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This attractive Marin B-26C-45-MO Marauder was a stand-out aircraft of the Second World War, with a unique nose art that deserves centre of attention in your die-cast display. Featuring a special bare metal multi-toned finish, this 1:72 scale model has an open bomb bay option and removable undercarriage. The propellers can rotate too. And of course, this die-cast aircraft comes with detailed crew figures and a stand for display. This die-cast model has a limited-edition run of only 1,500 units . History For an aircraft which initially attracted such unwanted nicknames as ‘Widow Maker’ and the ‘Flying Coffin’, and had training crews referring to it as, ‘One a day in Tampa Bay’ because of the high number of aircraft lost to crashes, the Martin B-26 Marauder actually posted the lowest loss rate of all USAAF bombers during the Second World War. A high-performance aircraft incorporating advanced technologies, the Marauder was a delight to fly but had some vices which could cause problems for the unwary and inexperienced. However, some design modifications and a revised training program soon improved the aircraft’s fortunes. After some time in Florida, the 444th Bomb Squadron were sent to England before completing their training program. They stayed for just over a month before being sent onwards with the rest of the 320th Bomb Group to North Africa and operations across the Mediterranean Theatre. The Group was awarded a Distinguished Unit Citation for pressing home an attack against Axis troop concentrations at Fondi, in support of the 5th Army’s push towards Rome, despite coming under heavy enemy anti-aircraft fire. This particular aircraft was one of the most flamboyantly decorated of all the 444th BS Marauders, with striking sharks’ teeth to put fear in the hearts of enemy fighter pilots, and beach belle artwork on both sides of the aircraft’s nose.

Top Gun Collectable Die-Cast Double Pack Two stunning aircraft flown by CAPT Pete "Maverick" Mitchell are the stars of this officially licensed movie die-cast double model pack! Over thirty years since graduating from the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School more popularly known as Top Gun Maverick is now an instructor training a new generation of pilots. At the school he pilots a striking blue and black liveried F18 Hornet, while in his downtime Maverick continues indulging his love of flight by taking to the skies in his own personal P51D Mustang. Wingspan: P-51: 90mm F-18: 80mm

The first-ever release of our 1:48 scale AV-8B Harrier II in die-cast, this incredible Aviation Archive model features a display stand, removable undercarriage, and multiple moving parts including a sliding canopy, rotating Pegasus Engine exhausts and even a spinning fan blade inside the aircraft. The livery pays tribute to a legendary US Marines Squadron. We’ve only made 1,500 of these limited-edition McDonnell Douglas AV-8B+ Harrier II die-cast models. History Serving members of US Marine Attack Squadron 214 have always been proud to uphold the traditions of a unit which was originally formed at Ewa Field in Hawaii on the 1st July 1942, and claimed celebrated ace pilot Major ‘PAPPY’ Boyington amongst their number. Boyington was significant for becoming the first fighter ace to eclipse the victory total of the famous Great War ‘Ace’ Eddie Rickenbacker. He also received the Medal of Honor, America’s highest military decoration. They were known as the ‘Black Sheep’ Squadron, because this new unit was made up of individual airmen seconded from other units right across the Pacific Theatre, with little support or resources, leaving members feeling like outcasts – a disparate group. What they lacked in support, they made up for in fighting prowess. The later history of this unit was marked by their long association with the McDonnell Douglas AV-8B plus Harrier II, an aircraft type they operated for 33 years. They only relinquished their aircraft when they exchanged them for the Fifth Generation Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II stealth jet in 2022. For the 75th anniversary of the formation of the ‘Black Sheep’, VMA-214 presented AV-8B Harrier II Plus 165001 ‘01’ in this striking special scheme, with the aircraft proudly carrying the name Maj. Gregory “PAPPY” Boyington on its starboard cockpit canopy framing.

Although the history of British aviation can boast many famous aeroplanes amongst its ranks, there can be few that were as visually striking as the mighty Phantom FG.1s of the Royal Navy, which operated from the diminutive deck of HMS Ark Royal. In the seconds prior to launch and whilst connected to the ship's steam catapult, the aircraft's nose wheel oleo would be extended to its maximum 40 inch position, giving the Phantom a distinct nose up attitude to increase the efficiency of engine thrust. With steam rising eerily from the ships deck, Navy Phantoms looked like a giant metal praying mantis, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice. With maximum afterburner selected and the engine power almost melting the ship's deck, the Phantom was finally released from its shackles and roared into the air such a spectacular experience for anyone lucky enough to see it. Although most of us will have only ever seen the operation of Ark Royal's Phantoms on video or in reference books, these iconic images left such an indelible impression that Britain's Rolls Royce Spey powered Phantoms have since become something of an enigma and still command huge enthusiast interest to this day.

