Airfix 1/72 Vickers Wellington Mk.IA/C Plastic Model Kit

The most capable medium bomber of the day was the twin-engine Vickers Wellington, which first flew in 1936 and entered RAF service with No.99 Squadron at Mildenhall in October 1938. The production aircraft bore little resemblance to the prototype aircraft and compared to contemporary medium bombers already in service, the Wellington appeared to be much more advanced in design and an aircraft feared by any potential enemy. Its sleek monoplane design and heavy defensive armament placed the new Wellington as one the advanced and capable medium bombers in the world.

Perhaps the most significant feature of the Wellingtons design was the adoption of a geodetic construction method, which was developed by famous British engineer and inventor Barnes Wallis. Duralumin W-beams were used to form a metal lattice-work construction on to which wooden battens would be screwed, which would then allow the doped fabric outer skin of the aircraft to be attached. 

The resultant fuselage was relatively light in weight but possessed great strength and whilst the method o construction posed challenged for companies engaged in manufacturing Wellington bombers, the inherent strength proved crucial when the aircraft was thrust into combat. 

Capable of withstanding significant battle damage, numerous RAF Wellingtons managed to bring their crews back home, when the other bombers would have failed to do so.

This remarkable 1:72 scale model of the Vickers Wellington Mk.IA/C captures the essence of one of the most sophisticated medium bombers of its time. Comprising 141 parts, it assembles into a detailed replica with a wingspan of 364mm. The twin-engine Wellington took its maiden flight in 1936 and joined the RAF with No.99 Squadron at Mildenhall in October 1938, marking a considerable advancement in bomber technology with its streamlined monoplane structure and substantial defensive weaponry., this skill level 3 kit allows you to construct one of two genuine World War Two liveries.

Key Features

• 141 components depicting the unique geodetic framework and streamlined monoplane form
• 1:72 scale model with a 364mm wingspan
• Includes two genuine World War Two liveries
• Skill level 3 kit
• Detailed portrayal of the twin-engine medium bomber layout
• Plastic model showcasing the Wellington's advanced characteristics

History

The Vickers Wellington was the leading medium bomber of its era, first taking flight in 1936 and joining the RAF with No.99 Squadron at Mildenhall in October 1938. The production model differed significantly from its prototype, and when compared to other medium bombers of the time, the Wellington was seen as more advanced and a formidable opponent. Its streamlined monoplane design and robust defensive armament established the Wellington as one of the most sophisticated and capable medium bombers globally.

A notable aspect of the Wellington's design was its use of a geodetic construction technique, pioneered by renowned British engineer and inventor Barnes Wallis. This involved using Duralumin W-beams to create a metal lattice structure, onto which wooden battens were affixed, allowing the doped fabric outer skin to be attached.

The resulting fuselage was both lightweight and exceptionally strong. Although this construction method posed challenges for manufacturers, the inherent strength was vital when the aircraft faced combat situations.

Able to endure substantial battle damage, many RAF Wellingtons successfully returned their crews home, when other bombers might not have managed.

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

Key Specifications

• Finish: Plastic
• Skill Level: 3

Full Specifications