1:72 Spitfire Mk.VB „Aboukir“

Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb Aboukir 1:72 (Kovozavody Prostejov)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the legendary British Supermarine Spitfire fighter in the Mk.Vb version in 1:72 scale from the Czech manufacturer Kovozavody Prostejov. This boxing captures a machine with the prominent Aboukir desert (tropical) filter under the nose, which was used in the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean theaters. In the package you will find clear parts for the canopy glazing and decals for several marking variants.

The real subject

The Spitfire Mk.V was one of the most widespread versions of this iconic fighter of the Second World War. It was powered by the Rolls-Royce Merlin 45 V12 engine and the b variant carried mixed armament of cannon and machine guns in the wing. Machines deployed in Africa and the Mediterranean received bulky dust filters so that swirling sand would not destroy the engine in the desert environment. The improvised Aboukir type filter came about at an Egyptian base and became a recognition feature of a number of desert Spitfires.

Building and painting tips

Use a thin cement for plastic and work in subassemblies. Finish and paint the cockpit before closing up the fuselage; masking film or tape pays off for clean glazing. Apply a primer before painting and lay the paints down with an airbrush. On desert schemes you will appreciate fine sandy weathering on the leading edges and a discreet accenting of the panel lines.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of British fighters of the Second World War in 1:72 scale
• Fans of Spitfires and of the fighting in the Mediterranean and North Africa
• Modelers who will appreciate the less usual variant with the desert filter
• Builders looking for a Czech kit in a smaller scale

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.