In the years following the end of the Falklands War, Britain attempted to calm ongoing tensions by reducing the number of Phantom interceptors based on the Islands to just four aircraft. This development reduced the squadron to ‘Flight’ status and would herald its adoption of the famous ‘1435 Flight’ name and its heritage from the Second World War. Now having just four Phantoms to defend the Islands against the potential might of a combined Argentinean air threat, pilots and crew of No.1435 Flight called upon the glorious WWII heritage of this famous unit and established a South Atlantic aviation story which continues to this day. The long association between the Falkland Islands and RAF No.1435 Flight began on 1st November 1988, when No.23(F) Squadron back in the UK started to re-equip with the new Tornado F.3 interceptor. With their Falklands based detachment now reduced to just four Phantoms, the flight drew on its association with the siege of Malta during the Second World War and the defiant defence mounted by a small number of obsolete Gloster Sea Gladiator fighters of the Hal Far Fighter Flight. During her time with No.1435 Flight on the Falkland Islands, Phantom FGR.2 XV466 earned a reputation as one of the most attractively presented RAF jets of the post war era, with her white tail and large Maltese Cross cutting quite the figure as she helped to deter further conflict in this volatile region.

When it comes to RAF aircraft which have benefitted from the application of special commemorative schemes, there’s one machine which still enjoys legendary status amongst Britain’s army of aviation enthusiasts, Phantom FG.1 ‘Black Mike’. An aircraft which had recently transferred to the care of RAF No.111 Squadron at Leuchars, XV582 was selected to receive this unique scheme as the squadron wanted to mark both the RAF service of the Phantom, and the heritage of their famous unit, heritage which included the ‘Black Arrows’ Aerobatic Display Team. Between 1955 and 1960, this team flew aerobatic demonstrations in their gloss black painted Hawker Hunter jets at Airshows all over Britain, including the Farnborough show in 1958, where the team captured a world record by looping 22 Hunters in formation. In commemoration of this, XV582 was given this smart all-over gloss black scheme, initially for just a static ‘At Home’ Airshow appearance at Leuchars in 1989, but proved so popular that she exhausted her remaining airframe hours the following year as Treble One squadron’s display aircraft. Known as ‘Black Mike’ because of her colour and her squadron letter, XV582 became the aircraft every RAF pilot wanted to fly, but with her Airshow commitments and low remaining flying hours, only a fortunate few managed to do so. Making her final flight on 22nd September 1990, ‘Black Mike’ was retired to become a static star of many a Leuchars Airshow, but always retaining her iconic status with aviation enthusiasts.

This exceptional CORGI Aviation Archive 1:32 scale diecast model honours the legendary Hans Joachim Marseille, one of the Luftwaffe's most naturally gifted fighter pilots of the Second World War. Ready to display straight from the box, this meticulously crafted collectible captures the iconic Messerschmitt Bf 109F-4 (Trop) in authentic desert theatre markings, commemorating the aircraft flown by the 'Star of Africa' during his remarkable combat career. With precision detailing throughout, including rotating propeller and visible gun bay, this model brings history to life for the discerning aviation collector. Key Features Ready to display straight from the box Authentic 1:32 scale diecast construction Premium quality finish with historically accurate markings Rotating propeller and visible gun bay details Includes display stand for presentation History Of the 130 most successful air aces in history, all but one flew with the Luftwaffe during the Second World War, with an incredible 107 achieving 100 or more aerial victories. Among this elite group, one name stands above the rest according to his peers: Hans Joachim Marseille. Despite a troubled start to his career, marked by disciplinary issues and a playboy reputation, Marseille would become the highest scoring Luftwaffe ace not having fought on the Eastern Front. Deployed to North Africa, Marseille flourished under fighter leader Eduard Neumann, who recognised exceptional talent in the young pilot. With the desert offering none of his usual distractions, Marseille perfected the art of deflection shooting and became a master of aerial combat. His victory tally climbed rapidly, with multiple kills on single missions earning him the legendary title 'Star of Africa'. The Messerschmitt Bf 109F 'Friedrich' was his favoured mount, which he regarded as the perfect fighting machine. Between 24th August and 25th September 1942, he scored at least 49 victories in this aircraft type, including an extraordinary 17 kills in a single day, a feat that remains unmatched in aerial warfare history.

