Tamiya Spitfire MK.VB

The Supermarine Spitfire Vb was introduced into service in 1941 and represented the first of many major upgrades to maintain the fighter's ascendency over its adversaries, which, in this time frame, was primarily the Messerschmitt Bf109. Tamiya's rendition of the Spitfire Vb builds up into an impressive, highly detailed 1/48th scale replica with lots of interior and exterior detail. High quality water activated decals are included for three aircraft

The Supermarine Spitfire is regarded by many as the most beautifully designed single seat fighter to appear during the Second World War. Conceived by the renowned British designer Reginald J. Mitchell, the prototype first flew on 5 March 1936. It was an advanced, low wing monoplane with a very slim fuselage and smooth flush riveted metal skin.

The Mk I and II versions demonstrated their formidable performance during the "Battle of Britain", and by early 1941, the majority of fighter squadrons were furnished with this fighter. Improvements were suggested by the pilots and every effort was made to maintain its performance advantages over its opponents. Early improvements resulted in the Mk. V series of Spitfires which became the most widely produced version of all Mk's. The main improvement was the furnishing of three wing armament versions, and the use of the more powerful Merlin type 45 engine, and the "fishtail" flame damping exhaust stubs. The most numerous Mk.V was the "b" winged version with a mixed armament of two 7.7mm machine guns and one 20mm cannon in each wing.

• 1/48th scale plastic kit for static display
• Approximately 50 parts in medium grey and clear with fine recessed panel lines
• Spinner, armament, exhaust stubs
• Multi-part canopy may be posed open or closed
• Wheels have separate hubs for easy painting
• Highly detailed cockpit
• Instrument panel, seat, control stick and rudder pedals, bulkheads
• Sculpted pilot figure
• Separate, positionable cockpit door