{"title":"GBR Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"airfix-a05143-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-tr-mk-ix","title":"Supermarine Spitfire TR Mk IX","description":"\u003cp\u003eWith so many airworthy two-seat Spitfires currently offering members of the public once-in-a-lifetime flight experience opportunities around the country, it’s interesting that every Spitfire T.9 started as a single-seat fighter, either a Mk.VIII or more commonly, a Mk.IX. Also, despite the Spitfire being arguably the most famous fighting aeroplane in history, with over 20,000 aircraft eventually produced, no official two-seat training variants were produced during the Second World War. A post-war phenomenon, the current fleet of Spitfire T.9s is helping to preserve the legacy of this magnificent aircraft.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234352398603,"sku":"A05143","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a05143-supermarine-spitfire-tr-mk-ix-1160787014.jpg?v=1749035657"},{"product_id":"airfix-a05144-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixe","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IXe","description":"\u003cp\u003eAs a thoroughbred fighting aeroplane, the basic airframe of the Supermarine Spitfire was capable of accepting successive modifications which saw this incredible aircraft remain in production throughout the entire Second World War. That adaptability allowed the Spitfire to be upgraded to meet the challenge posed by the latest Luftwaffe fighters, one which saw the Spitfire Mk.IX hurriedly introduced during the summer of 1942 to combat the dominance of the fearsome Focke Wulf FW190 ‘Butcher Bird’. This variant of the Spitfire has since been described as potentially the most effective ‘stop-gap’ fighter in the history of military aviation.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234352464139,"sku":"A05144","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a05144-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixe-1160787013.jpg?v=1749035654"},{"product_id":"airfix-a50192-1-72-d-day-fighters-gift-set","title":"D-Day Fighters [gift set]","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe importance of the role air power played in the months leading up to D-Day cannot be overstated, with the Allied powers knowing that securing superiority of the skies over the proposed landing beaches could be the difference between success and failure of the entire operation.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eThat being the case, Allied air forces were committed in ever-increasing numbers from the end of 1943, attacking airfields, supply infrastructure and other strategic targets, and mounting hundreds of diversionary attacks. This was all intended to keep German forces guessing as to the location of the anticipated invasion, but all the time diminishing their ability to respond to the landings when they came.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eWith so many Allied aircraft expected to be in the air supporting Operation Overlord, Allied Commanders were concerned about the possibility of their aircraft coming under attack from friendly forces both in the air and from anti-aircraft units on the ground.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eThey issued a directive that all aircraft (with some exceptions, including four-engined heavy bombers) be painted with identification markings around their wings and rear fuselage, under the strictest levels of security.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eThe order to begin applying markings to troop transport, aircraft was not issued until 3rd June 1944, with other units receiving their instructions the following day. This move placed additional pressure on airfield staff already working at maximum capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eOn D-Day itself, over 13,000 individual sorties were flown by Allied aircraft in support of the amphibious landings and although around 127 aircraft were lost for various reasons during those operations, it's thought that the adoption of invasion makings significantly reduced numbers succumbing to incidents of friendly fire on that momentous day.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough the Luftwaffe were conspicuous by their absence on D-Day itself, they fought tenaciously in the weeks and months which followed, highlighting the fact that they were far from finished.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51234356560139,"sku":"A50192","price":49.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a50192-d-day-fighters-gift-set.jpg?v=1749030958"},{"product_id":"eduard-8288-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixe","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IXe","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ProfiPACK edition kit of British fighter aircraft Spitfire Mk.IXe in 1\/48 scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe kit offers to build Spitfire Mark Nine serving in the RAF, Czechoslovak Air Foce and Israel Air Force.\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":51346106745099,"sku":"8288","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/eduard-8288-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixe-1160786112.jpg?v=1749027360"},{"product_id":"eduard-84183-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IXc","description":"\u003cp\u003eWeekend edition kit of British WWII single engine fighter plane Spitfire Mk.IXc in 1\/48 scale.