1:72 Supermarine Attacker F.1,FB.2

Supermarine Attacker F.1/FB.2 (1:72, SabreKits)

This injection-molded plastic kit in 1:72 scale from SabreKits captures the early British Supermarine Attacker jet fighter in the F.1 and FB.2 versions. It is a short-run kit, which calls for more careful cleaning up of the parts and a more experienced hand; it has no pronounced locating pins. The box covers the pure F.1 fighter version as well as the FB.2 fighter-bomber, so you can choose the version according to the scheme you prefer. Clear cockpit parts and decals for several options are usually included.

The real subject

The Supermarine Attacker was one of the first jet fighters of British naval aviation (the Fleet Air Arm). It combined a new jet powerplant with a still conventional tailwheel undercarriage, which is its most conspicuous feature. The wing came from the design line of the late Spitfires and the Spiteful. The FB.2 version was the fighter-bomber variant with the Rolls-Royce Nene engine and modifications for carrying external stores. The Attacker represents the transitional era between piston and modern jet fighters.

Building and painting tips

With a short-run kit, check the fit of the parts dry and count on filling the seams. The tailwheel undercarriage gives the model its characteristic stance, so take care over the correct angle. Apply primer and paint with an airbrush; naval schemes tend to be in dark blue and silvery shades. Apply the decals over gloss varnish. Mask the cockpit and glue it on once the framing has been painted.

Who the model is for

• For collectors of early jet fighters and of British naval aviation.
• For modelers with experience of short-run kits.
• For fans of the transitional era between piston and jet.
• For builders in 1:72 scale.

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