AV7251002 - 1/72 PANAVIA TORNADO F3 ZG797 43 SQN RAF LEUCHERS FIGHTING COCKS

Only very recently retired from service, the Panavia Tornado was jointly developed and manufactured by Italy, the UK and Germany, and was operated by their respective air forces. The Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) became the only export customer.

The hugely popular and effective Tornado is depicted in F3 specification, wearing the 43 Squadron colours and markings of the real aircraft. The squadron was disbanded in July 2009 and the Tornado was the last type operated. The aircraft depicted is ZG797, as flown by Sqn Ldr A Dodds and Wg Cdr P Beach.

The model is a limited edition of 360 and comes complete with a very sturdy display stand, which slots very neatly into the rear nacelles and two slots at the rear of the fuselage on the underside. Once mounted, the model can be swivelled from side to side to allow for a variety of display angles.

It also features an opening cockpit, affording a superb view of the nicely-detailed cockpit interior, complete with miniatures of the two pilots. Additionally, both main wings can be angled backwards of forwards and the horizontal tail planes can be angled down to also reflect the range of movement on the real aircraft. There are also two small air brake panels just ahead of the tail that lift up for display if desired. A selection of ordnance options are supplied, for optional fitment, and there are additional parts to display the aircraft with either landing gear up, in 'in flight' mode, or deployed.

Released under the Aviation 72 Premium banner, the model is of the highest quality and features plenty of excellent detail and is beautifully finished all over, with excellent, crisp markings applied.