighter, effectiveness of its guns and bravery of its pilots to destroy large numbers of these terrifying weapons before they could wreak their havoc on British towns and cities. Britain'™s most effective force against these indiscriminate weapons, hundreds of Doodlebugs were shot down by the RAF'™s Hawker Tempest V squadrons, with Squadron Leader Joseph Berry proving to be the most proficient at this work, with no fewer than 61 V-1 '˜kills'™ to his name.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eWith the V-1 threat diminishing, the RAF'™s Tempest V squadrons were free to embark on aggressive seek and destroy missions into occupied Europe, using the speed, range and firepower of their latest fighter to great effect. Looking for potential V-1 launch sites and increasingly, the new German jet fighters which had started operating against the Allied air forces, the Tempest began to show that it was undoubtedly one of the most capable fighting aeroplanes in the world. Indeed, it has been reported that the aggressively flown Tempest was the Allied aircraft Messerschmitt Me262 jet pilots most feared during those early days of jet powered operations, particularly if they were caught during the landing and taking off phases of flight, when their jets were much more vulnerable.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eThere is no doubt that the Hawker Tempest V was a real brute of an aeroplane, fast, heavily armed and possessing performance which could better any fighter the Luftwaffe had in service, perhaps with the exception of the Me262 at full speed. Pilots who had experience flying both the Tempest V and its predecessor, the Typhoon, describe the difference as being like night and day - they actually said that it was like comparing a cart horse with a race horse. Although this seems a little harsh, as they flew the aircraft in combat, we should certainly bow to their judgement. Although appearing relatively late in WWII, the Tempest V still takes its place as one of the most effective piston engined fighters of the Second World War and was perhaps the '˜Super Hurricane'™ designer Sydney Camm had always envisaged developing.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234358526219,"sku":"A02110","price":10.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a02110-hawker-tempest-mk-v-1160786962.jpg?v=1749035163"},{"product_id":"airfix-a03087a-1-72-junkers-ju-87-b-1-stuka","title":"Junkers Ju 87 B-1 Stuka","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Junkers Ju87 Stuka quickly became one of the most infamous and feared weapons of the Second World War. The two-man dive bomber first saw action in the skies over Spain during the Spanish Civil War. 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Later the Stuka was used in the Balkan sand the Western Desert, and continued to sever in Russia, as a tank destroyer, until the end of the Second World War.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNo Airfix collection is complete without an aircraft as fearsome as the Junkers Ju87 Stuka.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNow available in 1:72 scale and with 2 livery schemes and sprues and decals, the Stuka will look just as powerful in your model range as it did in the sky.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234358591755,"sku":"A03087A","price":16.19,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a03087a-junkers-ju-87-b-1-stuka-1160786960.jpg?v=1749035058"},{"product_id":"airfix-a03090a-1-72-messerschmitt-me-262-a-1a-a-2a","title":"Messerschmitt Me 262 A-1a \/ A-2a","description":"\u003cp\u003eRepresenting the primary production variant of the Messerschmitt Me262 jet, the A-1A was the fighter-bomber version of the aircraft desired by Hitler, capable of being used as an interceptor, or configured to carry bombs and air-to-air mortars on nose mounted pylons.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eWith the aircraft’s powerful nose mounted cannons used to devastating effect against the massed formations of USAAF bombers attacking Germany, the offensive firepower of the jets could be further enhanced by the addition of R4M ‘Orkan’ (Hurricane) rocket packs under each wing.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eMounted on rudimentary racks made from wood, twelve R4M stabilised rockets could be carried under each wing, each one capable of bringing down an enemy bomber.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234358624523,"sku":"A03090A","price":16.19,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a03090a-messerschmitt-me-262-a-1a-a-2a-1160786959.jpg?v=1749035055"},{"product_id":"airfix-a03091a-1-72-mikoyan-gurevich-mig-17f-fresco-c","title":"Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17F Fresco C","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe end of the Second World War saw victorious Allied nations desperately attempting to secure details of German jet technology and high-speed research data which could be applied to their own jet projects. 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Two beautifully restored examples have also been popular display performers on the US Airshow circuit over the years.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234358657291,"sku":"A03091A","price":16.19,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a03091a-mikoyan-gurevich-mig-17f-fresco-c-1160786958.jpg?v=1749035052"},{"product_id":"airfix-a04054a-1-72-english-electric-lightning-f-2a","title":"English Electric Lightning F.2A","description":"\u003cp\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\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234358853899,"sku":"A04054A","price":22.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a04054a-english-electric-lightning-f-2a-1160786954.jpg?v=1749035040"},{"product_id":"airfix-a04059-1-72-bristol-blenheim-mk-if","title":"Bristol Blenheim Mk If","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Bristol Blenheim was conceived as a privately funded high-speed civilian aircraft, intended to wrestle the record for the fastest civilian aircraft in Europe away from the Germans. 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Representing a significant advancement in aviation technology compared to the biplane fighters which were still in widespread service during the mid 1930s, the Spitfire would go on to see service throughout the Second World War, undergoing constant development to keep it at the forefront of fighter design. Introduced as something of an interim design, the Mk.V would go on to be the most heavily produced variant of Spitfire and featured the more powerful Merlin 45 engine and highly advanced universal wing, which allowed different armament options to be fitted to the fighter with relative ease.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo further extend the pure enjoyment Airfix can bring to so many, these new simpler to build-and-paint Starter Sets are perfect for any beginner. This fantastic new model comes not only come with a more child-friendly build, but also a brilliant bespoke 'shadow-effect' stand to mount them on. 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