Although making an unremarkable start to his combat career during the Battle of Britain, Werner Schröer transfer to North Africa and air operations in support of the Afrika Korps would bring him a change in fortune and a steadily increasing victory tally which would eventually make him one of the Luftwaffe most successful pilots. By the time III./JG27 relocated to the Aegean Islands in late 1942, Schröer has 61 confirmed victories to his name, making him the second most successful Desert Eagle, with only the famous Hans-Joachim Marseille ahead of him. For a time, Schröer and the rest of 8./JG27 enjoyed great success flying fighter cover for strike aircraft targeting British shipping in the Mediterranean, but unfortunately, this success proved to be short-lived, as the Allies were now advancing on all fronts and their time of Rhodes soon came to an end. With Germany now coming under concerted bombing attack by day and night, as many fighters as could be spared were pulled back to defend the Reich from what was now becoming an increasingly desperate situation. Werner Schröer would survive the war with 114 aerial victories to his name, having flown just 197 operational missions. Of this number, 102 victories were achieved in combat on the Western Front against the most capable Allied aircraft and airmen, a figure which included 26 four-engined heavy bombers, as the German homeland itself came under concerted aerial attack.

With combat operations against the Royal Air Force during the Battle of Britain proving to be close to catastrophic for Luftwaffe Messerschmitt Bf 110 heavy fighter units, you could be forgiven for thinking that the months which followed the fighting over the UK to be a time spent licking wounds and making good losses. In actual fact, even though the Luftwaffe were at the advanced stages of testing a replacement twin engined design, combat operations from 1941 onwards would actually prove to be much better suited to the fighting strengths of Goering™s Destroyer force. With the ability to fly long patrols and possessing impressive firepower, the Bf 110 proved to be an excellent long range fighter, maritime patrol and light strike attack platform, ensuring the type would remain in service for the majority of WWII. When the Luftwaffe were forced to send aircraft to support faltering Italian Army operations in North Africa, the Messerschmitt Bf 110s of Zerst¶rergeschwader 26 were amongst the first to be sent to this theatre, tasked initially with providing fighter protection for Stuka units engaged in halting Allied ground advances. The aircraft™s desert deployment would also prove significant for another operational reason, its first use in a role at which it would prove to be incredibly successful, that of nightfighter. On the night of 22nd/23rd May 1941, the Messerschmitt Bf 110 fighter was first pressed into the night interception role over the desert.

Messerschmitt Bf 110F-2, LN+FR, 10(Z) Staffel, Zerstorergeschwader 5, Winter 1942/43, Eastern Front air operations The concept of the Luftwaffe's Heavy Fighter, or Destroyer, was very much championed by Commander-in-Chief Hermann Goering in the years leading up to the start of WWII as he felt that the extra range and firepower these aircraft offered would allow them to both protect strike aircraft and to act autonomously when released from protection duties. During the early months of Blitzkrieg, the Luftwaffe overwhelmed any aircraft attempting to oppose them. However, the Battle of Britain would prove to be a baptism of fire for their Destroyer squadrons. Despite this disappointment, the Heavy Fighter concept finally started to prove its worth once the Germans launched Operation Barbarossa, sending their forces against the hugely powerful yet still modernising Soviet Air Force. With the Bf 110 offering the reassurance of multi-engine operation and possessing the strength to carry additional fuel and ammunition, wide ranging sorties to protect German bombers, support ground troops or both could be undertaken, earning the aircraft a belated reputation as an effective fighter-bomber. Operating from Kirkenes airfield on the Norwegian border, the Bf 110s of 13.(Z)/JG5 flew fighter bomber sorties against shipping and ground targets around the Murmansk area. Their aircraft carried their unit's distinctive emblem of a Dachshund with a Soviet Polikarpov fighter in its mouth, clearly a reference to the early months of Eastern Front operations and their 'Happy Time'. By the time the Germans had embarked on Operation Barbarossa and their ferocious strike against the Soviet Union, the now much maligned Messerschmitt Bf 110 Zerstorer had to suffer the ignominy of being relegated to the designation of a low priority production type. This was partly due to its poor showing against the Royal Air Force during the Battle of Britain, but also because its replacement was now at an advanced stage of development. The new Messerschmitt Me 210 was intended to be everything Goering had hoped for in his original heavy fighter program- a Bf 110 with all its shortcomings addressed. Unfortunately, this class of aircraft was one the Germans really seemed to struggle with and the Me 210 would be beset with constant delays caused by never ending technical and development issues, so much so that the original Messerschmitt Bf 110 would actually undergo three further major variant upgrades itself and remain in service throughout the rest of the war. Indeed, the aircraft would actually serve alongside both of the aircraft which were intended to replace it, the disappointing Me 210 and the much more capable Me 410. Even though just under 6,200 Messerschmitt Bf 110 Destroyers were eventually built, it is generally accepted that the aircraft which served as radar equipped nightfighters were the most effective variants of the type.