\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":51346113626379,"sku":"84183","price":17.06,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/eduard-84183-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc-1160786080.jpg?v=1749027847"},{"product_id":"eduard-84199-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IXc","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Weekend edition kit of British fighter aircraft Spitfire Mk.IXc late in 1\/48 scale.\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":51346122014987,"sku":"84199","price":18.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/eduard-84199-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc.jpg?v=1748867820"},{"product_id":"eduard-7466-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IXc","description":"\u003cp\u003eWeekend edition kit of British WWII fighter aircraft Spitfire Mk.IXc in 1\/72 scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    No. of decal 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":51346127978763,"sku":"7466","price":11.66,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/eduard-7466-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc.jpg?v=1748867868"},{"product_id":"eduard-7473-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc-late","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IXc (late)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Weekend edition kit of British fighter aircraft Spitfire Mk.IXc late in 1\/72 scale.\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":51346129060107,"sku":"7473","price":11.68,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/eduard-7473-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc-late-1160786052.jpg?v=1749027614"},{"product_id":"tamiya-60319-1-32-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IXc","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe legendary Spitfire was the representative British fighter of WWII and many served with various air forces well into the 1950s. Among these was the Mk.IX, a variant powered by the Rolls-Royce Merlin 60 series engine which was developed to counter the Luftwaffe's Fw 190. Most of the Mk.IX aircraft came equipped with the C wing, two 20mm cannons, and four 7.7mm machine guns. The Mk.IXc, which was issued to units in July 1942, featured a top speed of 669.46 km\/h and had superior maneuverability. The Mk.IXc not only helped the RAF regain air superiority over the English Channel, but it was also the second most produced Spitfire variant with 5,500 built. They were the RAF's main fighter for the latter half of the war.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003e1\/32 scale plastic assembly kit of the Spitfire Mk.IXc. ★Overall Length: 302mm, Overall Width: 352mm. ★2 kinds of parts for top and bottom engine cowlings, wingtips, rudder, and elevators included. ★Features moveable ailerons. Flaps can be depicted in either up or down position. ★Comes with 3 kinds of markings including one to depict the aircraft piloted by RAF ace Johnnie Johnson.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tamiya","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51471829008651,"sku":"60319","price":107.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/tamiya-60319-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc.jpg?v=1749109965"},{"product_id":"italeri-2804-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ix","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Supermarine Spitfire is considered to be one of the most famous fighter aircraft in aviation history and an “icon” of British aeronautical production. The well-armed low-wing single-engine aircraft along  with the Hawker Hurricane, formed the backbone of the Royal Air Force fighter units engaged against  the German Luftwaffe during The Battle of Britain. The Spitfire’s success in the Battle helped to cement its status as an iconic aircraft. It was celebrated for its elliptical wing design and powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engine. During the war, in response to the technological innovations of the Luftwaffe that led to the development of the formidable Focke-Wulf Fw 190, the Spitfire itself was constantly evolved in its aerodynamic configuration and engine. The Spitfire Mk IX version was able to compete on equal terms with the most advanced German fighters of the period and was produced in sufficient numbers to meet operational needs.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Italeri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51771208106251,"sku":"2804","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/5bzVh3vNLfEHAdIgGXzQORKeZwycUUbUMsq1TTsT.jpg?v=1770762854"},{"product_id":"italeri-094-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ix","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Spitfire is certainly the most famous and best known fighter aircraft of World War II. Winning many dogfights of this conflict, the plane was first developed in the 1930s. It underwent a continuous evolution and improvement of its aerodynamic features as well as its engine and armament made it last with numerous airforces until after the appearance of the first jets.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Italeri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51481346769163,"sku":"094","price":9.