Airfix 1/72 Blackburn Buccaneer S.2 Gulf War Plastic Model Kit

During RAF air operations in the Gulf War of 1991, the effectiveness of Iraqi anti-aircraft defences resulted in Tornado and Jaguar strike missions having to be flown at higher altitudes, thus reducing their effectiveness. 

They needed the support of the RAF's ageing Blackburn Buccaneer jets with their 'Pave Spike' laser designator equipment to deliver ‘smart’ munitions effectively, the only trouble was, these aircraft were back at their home base in Scotland. 

The race was on to prepare and fly twelve Buccaneers in newly applied 'Desert Camouflage' and their laser designator equipment to the Persian Gulf and in just a matter of days, the self-titled 'Sky Pirates' were on their way.

What's Inside

Plastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet and decals.

This intricately crafted 1:72 scale replica of the Blackburn Buccaneer S.2B showcases the aircraft in its unique Desert Camouflage pattern, as utilised during the 1991 Gulf War. Consisting of 141 components, this plastic model kit, offering a skill level 3 challenge. Once assembled, the model features a wingspan of 186mm and includes decals for two distinct paint schemes.

Key Features

• 1:72 scale model with 141 plastic components
• Completed wingspan measures 186mm
• Includes decals for two genuine Gulf War paint schemes
• Skill level 3 build
• Modern-era Blackburn Buccaneer S.2B version
• Desert Camouflage pattern as used during 1991 Gulf War missions

History

In the Gulf War of 1991, RAF air operations were hindered by the effectiveness of Iraqi anti-aircraft defences, forcing Tornado and Jaguar missions to operate at higher altitudes, which diminished their impact. To effectively deploy 'smart' munitions, the RAF relied on their older Blackburn Buccaneer jets equipped with 'Pave Spike' laser designators. However, these aircraft were stationed back in Scotland. A rapid effort was undertaken to ready and dispatch twelve Buccaneers, newly painted in 'Desert Camouflage', along with their laser equipment to the Persian Gulf. Within days, the self-proclaimed 'Sky Pirates' were en route.

BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc.

Key Specifications

• Finish: Plastic
• Skill Level: 3

Full Specifications