This distinctive Messerschmitt Bf 109E fighter from Nachtjagdgeschwader 1 was equipped with a Telefunken designed Peil Gerat IV electronic radio direction finder unit, one of the first airborne interception units of its kind to be fitted in a Luftwaffe nightfighter. More of an onboard direction indicator than an actual interception radar unit, the Peil G IV featured the installation of a new cockpit indicator display which required the pilot to keep a needle coated in luminous paint in the centre of the display and he knew that if he kept the needle in this central location, his aircraft was heading for the transmitting aircraft detected. Although still relatively primitive, this system allowed the pilot to fly his aircraft and effect the interception, as opposed to being preoccupied with constantly checking his course, something which greatly helped pilots of single seat fighters. Although actually not all that effective in operation, the Peil Gerat IV unit would provide valuable research data for use in future projects, which would eventually lead to the introduction of much more capable systems. In the specialised role of night interceptions, single seat Luftwaffe fighters were not particularly suitable for the task, as their lack of range/loitering capability and the sheer workload placed on the pilot were both significant limiting factors and it didn't take long before the larger twin engined Messerschmitt Bf 110 and Junkers Ju88 aircraft were assigned to this role.

Messerschmitt Bf 109E-7/B Blue H Triangle, II./Schlachtgeschwader 1, Stalingrad, Luftwaffe Ground Support Jabo, Winter 1942/43 As one of the most famous fighting aeroplanes in the history of warfare, the Messerschmitt Bf 109 series is synonymous with Luftwaffe operations during the Second World War and indeed was both constantly upgraded and in constant production for the entirety of the conflict. In fact, the ground-breaking Bf 109 was already in service at a time when most of the world’s major air forces still had biplane designs as their front line fighters and incredibly, later variants of the aircraft were still in service at the advent of the jet age. The ‘E or Emil’ variant of the Messerschmitt Bf 109 was the second most numerous version of the fighter to be produced and the one which served extensively throughout the Battle of Britain and during the massive aerial battles of Operation Barbarossa, the German invasion of the Soviet Union. This conflict would extend far beyond the six months of Barbarossa itself and descend into a bloody attractional war over vast areas of territory and become a significant turning point in the outcome of the Second World War. During the savage fighting around Stalingrad in late 1942, early 1943, some of these older variants of Bf 109 were adapted to fly close air support missions, acting like high speed dive bombers in support of ground troops who were encountering particularly stubborn areas of Soviet resistance. These ground attack Messerschmitts proved incredibly effective, even though the inexorable tide of incessant Soviet offensives had already dictated the outcome of this struggle.

Messerschmitt Bf 109G-6 Black Double Chevron 'Mickey Mouse', Hptm. Horst Carganico, CO II./JG 5, Pskow South Airfield, Soviet Union, Early 1944 Born in Silesia in October 1917, Horst Carganico was already a pilot with Jagdgeschwader 1 at the outbreak of WWII and would see his first combat action against the RAF whilst flying from Luftwaffe bases in Norway. Despite this, it would be on the Eastern Front where Carganico would have his greatest success as a fighter pilot, taking an active part in Operation Barbarossa and claiming at least 20 aerial victories by the end of September 1941. In the six weeks from the beginning of April 1942, he would go on a scoring run which would see him claiming a further 23 victories, but as Soviet fighter effectiveness began to improve steadily during the year, he would not have everything his own way. On two separate occasions, he would be brought down over Soviet territory following combat with the VVS (Soviet Air Force), luckily managing to evade capture and return to his unit both times. Carganico was known for adding his personal ‘Mickey Mouse’ emblem to the majority of the Messerschmitt fighters he flew, including the rather elaborate example which adorned this II./JG.5 machine, which surely made this one of the most distinctive fighters on the Eastern Front. He would survive the savage fighting in the East only to be killed in May 1944 whilst engaged in combat with USAAF fighters over Saint-Dizier - attempting a forced landing in his damaged aircraft, the fighter struck high tension cables and crashed. Carganico posted an impressive combat record of 60 confirmed victories from a total mission count of around 600 sorties, mainly on the Eastern Front.

