Spitfire Mk.IXe F/O Johnnie Houlton
Made by Hobby Master this is a highly detailed diecast model that measures approximately 19.7cm long with a wingspan of 23.4cm
- Limited release: Yes
- Production: Limited only 500 units worldwide
- Scale: 1/48
- Includes stand: Yes
- Squadron: P485 (NZ) Squadron, France, Sept 1944
- Markings: RAF
- Interchangeable/retractable landing gear
- Pre-painted
- Pilot figure
- Pad applied markings.
- Fully assembled.
- Option to display model with wheels up or down.
- Minimum use of plastic
HISTORY:
- The Mk. IX replaced the Mk. V in June 1942
- On September 12, 1942 a Mk. IX brought down a Ju-86R flying at 43,000 feet
- Another major achievement of the Mk. IX took place on October 5, 1944 when 401 Squadron became the first allied aircraft to shoot down an Me-262 jet.
- Even with the arrival of the Griffon powered Mk. XIV the Mk. IX continued in service until the end of WWII
- There were 5,665 Mk. IX Spitfires and its variants produced.
In April 1944 Spitfire Mk. IXe ML407 was built at Castle Bromwich and delivered to the RNZAF 485 Squadron on April 29, 1944 based at ALG Selsey, Sussex. RNZAF 485 Squadron was the first New Zealand squadron to be formed and it was placed under RAF command. On D-Day this aircraft shot down the first enemy aircraft, a Ju-88 over Omaha Beach. The pilot was F/O Johnnie Houlton whose final tally was 7 kills and 4 damaged. In September 1944 the registration ML407 was added to the fuselage.
*When we have pre-orders we order number of models ordered by customers. We may carry a few extra pieces however once they are sold we do not expect any more stock.
**Please note that because of supply issues around the world Hobby Master has seen slight delays in delivery dates. We are commited to ensuring you receive a copy of this model**
***All purchases made by Flight Deck Models are in $USD so our online prices may fluctuate based on the exchange rate at the time. When pre-orders are paid for prior to models release date the price of the purchase is locked in with no changes.