Trumpter 1/48 Fairey Fulmar Mk.I kit TU05822

The Fairey Fulmar was a carrier-borne fighter aircraft that served primarily with the British Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm during World War II. The Fulmar Mk. I, the initial version of this aircraft, played a significant role during the early years of the war, especially in the Mediterranean Theatre.

Development and Design: -

• Manufacturer: Fairey Aviation Company.
• First Flight: 4 January 1937.
• Introduction: 1940.
• Role: Naval fighter and reconnaissance.

The Fulmar was developed in response to a 1936 Admiralty requirement for a two-seat aircraft with reconnaissance capabilities. It was based on the earlier Fairey P.4/34 light bomber prototype. The design was a compromise, as the Fleet Air Arm required an aircraft capable of navigation and surveillance over vast ocean areas, which led to the inclusion of a second crew member, usually a navigator.

Specifications (Fulmar Mk. I): -

• Crew: Two (pilot and observer/navigator).
• Powerplant: 1 × Rolls-Royce Merlin VIII 12-cylinder liquid-cooled engine.
• Speed: Maximum around 250 mph (400 km/h).
• Range: Approximately 780 miles (1,255 km).
• Armament: Equipped with eight .303 in (7.7 mm) Browning machine guns in the wings.

Operational History: -

The Fulmar saw extensive action in the Mediterranean, providing air cover for convoys, attacking enemy shipping, and performing reconnaissance missions.
It was involved in the Battle of Taranto and the hunt for the Bismarck. Though it was slower and less agile than single-seat fighters, its range and firepower benefited naval operations.

Legacy: -

• More advanced, single-seat fighters succeeded the Fulmar as the war progressed.
• A total of about 600 Fulmars were built, including both Mk. I and Mk.II variants.
• Despite its limitations, the Fulmar contributed significantly to the Royal Navy's air operations, particularly in protecting convoys and striking against enemy naval forces.

The Fairey Fulmar exemplifies the early war period's naval aviation challenges and the evolution of carrier-based aircraft requirements as the war progressed.

Model Kit Dimensions: -

• Number of Parts: 140
• Completed Model Wingspan: 24.14cm
• Completed Model Length: 22.31cm
• Model Scale: 1:48

What's Included?

• Unassembled Model Kit
• Decals Set
• Instructions Sheet
• Original Retail Box with Dimensions: Length: 30cm, Height: 20cm, Width: 7cm.

What's Not Included?

• Paints, Adhesive and Paintbrushes are NOT Included. (These are sold separately).

Additional items are required to complete kit as illustrated