Messerschmitt Bf110D VJ+OQ, Rudolf Hess, Eaglesham, Scotland, 10th May 1941 One of the most mysterious episodes of the Second World War occurred over Northern Britain on the night of Saturday 10th May 1941, as the Chain Home radar network picked up an unidentified raid approaching the coast of Northumberland. Crossing the coast near Alnwick, the Royal Observer Corps identified the raid as a single Messerschmitt Me110 fighter which continued flying inland in the direction of Glasgow and was tracked until it hit the west coast of Scotland. With a Defiant nightfighter now on its tail and with fuel reserves running low, the intruder was seen to turn back inland, before crashing at Bonnyton Moor, Eaglesham, near Glasgow at 23.09pm. The lone pilot was observed parachuting to earth and was promptly detained by a pitchfork toting farmer, who when inquiring if the airman was German, was surprised by the excellent English of his prisoner, who went on to give his name as Hauptmann Albert Horn. Collected by the Home Guard, the prisoner was later interviewed by an Observer Corps Major, who almost immediately recognised the airman as none other than Rudolf Hess, senior Nazi Party official and Deputy Fuhrer of Germany. Why had such an important political figure made such a hazardous, one-way flight and what were his intentions? Taking off from the Messerschmitt factory airfield at Augsburg-Haunstetten in Bavaria at 17.45 UK time on 10th May 1941, Nazi Party official Rudolf Hess had a long and daous flight ahead of him. Even though his unarmed Me110 fighter was carrying additional fuel, this was always going to be a one-way flight and it is unclear what his intentions were surely, capture by the British would be the best possible outcome. During later interrogation, it is reported that Hess planned to land by parachute on the estate of Scottish nobleman, the Duke of Hamilton, a man he had previously met at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin and someone thought to be politically influential in trying to muster support for a negotiated peace with Germany. A fascinating incident which has been the subject of a great many conspiracy theories over the years, Hess's true intentions have never been definitively ascertained. However, the flight did coincide with Germany's decision to launch a massive offensive against the Soviet Union, in addition to Hess being somewhat side-lined in the Nazi Party hierarchy. Hitler was reported to have been enraged on hearing about the actions of his trusted deputy and described him as having lost his mind. This incident did highlight the invaluable contribution of the Royal Observer Corps during WWII, as once a hostile aircraft had reached the British mainland, radar was of no use and tracking information was provided by this impressive network of vigilant volunteers.

The Battle of Britain had proved to be a chastening experience for the Messerschmitt Bf110 heavy fighter units of the Luftwaffe, but despite their disappointing performance against the fighters of the RAF, Messerschmitt fighting twin would go on to perform effectively in other theatres. Seeing extensive service on the Eastern Front, North Africa and the Mediterranean, the extra range and firepower possessed by the Bf 110 helped it to live up to its pre-war reputation, especially when not facing effective fighter opposition. It would however, be night operations against RAF Bomber Command which proved to be the aircraft's most suited operating environment, especially when equipped with the latest air interception radar equipment available to the Luftwaffe. With many of the world's most successful nightfighter aces perfecting their skills whilst flying the Bf 110, this would become an important aircraft in the nocturnal struggle against the hundreds of RAF bombers crossing the coast of Northern Europe each night. This sinister looking all-black Nachtjagdgeschwader 1 Messerschmitt Bf110E is equipped with the early FuG 202 Lichtenstein B/C air interception radar, which was introduced during 1942 and featured the complex Matratze aerial antenna array on the nose of the aircraft. The radar operator in the rear cockpit would use a pair of oscilloscopes to help him direct his pilot to a possible interception.

This 1:72 scale CORGI Aviation Archive diecast model represents one of the most advanced combat aircraft of the Second World War, the Messerschmitt Me 262A-2a 'Blitz Bomber', making it an exceptional addition for any serious aviation collector. Despite being championed by Hitler as a high-speed bomber to attack strategic Allied positions, this revolutionary jet proved far more effective as a fighter than in its designated bombing role. This premium diecast model captures the distinctive profile of this groundbreaking aircraft in authentic detail, ready to display straight from the box. Key Features Ready to display - no assembly required Authentic 1:72 scale diecast construction Historically accurate 'Blitz Bomber' markings from 1944 Premium metal construction with painted finish Includes display stand History The Messerschmitt Me 262 was unquestionably the most advanced combat aircraft of the Second World War, representing a quantum leap in aviation technology as the world's first operational jet-powered fighter. However, Hitler's insistence on deploying these revolutionary aircraft as 'Blitz Bombers' diverted them from their true strength - intercepting Allied bomber formations that were devastating German cities daily. Following the Allied capture of vital bridges over the River Waal in the Netherlands during September 1944, the Germans made desperate attempts to destroy the Waal Bridge at Nijmegen using every weapon at their disposal. Recognising the strategic importance of these crossings, Hitler ordered the bridges destroyed at all costs and allocated his prized Me 262 'Blitz Bombers' to the mission, believing their incredible speed would guarantee success. Unfortunately for the Luftwaffe pilots, the Allies anticipated the assault and established a formidable anti-aircraft 'ring of steel' around the bridges. This defensive network proved devastatingly effective, shooting down almost every aircraft sent against the target. This particular 'Blitz Bomber' participated in the autumn 1944 attacks on the Waal bridge but failed to deliver a decisive strike, hampered by both intense defensive fire and the Me 262's general unsuitability as an accurate strike bomber. The aircraft's incredible speed, whilst an asset in fighter operations, made precision bombing extremely difficult, highlighting the folly of misusing this extraordinary machine.