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/italeri-094-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ix-1.jpg?v=1750697192"},{"product_id":"icm-48060-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc-beer-delivery","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IXC  ‘Beer Delivery’","description":"\u003cp\u003eOne of the most famous British WWII fighter aircraft was the Spitfire, developed by R. J. Mitchell.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe maiden flight was in March 5, 1936 Spitfire IX modification with more powerful Merlin 66 engine was in production in 1943-1945.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn the summer of 1944 Spitfire IX were the basis planes of British Fighter Command. They took part in the Overlord operation. They were also involved in special missions, in particular, the delivery of beer to the mainland for the advancing Allied forces.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ICM","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51497380446475,"sku":"48060","price":15.75,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/icm-48060-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc-beer-delivery-1.jpg?v=1751311066"},{"product_id":"icm-48061-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ix","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe British fighter Spitfire – one of the “flying legends” of World War II. The Spitfire Mk.IX modification has raised on base of the Mk.V in 1942 with the installation of the more potent engine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis airplane was reliable and easy in service and possessed excellent flight characteristics. The Mk.IX were used in the European theatre of WWII in many roles – as universal (F), low-altitude (LF) and high-altitude (HF) fighters, and as fighter-bombers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSpitfire Mk.IX were in service of RAF, USAAF, Air Forces of USSR, France, Italy, Czechoslovakia and some other states.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSpitfire Mk.VII fighters were built since August 1942. This modification has intended for intercepting high-altitude enemy aircraft and had a pressurized cabin and wing with extended tips.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ICM","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51497380610315,"sku":"48061","price":14.85,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/icm-48061-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ix-1.jpg?v=1751311069"},{"product_id":"icm-48066-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-lf-mk-ixe","title":"Supermarine Spitfire LF Mk IXE","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn 1943 began production of the Spitfire Mk.VIII modification with retractable tailwheel and increased range. These fighters served in the Mediterranean and Far East in USAAF and RAAF units.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSome Spitfire airplanes received American-built Packard Merline engines and designated as Spitfire Mk.XVI. Late-production aircraft had bubble-top canopies. Spitfires Mk.XVI were suited to low altitudes as fighters and fighter-bombers and were\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ICM","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51497382248715,"sku":"48066","price":14.85,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/icm-48066-supermarine-spitfire-lf-mk-ixe-1.jpg?v=1751311080"},{"product_id":"icm-48801-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ix-with-pilots-and-ground-staff","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX with Pilots and Ground Staff","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe set included model of Spitfire IX of the British ace Sqn. J. Plagis (15+2 victories) and seven figures – three pilots, three mechanics one WREN of WWII British Royal Air Force with dog figure and airfiel equipment.. ICM Spitfire IX kit is in the most precision copy of this aircraft in 1:48 scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe British figter Spitfire – one of the “flying legends” of World War II. The Spitfire Mk. IX modification has raised on base of the Mk. V in 1942 with the installation of the potent engine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis airplane was reliable and easy in service and possessed excellent fight characteristics. The Mk. IX planes were used in the European theatre of WWII in many roles – as universal (F), low-altitude (LF) and high-altitude (HF) fighters, and as fighter-bombers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSpitfire Mk. IX were in service with RAF, USAAF, Air Forces of USSR, France, Italy, Czechoslovakia and some other states.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ICM","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51497429205259,"sku":"48801","price":17.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/icm-48801-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ix-with-pilots-and-ground-staff-1.jpg?v=1751311519"},{"product_id":"icm-ds4802-1-48-wwii-raf-airfield","title":"WWII RAF Airfield","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe set includes Spitfire Mk. IX, Spitfire Mk.VII model kits and three pilots, three mechanics, one WAAF member of WWII British Royal Air Force with dog figure and airfield equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ICM","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51497431695627,"sku":"DS4802","price":26.