1/72 Royal Swedish Air Force De Havilland Vampire J 28B (FB.50) F 15 (Hälsinge Air Force Wing) Söderhamn Air Base 28219 / Yellow I

In 1946, the Swedish Air Force purchased its first batch of 70 FB 1 Vampires, having been looking for a jet-powered fighter to replace the outdated SAAB 21 and J 22 aircraft of its fighter force. In Swedish service, the Vampire received the designation J 28A. In 1949, a total of 310 of the more modern FB.50s, designated J 28B were procured. The last of these was delivered in 1952, after which all piston-engined fighters were decommissioned. In 1956, the Swedish Vampires were retired from the fighter role and in 1968, the final Vampire trainer was retired.

Designed for the RAF as an experimental jet fighter, the de Havilland DH.100 Vampire was first flown on September 20, 1943. The Vampire was the second jet fighter to serve in the RAF, but it was introduced too late to see combat during WWII. It did, however, serve in front line squadrons until 1955, and it was used as a trainer for more than a decade afterwards. This important aircraft is notable for its many achievements; it was the first RAF fighter to exceed 500 mph, the first jet aircraft to cross the Atlantic, and the first jet to take off from and land on an aircraft carrier.

Features:

- Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.

- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.

- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.

- 1:72 Scale

- Length: 5.25"

- Width: 6.25"