This impressive CORGI Aviation Archive 1:72 scale diecast model brings the formidable Messerschmitt Me 410A-1/U3 Hornisse to life for passionate collectors and aviation enthusiasts. Ready to display straight from the box, this meticulously crafted model captures the powerful twin-engine heavy fighter in authentic markings commemorating Hauptmann Eduard Tratt, the most successful Zerstörer Ace of the Second World War. Finished in accurate grey livery with rotating propellers, this detailed replica represents one of the Luftwaffe's most heavily armed interceptors from 1943. Key Features Ready to display straight from the box - no assembly required Authentic 1:72 scale diecast construction Rotating propellers for added realism Accurate grey paint scheme and period markings Includes display stand History Despite a troubled development that delayed its entry into service, the Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse emerged as an exceptional combat aircraft, combining considerable power with impressive operational range and devastating firepower. The Hornisse could mount an extraordinary array of weaponry, its configurable under-nose weapons bay supplemented by external armaments made it particularly lethal against the massive Allied bomber streams that penetrated deep into German

This newly tooled Messerschmitt Me 410A-1/U4 is the perfect addition to your Axis collection of Second World War aircraft. The first release of this die-cast model features the Bk-5 auto-cannon armament on the nose. The undercarriage is removable, and the propellers rotate on this 1:72 scale model. There are also detailed crew figures and a display stand in the box. This die-cast model has a limited -edition run of only 1,500 units History The culmination of Germany’s vaunted ‘Destroyer’ concept, the Messerschmitt Me 410 was the intended successor of the Messerschmitt Bf 110 heavy fighter. Despite entering service almost two years late, it was arguably the Luftwaffe aircraft which most closely matched Britain’s magnificent de Havilland Mosquito in terms of role and performance. Unquestionably one of the most interesting aircraft of the Second World War in appearance, the Me 410 was a true multi-role aircraft and could be adapted to perform a number of offensive roles, including that of heavy bomber killer. Equipped with the mighty Rheinmetall manufactured BK-5 autocannon which protruded from the nose of the fighter, this weapon was a development of the 50mm Kampfwagenkanone anti-tank gun found in Panzer III tanks. With 21 shells housed in a magazine in the weapons bay of the fighter and a shell already loaded in the breach ready to fire, the pilot could usually only rely on one round being fired, before this temperamental system jammed, leaving just reduced standard armament to be used during the sortie. A single, well-aimed shell did possess the destructive power to easily bring down an Allied bomber and could be fired at ranges where the attacking Luftwaffe aircraft were effectively impervious to the wall of return fire put up by the bomber stream. However, the additional weight and drag caused by using this powerful gun made the Me 410 incredibly vulnerable to marauding Allied fighters.

This magnificent 1:72 scale Messerschmitt Me109E-4/B is a perfect replica of the one flown by Oberleutnant Walter Rupp. This bold yellow and green model features detailed crew figures, rotatable propellers and a replica bomb underneath the aircraft. Of course, it also has a stand for display. This die-cast model has a limited-edition run of 908 items. History As one of the finest fighting aeroplanes ever, the Messerschmitt Bf 109 became the backbone of Germany’s Air Force throughout the Second World War, and despite its diminutive stature, was also arguably the world’s first operational fighter-bomber, or Jabo. Carrying a single under-fuselage-mounted 250kg bomb, they delivered their weapon using the fighter’s Revi gunsight, usually from a shallow dive and often with surprisingly accurate results. However, not all such missions ended with the safe return of the pilot and aircraft. Taking off from Le Touquet airfield on 17th October 1940 in the hands of Oberleutnant Walter Rupp, this Jabo joined around 40 other Bf 109s for a patrol over the English Channel, but was later attacked by RAF Spitfires over Gravesend at high altitude. The Messerschmitt took a bullet strike to the radiator, and with the engine temperature rising rapidly, the pilot had no option but to look for a suitable field to bring his aircraft down in. That field was on the outskirts of RAF Manston, with the pilot managing to perform a textbook emergency landing, with his aircraft only sustaining superficial damage. Rupp was immediately taken prisoner, and his aircraft was subsequently recovered and taken to RAE Farnborough for evaluation. It was later placed on public display as a war prize in several locations around Britain.

