Airfix 1/72 de Havilland Mosquito PR.XVI Plastic Model Kit

Without a doubt, the Mosquito's greatest attribute was its speed and even though it was developed as a high-speed, unarmed bomber, the sheer fact it could outpace fighter aircraft of the day made it an attractive proposition to those in the military charged with obtaining photographic intelligence of potential enemy targets.

It is interesting to note that the second Mosquito prototype aircraft to begin construction was a photo reconnaissance variant and indeed, the first Mosquito to be taken on charge by the RAF was a PR Mosquito, so vital was this work to the British war effort.

The months prior to the D-Day landings saw the introduction of the upgraded Mosquito PR Mk.XVI variant, an aircraft which was the most effective photo reconnaissance aircraft in the skies at that time. Able to fly higher, faster and for longer, these latest reconnaissance Mosquitoes could go anywhere and see everything and the Germans hated them. 

Specialist Luftwaffe units were established specifically to challenge Mosquito reconnaissance incursions, however, it wasn't until the introduction of rocket and jet-powered aircraft that they had much hope of success. Even then, Mosquito crews were well-versed in evading interception and continued to bring home their vital tactical imagery.

Contents:

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

This detailed 1:72 scale model of the de Havilland Mosquito PR.XVI represents one of the most successful photo reconnaissance aircraft from World War II. Comprising 142 parts and featuring a wingspan of 229mm, this level 2 kit provides modellers aged 8 and up with a rewarding project that honours the renowned speed and efficiency of this unarmed reconnaissance aircraft.

Key Features

• 1:72 scale model with 142 plastic parts
• Completed model has a wingspan of 229mm
• Includes two genuine paint schemes
• Skill level 2 -
• Depicts the enhanced PR Mk.XVI version introduced before D-Day

History

Undoubtedly, the Mosquito's most notable feature was its speed. Although designed as a swift, unarmed bomber, its ability to outrun contemporary fighter planes made it highly appealing to military personnel tasked with gathering photographic intelligence on potential enemy sites.

Interestingly, the second Mosquito prototype to be constructed was a photo reconnaissance model, and the first Mosquito received by the RAF was a PR variant, highlighting the critical importance of this role to the British war effort.

In the months leading up to the D-Day invasion, the advanced Mosquito PR Mk.XVI variant was introduced, becoming the most efficient photo reconnaissance aircraft of its era. Capable of flying higher, faster, and for extended periods, these reconnaissance Mosquitoes could explore any location and observe everything, much to the Germans' dismay.

Special Luftwaffe units were formed specifically to counter Mosquito reconnaissance missions, but it wasn't until the advent of rocket and jet-powered aircraft that they had any real chance of success. Even then, Mosquito crews were adept at avoiding interception, consistently returning with crucial tactical images.

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Key Specifications

• Finish: Plastic
• Skill Level: 2

Full Specifications