Gemini Aces GARAF1003
Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX Diecast Model
RAF No.315 (Polish) Sqn, Gabby Gabreski, RAF Northolt, England, January 1943
Limited Edition
| 1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX | | 5.25" | | 6.25" |
Francis ‘Gabby’ Gabreski is well known as the leading USAAF air ‘Ace’ in the European Theatre of Operations, with 28 air combat victories. All of Gabreski’s kills came whilst flying with the USAAF 56th Fighter Group, in the mighty P-47 Thunderbolt. He was also unusual in that he also flew combat missions with the RAF and not as part of the famous Eagle Squadrons! As his parents were Polish, Gabreski managed to convince 8th Air Force commanders that he should be allowed to gain combat experience with one of the RAF’s Polish squadrons, in advance of the arrival of American Units. Gabreski was assigned to No 315 (Polish) Squadron and flew this Spitfire Mk. IX (BS410) out of Northolt in early 1943.
The Supermarine Spitfire is arguably the most famous fighter aircraft of the Second World War. The type was in constant production throughout WWII and some 22,000 aircraft were built before the production ceased in the post war years. The Mark IX Spitfire was a thoroughbred fighting machine. Developed from the Spitfire Mk V variant, it was a direct response to the threat posed by the Luftwaffe’s new Focke Wulf FW 190A, which made a dramatic impact on the European Air War. So potent was this new German fighter that the RAF suspended operations over occupied Europe, as losses began to mount. The Spitfire Mk IX was more than a match for the FW 190 and became the Spitfire with which the RAF took to the offensive against Luftwaffe units in Northern Europe.
Designed by R.J.Michell to meet a British Air Ministry specification, the Supermarine Spitfire first flown on March 5th, 1936. With its combination of beautiful fighter design, the excellent performance of its Rolls-Royce Merlin powerplant and firepower provided by twin cannons and four machine guns, the Spitfire became an unrivaled symbol of victory. The Spitfire had 40 major variants and was built in greater numbers than any other British aircraft of the time. It flew operationally on every front between 1939 and 1945 and was engaged in every one of the Royal Air Force’s major actions.© Copyright 2003-2010 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Gemini Jets "GeminiAces" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft. Gemini Jets "GeminiAces" diecast airplanes feature:
- Diecast metal construction with minimal use of plastic components.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Detailed cockpit interiors.
- Selected moveable control surfaces.
- Optional extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels.
- Metal presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
- Authentic ordnance loads complete with placards.
- Photo-etched, spinning metal propellers.
- Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.
© Copyright 2003-2010 The Flying Mule, Inc.