Messerschmitt Me109G-6 (Trop), Maggiore Antonio Vizzotto, Regia Aeronautica, 150 Gruppo, Sicily, July 1943. Just as the famous Fokker Eindecker had previously done during the Great War, the Messerschmitt Bf 109 would re-define aerial warfare and was an aircraft which was intended to dominate the sky. An aircraft which incorporated all the latest technological developments the aviation world had to offer, this project may have advanced as a lightweight monoplane fighter, but possessed the one attribute all hunting aeroplanes needed, and that was great speed. Produced in response to a Reich Aviation Ministry requirement for an advanced single-seat fighter aircraft, the design submitted by Bayerische Flugzeugwerke was radical in the extreme, diminutive and lightweight in construction and utilising the most powerful in-line aero engines in development in Germany at that time. Taking much of its design inspiration from the successful Messerschmitt Bf108 Taifun four-seat sports touring aircraft which preceded it, the Bf 109 was a relatively small, yet powerful monoplane fighter, one which was incredibly fast, heavily armed and highly manoeuvrable. At a time when the world's major air forces were mainly equipped with biplane designs for their front line fighter force, you might think that German pilots were desperate to get their hands on an aircraft which was so advanced that it was at the very forefront of world aviation, but that didn't initially prove to be the case. As they were used to slower, highly manoeuvrable aircraft with open cockpits, the enclosed cockpit of the Messerschmitt Bf 109 must have been more than a little claustrophobic for them, however, they soon warmed to the many impressive qualities of this aviation phenomenon, an aircraft which would allow them to dominate the skies. Interestingly, due to the advanced nature of the design and the fact that the new German built powerplants were not ready, the prototype aircraft was actually powered by a British Rolls Royce Kestrel engine, something of a strange dichotomy for a fighter which would go on to become the scourge of the Royal Air Force. Proving successful during flight trials with competing rival aircraft from other famous German aircraft manufacturers, the Messerschmitt Bf 109 would eventually enter service in 1937, a time where it's interesting to note that the Royal Air Force were just withdrawing their Bristol Bulldog biplane fighter from service and introducing the Gloster Gladiator, with the Luftwaffe clearly holding a significant technological advantage at that time. Nevertheless, even in Britain, the winds of aviation change were blowing and both the Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire were already in development. The Messerschmitt Bf 109 would go on to become something of an aviation legend, in manufacture throughout the Second World War and eventually produced in greater quantities than any other fighter aircraft in history. In expert hands, the Bf 109 was a capable adversary until the very last days of the war and as a consequence, would be flown by many of the world's most prolific air aces at times during their service careers. The fighter would also see service with several other European nations during WWII, including Finland, Hungary and notably with Italy's Regia Aeronautica. Just as was the case with its traditional adversary the Spitfire, the name Messerschmitt came to be used in common parlance to refer to any enemy aircraft seen encroaching in British skies. As the Regia Aeronautica came under increasing pressure from ever greater numbers of Allied aircraft in the Mediterranean Theatre, aircraft combat losses soon began to outstrip the rate at which these losses could be replenished by their ailing aircraft industry. The Italians had already been using German engines to power some of their fighters, however, this was still not enough and if the Germans wanted Italian forces to continue fighting the Allies, a more radical solution would be required. At a time when the Luftwaffe needed every fighter it could muster, it was decided that new Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighters would be supplied to the Italians, with aircraft taken straight from the production lines, a combination of F-4, G4 and G6 variants. As such, the aircraft were delivered in standard factory applied finishes, complete with Luftwaffe markings, which clearly required some work before they could be committed to combat. German national insignia was painted out using the closest Italian paint shades available and whilst most existing camouflage was retained, any future modification would be done using standard Regia Aeronautica paint stocks. Italian national insignia and theatre markings were applied, but this was still very much the most famous Axis aircraft in the skies, just under new ownership. The Messerschmitt Bf 109G variant was undoubtedly superior to the Italian fighter types pilots had been flying previously, however, they were familiar with their Macchi 202 and 205 fighters, something which would have been crucial to them in a combat situation. Whether it was down to a lack of