Description

As the air war over occupied Europe..progressively developed, so did the equipment used by the RAF and its Bomber Command. Specialist vehicles were introduced to supply arms and equipment to waiting machines and maintenance tasks were made easier through the introduction of specialised equipment.

The mechanization of these tasks and duties is well represented in this set. While not as glamorous as their flying counterparts, the contribution played by trucks, tractors, and vans, as well as the men that crewed them, cannot be forgotten, or underestimated.

Contents:

• Standard Light Utility Vehicle - Standard 12hp 4x2 Tilly
• Bedford Truck build as either MWC or MWD
• David Brown VIG1 Tractor/Tug
• Motorcycle - 500CC
• Maintenance Tower
• Bowser - 450 Gallon
• Bomb Trolley - Type C
• Bomb Trolley - Type F
• Small Bomb Container (SBC) - with 4lb incendiaries
• MC Bomb - 1000lb
• Bomb - 8000lb
• Ladder
• Bike
• Chocks
• Fuel Cans

Airfix recommends the following Humbrol paints for this kit:

• 29Dark Earth14ml..
• 30Dark Green14ml..
• 33Black14ml..
• 56Aluminium14ml
• 60Scarlet14ml
• 64Light Grey14ml..
• 72Khaki Drill14ml..
• 110Natural Wood14ml..

This detailed 1:72 scale model set vividly depicts the crucial ground support activities of RAF Bomber Command during WWII. Comprising 197 pieces, this skill level 2 kit illustrates the mechanisation of airfield operations with an array of specialised vehicles such as trucks, tractors, and vans, along with the personnel who operated them. Highlighting the indispensable yet often overlooked role in bomber missions, this set showcases the equipment used for delivering arms, ammunition, and maintenance support to aircraft stationed across occupied Europe.

Key Features

• 197 pieces depicting various RAF ground support vehicles in 1:72 scale
• Features trucks, tractors, and vans for arms delivery and maintenance tasks
• Skill level 2 kit designed for modellers aged 8 years and older
• Genuine World War II RAF Bomber Command equipment and insignia
• Includes crew figures to animate airfield operations
• Part of the Royal Air Force collection

History

As the air campaign over occupied Europe intensified, RAF Bomber Command encountered the significant logistical task of maintaining its bomber fleet. The introduction of specialised ground vehicles revolutionised airfield operations, replacing manual labour with efficient mechanised processes.

These support vehicles were essential to the function of bomber stations across Britain. Austin trucks moved bombs and ammunition from storage to dispersal points, while Morris tractors transported aircraft between maintenance and operational areas. Refuelling vehicles, oxygen carts, and electrical starter units all contributed to preparing aircraft for missions.

The crews operating these vehicles worked tirelessly, often under challenging conditions. Armourers loaded vast amounts of explosives and incendiary bombs, while ground crews performed vital maintenance and repairs. During peak operations, rapid turnaround between missions was crucial, with ground staff working swiftly to ready aircraft for their next mission.

Although less celebrated than the aircrews, these ground support teams were vital to Bomber Command's success. Without their skill and commitment, the strategic bombing campaign could not have been maintained. From 1939 to 1945, these specialised vehicles and their operators ensured RAF bombers could continue their essential missions against enemy targets.

This set provides an authentic glimpse into the dynamic activity at a wartime bomber station, where the coordination of vehicles, equipment, and personnel was key to achieving victory.

Key Specifications

• Finish: Plastic
• Skill Level: 2

Full Specifications