1/72 scale decal markings.
This item is a DECAL Sheet. A model kit is NOT included.
On the morning of 30th August 1955, one of the oddest 'shoot downs' in the history of military aviation occurred; No 805 Squadron would be called upon to fire on an unusual 'enemy' in the skies over Sydney!
That morning, Mr Anthony Thrower hired an Auster J.4 Archer light aircraft registered VH-AET from Kingsford Smith Aviation Flying School. He had completed a short training flight when the aircraft's engine failed as he was coming in to land at Bankstown airfield. Having successfully landed, Mr. Thrower jumped out and swung the propeller (there was no self starter). Unfortunately, the Auster's brakes failed as the engine roared to life. Mr. Thrower made a brave attempt to board the aircraft as it gathered speed down the runway but was forced to jump clear and could only look on as the plane became airborne.
After circling Bankstown for about 15 minutes, the Auster began to climb and drift towards Sydney. It then crossed the coast and a nearby RAAF Wirraway had been called in with orders to dispatch the runaway when it was five miles off the coast. However, by that time both aircraft were at more than 10 000 feet. With temperatures approaching minus five degrees, the Wirraway's gunner hands were sticking to his hand-held Bren gun and he was unable to reload. An RAAF Meteor F.8 was called into the fray but its canons jammed after firing just a few rounds. The Auster, it seemed, was living a charmed life.
At around 11.35am, two Sea Furies from 805 Squadron arrived on the scene and Lieutenants John Bluett and Peter McNay, flying VW645 109/K and WZ650 107/K respectively, duly opened fire sending the 'little plane that could' into the sea approx 10 miles North east of Broken Bay.
Lt. Bluett was awarded the 'victory' and his aircraft, was marked with a yellow "Kill" symbol in front of the canopy. Both Sea Fury pilots were Royal Navy officers on duty with the RAN.
Excellent quality decal set includes sufficient codes, side numbers and national markings to complete the TWO Royal Australian Navy Sea Furies involved in the Auster Shoot-down.
The decals include the Auster kill marking, squadron badge and stencil markings.
Also included are four small PE parts to make the oblique PR cameras fitted to WZ650.
Instruction sheet with colour profiles.
Screen Printed.
Recommended for Ages: 14+
Suggested Kits; Airfix, AKI Resin, High Planes, Special Hobby, Trumpeter.
Also available in lesser fidelity kits by FROG/Novo, Pioneer, PM Model
Price: $22.95
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