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/icm-ds4802-wwii-raf-airfield-1.jpg?v=1751311557"},{"product_id":"revell-03927-1-32-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IXc","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpitfire Mk.IXC 1:32 Model Kit\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis Spitfire Mk.IXC model kit in 1:32 scale is a must for all fans of aircraft modeling! With an impressive part count of 154, this Level 5 set offers a detailed and realistic replica of the famous fighter plane. With a length of 300 mm and a wingspan of 351 mm, this model is a real eye-catcher in any collection.\u003cbr\u003e\nScope of delivery:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eDetailed Mk.IXc wings with cannons\u003cbr\u003e\n    Detailed cockpit including instrument board\u003cbr\u003e\n    High-quality replica radiators\u003cbr\u003e\n    Movable 4-blade propeller\u003cbr\u003e\n    Alternative bomb payload\u003cbr\u003e\n    Realistically designed landing gear\u003cbr\u003e\n    Authentic decals for two versions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSpecial features:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis model kit stands out for several special features. In addition to the detailed replica of the cockpit with instrument panel, it also offers an alternative bomb load, which makes it possible to customize the model. The authentic decals for two different versions of the Spitfire Mk.IXc provide the perfect finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor enthusiasts who have in-depth knowledge and skills in model making, this kit is the perfect challenge. The Spitfire Mk.IXc not only fulfilled the role of an interceptor, but was also used as a fighter-bomber for low attacks, which makes this model particularly interesting.\u003cbr\u003e\nBackground information:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Spitfire Mk.IXc is a legendary aircraft from the Second World War and is mainly associated with the Royal Air Force. She played a decisive role in the air battles and was appreciated for her maneuverability and speed. This model represents two versions, one from 1944 of the Royal Canadian Air Force in England and one from the same year of the Royal Air Force in Italy. For those who love history and model making, this kit is a perfect combination.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Revell","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51505308533003,"sku":"03927","price":35.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/revell-03927-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc.jpg?v=1749132556"},{"product_id":"italeri-1482-1-72-supermarine-spitfire-mk-v-mk-ix-wwii-aces","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk V \/ Mk IX ‘WWII Aces’","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Supermarine Spitfire fighter aircraft can undoubtedly be considered one of the most famous aeroplanes in the history of aviation and an icon of British aeronautical engineering. A single-engine, low-wing monoplane equipped with effective offensive armament, it formed—along with the Hawker Hurricane—the backbone of the Royal Air Force’s fighter units during the Battle of Britain against the German Luftwaffe. Throughout the war, in order to counter enemy technological advancements, the Spitfire underwent continuous development in both aerodynamic configuration and powerplant options. The Spitfire V, produced from 1941 and powered by the 1,440 hp Merlin engine, was widely distributed to operational units and later evolved into the Mk IX version. Flown by the most renowned aces of the British Royal Air Force, it achieved a significant number of aerial victories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eScale is 1:72\u003cbr\u003e\n    Size of the model is 13cm\u003cbr\u003e\n    Super decal sheet included\u003cbr\u003e\n    One model with two possible versions: Mk V and Mk IX\u003cbr\u003e\n    Decals for the most famous R.A.F. aces : James Edgar Johnson, Brendan “Paddy” Finucane (from Ireland), Jan Zumbach (from Poland), Russel Foskett (from Australia) George Buchanan (from South Africa)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Italeri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52550962643211,"sku":"1482","price":15.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/1482_01_3ada3d84-80c8-45e9-a5ec-06d809308f3b.jpg?v=1762807413"},{"product_id":"airfix-a17001a-1-24-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc-flying-dray","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IXc ‘Flying Dray’","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IXc kit in 1:24 scale includes all the parts you need to replicate the beer-carrying Spitfires, the ‘Flying Drays’.​​​​​​​ Build your own morale-boosting Second World War aircraft and create a lasting tribute to the heroes of war.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWe've also added in some additional resin parts, essential for enhancing the story of your model. These include two beer barrels with lids, two nose cones, two bomb racks and a slipper tank.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAnd every kit comes with an Airfix pint glass, so you can raise your own morale while modelling.\u003cbr\u003e\nHistory\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOver the years, various photographs and stories from pilots’ memoirs have emerged about Spitfires that carried beer barrels. Publications mention a special ‘Depth Charge Modification XXX’. After the D-Day landings, squadrons based at the forward airfields in northern France would send a pilot back across the Channel in a Spitfire to collect some beer or ale in barrels strapped under the wings on modified bomb racks.