Airfix 1:72 Avro Lancaster B.III (Special) 'The Dambusters'

This remarkable 1:72 scale replica of the Avro Lancaster B.III (SPECIAL) 'THE DAMBUSTERS' embodies one of the most renowned aircraft from the Second World War. Comprising 267 components and boasting a wingspan of 432mm, this skill level 3 model kit provides an engaging project for modellers aged 8 and above, celebrating the legendary aircraft from Operation Chastise. With the choice of two distinct paint schemes, this plastic model kit enables you to recreate the specially adapted Lancaster bombers that participated in the daring assault on Germany's dams.

Key Features

• 1:72 scale model with 267 components for a captivating building experience
• Impressive 432mm wingspan showcases the Lancaster's formidable presence
• Skill level 3 model kit designed for modellers aged 8 years and older
• Two authentic paint schemes depicting aircraft from the renowned Dambusters mission
• Specially adapted Lancaster B.III variant featuring bomb bay details
• High-quality plastic construction with intricate surface textures
• World War Two era RAF aircraft representing a pivotal moment in aviation history

History

After a brief yet intense training period, the volunteer group of elite airmen forming the new RAF No.617 Squadron departed from RAF Scampton on the night of 16th/17th May 1943, marking the beginning of one of the most daring bombing raids ever.

Under the leadership of their charismatic and inspiring commanding officer Guy Gibson, he is known to have remarked, 'This squadron will either make history, or it will be completely wiped out', yet every man was resolute in playing his role in this historic mission. Nineteen 'Special' Lancasters and their crews delivered a message to the German nation that could not be concealed by their propaganda ministers.

The Lancaster B.III (SPECIAL) was uniquely modified for Operation Chastise, with its bomb bay doors removed to fit Barnes Wallis's innovative bouncing bomb. These alterations turned standard Lancasters into the precise tools needed for one of the war's most audacious raids, securing the aircraft's place in military aviation history.

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