This model
represents the Spitfire FR Mk XVIII as used by No 208 Squadron during
service in the Middle East, at the time of the Israeli War of Independence,
during the period 1947-1950. On 22 May 1948, 208's Spitfires did
shoot down several Egyptian Spitfires which attacked their base at Ramat David.
In January, 1949, all four Mk XVIIIs of a patrol by 208 were shot down by
Israeli anti-aircraft fire and Mk IX Spitfires which mistakenly thought
that they were Egyptian Spitfires attacking an Israeli convoy.
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images below to see larger images
The basic kit is the
Academy FR Mk XIV, improved and converted to the Mk XVIII, with the Ron's
Resins conversion kit and some bits from the Aeroclub Mk XIV/XVIII
set. The exhausts and bomb racks were from the Hasegawa
Spitfire Mk IX. Decals for this aircraft were from the Model
Alliance Decals sheet MA-48133.
All of the
aftermarket sets made a great improvement to the Academy kit, and this project
was a lot of fun.
Tom Milne
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images below to see larger images
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