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eObviously, such sorties would have been deemed highly irregular by the RAF’s higher command, so the flights would not have been recorded as such in the pilot’s logbooks. Which leaves little official proof as to the exact details of these ad hoc deliveries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRecurring details relating to these escapades frequently turn up in various secondary sources. One example is the involvement of The Henty and Constable Brewery in Chichester and the nearby RAF Ford. To raise spirits, the story was also propagandised by the newspapers of the time, accompanied by some clearly staged photographs.\u003c\/p\u003e \n\n\u003cp\u003eSo, it’s difficult to determine the full and accurate story or whether the pilots claiming involvement in such missions were instead guilty of not letting the truth to get in the way of a good story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn the summer of 1944, after the D-Day landings, British troops pressing into Normandy faced fierce resistance—and a dry pint glass. Supplies were tight, and morale was vital. So, in one of the war’s most unexpected missions, Spitfire pilots took to the skies, not just with ammunition, but with beer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIngenious airmen modified drop tanks and strapped barrels beneath their wings, delivering much-needed refreshment to parched troops across the Channel. Some called it “Operation Cheers.” These weren’t official missions. They were flights of morale. Spitfires, symbols of British grit, became airborne drays for a brief, glorious period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt wasn’t about luxury. It was about home. A cold beer in a hot war zone was more than a drink—it was a reminder of what they were fighting for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSo, raise a glass to the RAF pilots who delivered courage, camaraderie, and casks, one flight at a time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBecause even heroes need a pint!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs part of this special release we've partnered with CAMRA.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e'CAMRA campaigns for pubs, pints and people, which includes celebrating our beer heritage and how that fits into the history of Great Britain. The story of the Spitfires and their ‘Flying Dray’ service to the front lines of D-Day is a brilliant example of that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAirfix’s Flying Dray Spitfire kit sounds like the perfect way for beer lovers to remember this unique piece of history' - CAMRA\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52765729194251,"sku":"A17001A","price":107.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/airfix-a17001a-1-24-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ixc-flying-dray_010.jpg?v=1765802344"},{"product_id":"italeri-2843-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ix-wwii-aces","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX ‘WWII Aces’","description":"\u003cp\u003ehe Supermarine Spitfire fighter can undoubtedly be considered one of the most famous aircraft in the history of aviation and an icon of British aeronautical production. A single-engine, low-wing aircraft equipped with effective offensive armament, it formed, in its early versions, together with the Hawker Hurricane, the backbone of the Royal Air Force fighter units during the Battle of Britain against the German Luftwaffe. Victory in the Battle of Britain helped to secure great prestige for the Spitfire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt was characterised by its harmonious design, elliptical wing, and powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engine. During the war, in order to respond to the technological innovations of its adversaries that led to the development of the formidable Focke-Wulf Fw 190, the Spitfire was continuously evolved in its aerodynamic configuration and engines. The Spitfire Mk IX then entered production and, thanks to its performance, was able to compete on equal terms with the most modern German fighters. Piloted by the most famous aces of the Royal Air Force, it achieved a significant number of aerial victories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eScale is 1:48\u003cbr\u003e\n    Size of the model is 20cm\u003cbr\u003e\n    Box size is 34.5cm x 24.2cm x 4.8cm\u003cbr\u003e\n    Super decal sheet with decals for the most famous RAF aces\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Italeri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52892854780171,"sku":"2843","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/2843_01_bbc5947a-2e2e-42d5-8fb9-8887f62c0987.jpg?v=1770762811"},{"product_id":"eduard-8282-1-48-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ix","title":"Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ProfiPACK edition kit of British WWII fighter aircraft Spitfire F Mk.IX in 1\/48 scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eplastic parts: Eduard\u003cbr\u003e\n    marking options: 5\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":53076838023435,"sku":"8282","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0777\/1809\/4091\/files\/8282_01_z2.jpg?v=1777314539"}],"url":"https:\/\/anglia-models.com\/de\/collections\/gbr-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ix.oembed","provider":"Anglia Models","version":"1.0","type":"link"}