effective conversion or the fact that Allied air forces were becoming stronger by the day at that stage of the war, the use of Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighters by Italian pilots did little to change Axis fortunes in the Mediterranean and proved to be little more than an interesting footnote of the conflict. Hunted by Allied aircraft whilst in the air and on the ground, Regia Aeronautica use of the Messerschmitt Bf 109 was effectively nothing more than symbolic, despite the best efforts of their brave and tenacious pilots. By the time No.150º Gruppo was withdrawn from Sicily back to Ciampino near Rome, they only had three serviceable Messerschmitt Bf 109G fighters available to make the flight. One of the leading figures within the Regia Aeronautica during the Second World War, Antonio Vizzotto may not have appeared amongst the list of most successful Italian air aces of the WWII, however, he was a skilled and brave pilot, exceptional leader of men and arguably the most decorated Italian airman of that period. Involved in some of the most successful early war operations by Italian air units, Vizzotto would become an inspiration to fellow pilots and his countrymen alike, gaining regular promotions and viewed as something of a national hero. With the rank of Maggiore, Vizzotto was given command of No.150º Gruppo, a fighter group which comprised Nos 363a, 364a and 365a Squadriglia and as Italian forced headed for North Africa, Vizzotto and his units were requested to join the operation by Italian ground units who were aware of the unit's reputation for success in aerial combat. Despite scoring several notable early successes, the increasing strength of Allied air power in the region gradually eroded any chance of victory and even when the unit traded their Macchi C.202 fighters for German Messerschmitt Bf 109Gs during the spring of 1943, it was only a matter of time before the Allies secured a hard fought superiority in the air. In April 1943, No. 150º Gruppo under the command of Maggiore Antonio Vizzotto were the first unit to re-equip with German Messerschmitt Bf 109G fighters and subsequently committed to combat, operating from both Santo Pietro and Sciacca airfields on Sicily. Soon facing the might of the Allied forces during Operation Husky and the invasion of Sicily, they were unable to either post telling air combat successes, or prevent the fall of Sicily and would be reduced to fighting defensive, retreating actions for the remainder of the war. The 'Gigi Tre Osei' emblem adopted by 150º Gruppo was related to Italian celebrity pilot and Olympic gliding champion Luigi Caneppele, a highly decorated airman and national hero who was lost whilst serving on operations during the North African campaign. In his honour, the emblem of the Italian gliding association licence (three stylised soaring eagles) was modified to include a North African oasis scene and included the 'GIGI TRE OSEI' wording, a tribute 150º Gruppo pilots proudly took into combat against Allied air forces. The distinctive Messerschmitt Bf 109G-6 fighter presented here was the mount of Maggiore Antonio Vizzotto in actions during the Allied invasion of Sicily, where Regia Aeronautica pilots faced overwhelming odds in the face of the Allied onslaught. A beautifully unusual presentation of a wartime Bf 109G fighter, this aircraft retains most of its factory applied Luftwaffe camouflage, with German national insignia mostly painted out and new Regia Aeronautica and theatre markings added, with the rear fuselage also benefitting from a coat of Italian Verde Oliva Scuro paint. Adding weight, but also much needed additional firepower, Vizzotto's aircraft was also fitted with under-wing cannon gondolas, each complete with 120 rounds of ammunition.

One of the most interesting engagements involving a Messerschmitt Me 262 jet fighter during WWII occurred on 10th April 1945, when pilot Lt Walther Hagenah and his wingman were ordered to intercept a heavy raid of USAAF bombers attacking an area north of Berlin. Knowing they would be massively outnumbered by Allied aircraft, the pair intended to attack the formation at high speed, using cannon and their underwing mounted R4M unguided rocket projectiles to break up the formation and spread confusion. With the mighty bomber stream in sight, Hagenah noticed a flight of six American P-51D Mustangs above them, which immediately dropped their external fuel tanks as they dived in to attack. Hagenah's experience told him that if he turned to face them, or made any violent evasive manoeuvre, the speed of the Mustangs would soon bring him into their gunsights, so instead, he pushed the throttles to full power and began a gentle dive towards the ground, but crucially, not changing heading. His wingman decided to take a different course of action, turning to face the Mustangs and immediately being enveloped in a hail of .50 calibre bullets. With his own jet now at full speed, Hagenah expertly positioned his Messerschmitt for an attack on the American fighters, opening up on them with everything he had, including ripple-firing his R4M rockets at the enemy fighter formation.